Top 8 Places To Visit Near Shimoga For A Fun Trip

Shimoga, also known as Shivamogga, is located in Karnataka, a place with green forests and hills. There are great places to visit near Shimoga for a memorable time with your loved ones in Karnataka. Majestic waterfalls and natural landscapes will make you happy internally. This place will provide you with a great break from your monotonous life. The delectable local cuisine must be relished on your vacation to Karnataka. It is a great place for nature lovers to visit the region.

Top 8 Places To Visit Near Shimoga

1. Hebbe Falls

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Hebbe Falls is a beautiful attractions near Shimoga and has lush greenery of the Western Ghats around it. This fall is known for its height which is about 550 feet and is divided into upper falls and lower falls. The surrounding nature has a rich flora which makes it an ideal spot for nature lovers to visit. It is easily accessible and is ideal for picnics. You can visit from June to September as it is a lovely spot to explore.

Distance From Shimoga: 75 km

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Shivanasamudra Falls To Experience Serenity

2. Kudremukh National Park

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Kudremukh National Park is also a protected area in the western ghats and has a lush green landscape. The area is about 600 km² and has endangered species of lion-tailed macaque and the Malabar grey hornbill. There are several trekking roads for adventure enthusiasts. You can visit the famous Hanuman Gundi Falls for a great time. There are scenic views with coffee plantations making a perfect spot for photography. This place promotes ecotourism which you can enjoy.

Distance From Shimoga: 95.7 km

3. Brahmashree Narayana Guru Park

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Brahmashree Narayana Guru Park is one of the popular places to visit near Shimoga Karnataka. It is a park with a dedicated play area for children with swings and slides in it. You can walk along the pathways in the park and observe the colourful flowers. It is a great place to do yoga and meditation in a natural setting. Click great pictures and attend the local exhibitions and festivals in this park. It is for jogging and helps in maintaining individual fitness.

Distance From Shimoga: 186 km

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Jayanagar To Explore Its Rich Culture And Heritage

4. Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary

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Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary is a small island on the Tunga River and one of the tourist attractions near Shimoga. It’s a great place for bird lovers, especially during the monsoon season when migratory birds like darters, cormorants, and egrets visit the area. The peaceful setting, thick greenery, and flowing river create a calm atmosphere. There’s a watchtower for birdwatching, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts and photographers. It’s a quick and refreshing stop for those looking to enjoy some quiet time in nature.

Distance From Shimoga: 29 km

5. Ikkeri Temple

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Ikkeri Temple, also known as the Aghoreshwara Temple, is located near Sagara. This ancient temple, built in the 16th century, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features stunning stone architecture with detailed carvings. Surrounded by peaceful village surroundings, the temple offers both spiritual vibes and a glimpse into Karnataka’s history. It’s a quiet, offbeat spot that attracts devotees, history lovers, and architecture enthusiasts.

Distance From Shimoga: 75.5 km

Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Kollur Mookambika Temple For Travellers

6. Kavaledurga Fort

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Among the popular places to see near Shimoga is Kavaledurga Fort. A hidden gem near Thirthahalli. It’s a historical hill fort with beautiful ruins, ancient temple structures, and wide open views of the surrounding forests and hills. A moderate trek leads you through thick greenery up to the fort, which is perfect for adventure lovers and history buffs. The trek is not too tough and the scenery along the way is rewarding. It’s best visited during the cooler months or after the rains.

Distance From Shimoga: 80.9 km

7. Bhadra Dam & Reservoir

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Bhadra Dam is built across the Bhadra River and forms a large reservoir surrounded by forested hills. It’s a peaceful spot ideal for relaxing, picnicking, and enjoying nature. The nearby Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary adds to its charm, making it common to spot birds and wildlife around the area. Boating is also available depending on water levels. With fresh air, calm waters, and scenic views, it’s a great place for a quiet getaway from the city.

Distance From Shimoga: 31.3 km

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8. Kodachadri

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Kodachadri is a scenic mountain peak within the Western Ghats. It’s a favourite spot for trekkers and nature lovers. The trail takes you through forests, meadows, and waterfalls, with stunning views from the top. It’s also home to the famous Mookambika Temple, adding a spiritual touch to the adventure. The sunrise and sunset from the peak are especially beautiful. Whether you hike up or take a jeep ride, the journey is truly refreshing and memorable.

