Karnataka · Travel

Panchalingeshwara temple: Historical temple in Begur

It is the end of the holy month of Karthik and as mentioned in my previous post, it is a period when it is considered highly auspicious to pay obeisance to Lord Shiva. Home to several ancient temples, Bangalore is a city where Karthik masa is celebrated with fervour and gaeity alike. Almost every temple… Continue reading Panchalingeshwara temple: Historical temple in Begur

Karnataka · Travel

The Allure of the Udupi Mallige (Udupi Jasmine)

It is close to 9.30 am on a sultry Sunday morning and the roads of Shankerpura (also spelt Shankarpura), known for its famous mallige (jasmine) bear a deserted look. I was looking for the famous “mallige katte” or mallige trading centre which I was given to understand was where the rate of the famous Udupi mallige… Continue reading The Allure of the Udupi Mallige (Udupi Jasmine)

Karnataka · Travel

On a temple trail in Subrahmanya, Karnataka

Known as one of the most holy places created by saint Parashurama, the Kukke Shri Subrahmanya temple is arguably one of the most popular pilgrimage centres in the southern state of Karnataka. Perched on the banks of the Kumaradhara river, legend has it that the divine serpent Vasuki and other snakes took refuge under Lord… Continue reading On a temple trail in Subrahmanya, Karnataka

Karnataka · Travel

Srimanthi Bhai Memorial Government Museum: an engaging visit

One of the best ways to pick up insights about the local history, art, architecture and culture of a place is by visiting musuems located there. Being a big fan of museums, I decided to visit the Srimanthi Bhai Memorial Government Museum in Mangalore during my recent visit. Located in Bejai this one was started… Continue reading Srimanthi Bhai Memorial Government Museum: an engaging visit

Karnataka · Travel

The Veena makers of Simpadipura – home to a dying craft

Entering the interiors of Simpadipura, a sleepy hamlet about 60 km from Bangalore it is not uncommon to hear the sounds of chisels and hammers striking against wood.  Large logs of jackfruit tree wood lying amidst clearings of mahogany and silver oak trees with workers busy carving dome shaped structures from them is a common… Continue reading The Veena makers of Simpadipura – home to a dying craft

Karnataka · Travel

Photoessay: Monsoon Magic in Coorg

Often dubbed as the Scotland of India, Coorg is arguably one of the most scenic places in South India.  Nestled along the Western Ghats, it is located in between Mysore and Mangalore and is a popular getaway from Bangalore.  With mist clad landscapes, coffee estates and enchanting flora and fauna, Coorg aka Kodagu is a… Continue reading Photoessay: Monsoon Magic in Coorg

Karnataka · Travel

Photoessay: Mahanavami Dibba aka Dasara Dibba, Hampi

Often referred to as the world’s largest open air museum, Hampi in Karnataka is a heritage site quite like none other.  A favourite with tourists from all over the world, Hampi is a proposed UNESCO world heritage site and offers an experience of a lifetime. Located on the banks of the river Tungabhadra, Hampi was… Continue reading Photoessay: Mahanavami Dibba aka Dasara Dibba, Hampi

Karnataka · Travel

Veera Narayana Temple, Belavadi – a hidden gem in Chikamagalur, Karnataka

Given that India is a land of temples, it is no surprise that travel unearths some truly hidden gems.  And one such gem is the Veera Narayana Temple in Belavadi about 30 km from Chikamagalur.   While one normally associates Hoysala temples with the magnificent ones in Belur and Halebid, this temple is yet another example of… Continue reading Veera Narayana Temple, Belavadi – a hidden gem in Chikamagalur, Karnataka

General

Mullayanagiri Hill, Chikmagalur – bewitching beauty amidst the peaks

Lush green landscapes, mist covered mountains, stunning views and panoramic beauty all around……this is Mullayanagiri hill for you.  Arguably one of the most popular places to visit when you make a trip to Chikmagalur, Mullayanagiri is the highest peak in the state of Karnataka.  Nestled at a height of a whopping 1950 meters, Mullayanagiri is located about… Continue reading Mullayanagiri Hill, Chikmagalur – bewitching beauty amidst the peaks

Karnataka · Travel

Photoessay: Sri Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple, Melukote

Visiting Melukote as I outlined in one of my recent posts is akin to taking a journey back in time.  A quaint charm and oodles of antiquity lend the town ,which is replete with courtyard houses, ancient temples, stepped tanks and various other monumnets, a unqiue vibe.  The soul of the town also known as Thirunarayanapura,… Continue reading Photoessay: Sri Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple, Melukote