Distance From Shimoga: 103 km

7 Best Places To Visit In Shimoga

It is time to start planning your next vacation by taking the first step as you check out the places to visit near Shimoga.

1. Jog Falls

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One of the best places To Visit In Shimoga, Jog This waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls in India and has a height of 830 feet. It is a great place to visit during monsoon due to the high water flow as the waterfall is in full glory. There is an observation deck which has stunning views. The water plunges to four streams of Sharavathi including Raja, Rani, Rocket and Hornbill. You can explore the region and click memorable photographs with your family and friends.

Major Attraction: One of India’s highest plunge waterfalls, formed by the Sharavathi River

Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Jog Falls

2. Agumbe

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This place is located in the Western ghats of Karnataka and is popularly known as the Cherrapunji of the south. It has green landscapes and biodiversity that attract visitors from all parts of the nation. It has a vibrant nightlife and sunsets worth watching. It is an ideal getaway for trekkers. It has several exciting attractions like Agumbe Rainforest Research Station, Barkana Falls and Kundadri Hills. You can relax and meditate amidst nature at this place. This place offers a much-deserved break in the lap of nature, one that you are going to cherish with your family.

Major Attraction: Rainforest hill station known for sunset views, trekking trails, and waterfalls

3. Sakrebailu Elephant Camp

Photo: Nitesh S D / Wikimedia Commons

This is an elephant camp in Karnataka which is located in the middle of lush green landscapes around Tunga river. This is a place where rescued elephants are kept with intense care. As a tourist, you can visit the elephants and watch them feeding and bathing. This is a great place to visit for wildlife enthusiasts as it provides you with a pristine experience in nature. There are various educational programs which you can attend with children to raise awareness about nature and its conservation.

Major Attraction: Elephant interaction, feeding, and bathing experiences along the Tunga River

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit Near Davangere For Your Next Trip

4. Tyavarekoppa Lion Safari

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This is a famous wildlife destination in Karnataka where you can observe Asiatic lions in their natural habitat. It is a thrilling experience for the visitors to observe the wildlife and its natural environment which includes a wide variety of birds also. Children get to learn a lot about nature and conservation by visiting this lion safari. There are opportunities to click great pictures for beginners and professional photographers. This is a great family-friendly place to visit in Karnataka for the upcoming vacation.

Major Attraction: Safari park featuring Asiatic lions, tigers, and deer in semi-natural enclosures

5. Linganamakki Dam

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This is a hydroelectric dam which was constructed in the 1960s for water management in the Shimoga district of Karnataka. It is located on the Sharavathi River and has picturesque landscapes around it. It is a great place for nature walks and recreational activities. You can try boating and fishing, as it is a great place for outdoor activities. Species of birds and wildlife can be spotted near the dam. It is highly accessible from nearby areas making it an easy-to-reach place.

Major Attraction: Massive hydroelectric dam on the Sharavathi River surrounded by scenic greenery

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6. Shimoga Wildlife Sanctuary

Photo: Harikrishnan18 / Wikimedia Commons

This wildlife sanctuary is popular in Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary and comes under the larger Bhadra tiger reserve. It has natural beauty with dense forests and rolling hills. The rich biodiversity with species of tigers, birds and elephants makes it a different location. Wildlife safari is organized to protect wildlife in their natural surroundings. You can observe species of birds during certain seasons. You can participate in river rafting and camping and learn about the conservation efforts to promote environmental Awareness.

Major Attraction: Protected forest area home to tigers, elephants, and rich birdlife

7. Kuppalli

Photo: Vivek Urs / Wikimedia Commons

This is a beautiful village in the Shivamogga District of Karnataka and is known as the birthplace of Kuvempu, a popular Kannada poet. His house has been converted into a museum with photographs and his work pieces. It is a quiet retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It has coffee plantations around this place of cultural significance as several local festivals are celebrated along with vibrant community life.

Major Attraction: Birthplace and memorial of poet Kuvempu, featuring his ancestral home and museum

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For a mindful time in Karnataka, you must check out places to visit near Shimoga for your upcoming vacation. This place is an oasis of natural beauty and stunning landscapes. Plan a trip with TripXL and experience this beautiful place. It is a perfect getaway to spend quality time with yourself and your family. This trip promises several indoor and outdoor activities, suitable for all.

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