Things To Do
in Shimoga
Shimoga, located in the southern state of Karnataka, India, is known for its lush green landscapes and serene surroundings. The city is surrounded by hills, rivers, and forests, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Shimoga is also famous for its historical sites, including ancient temples and forts that attract tourists seeking a glimpse into the region's rich heritage.
The local cuisine of Shimoga offers a delightful blend of flavors, influenced by traditional South Indian recipes and ingredients.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $5 - $20
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Jog Falls, one of India's tallest waterfalls. Enjoy a scenic trek nearby to take in the breathtaking views.
Head to the Sakrebailu Elephant Camp to watch and interact with elephants. Engage in fun activities like feeding and bathing these gentle giants.
Stroll through the charming local markets in Shimoga. Sample some local snacks and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Visit the ancient temples at Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for a dose of history. Explore the intricacies of the architecture.
Have lunch at a local eatery and then visit the Hampi ruins. Spend time discovering the fascinating stories behind these historic structures.
Return to Shimoga and enjoy a quiet evening at the serene Agumbe Rainforest Research Station. Embrace the sounds of nature as the day winds down.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic beauty with lush green landscapes and hills.
- Rich cultural heritage and historical significance.
- Pleasant climate, especially during monsoons.
- Access to numerous waterfalls and natural attractions, such as Jog Falls.
- Growing tourism and hospitality industry, which provides job opportunities.
- Biodiversity, including several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.
- Limited connectivity and transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Lack of advanced healthcare facilities.
- Rural infrastructure may not be well-developed.
- Economic opportunities may be fewer compared to metropolitan areas.
- Seasonal flooding can affect certain regions during monsoons.
- Limited entertainment and shopping options for residents.
Best Activities in Shimoga
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful hills and forests of the Western Ghats through a variety of trekking routes in Shimoga.
Visit the breathtaking Jog Falls, one of the highest plunge waterfalls in India, and enjoy the stunning natural scenery.
Experience the thrill of river rafting in the Sharavathi River, offering exciting rapids and picturesque surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Shimoga with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Shimoga
Visit one of these nice places.
One of the highest plunge waterfalls in India, offering breathtaking views and great photo opportunities.
Scenic safari park with opportunities to capture photos of majestic lions and tigers in natural surroundings.
A picturesque hill offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the surrounding natural beauty.
Historic fort with scenic views of the surrounding landscape and the Sharavathi River.
Food in Shimoga
Shimoga Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Kotte Kadubu is a traditional steamed rice cake wrapped in a fragrant leaf, giving it a wonderful aroma and flavor. It is often served with coconut chutney and makes for a delightful breakfast or snack. You can find authentic Kotte Kadubu at local eateries and street food stalls throughout Shimoga.
Must-Try!
Benne Dosa is a specialty dish in Shimoga, made with butter and served with a variety of chutneys. The dosa's unique flavor and crispy texture make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Visit popular food stalls and local restaurants to savor the best Benne Dosa in town.
Akki Roti is a gluten-free flatbread made from rice flour and flavored with onions, green chilies, and fresh coriander. It is typically served with coconut chutney or spicy curries. You can enjoy delicious Akki Roti at traditional eateries and street food vendors in Shimoga.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Shimoga better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Gandhi Bazaar is a bustling market in Shimoga where you can explore a wide variety of fresh produce, local spices, and street food. It's a great place to sample authentic snacks like Bonda, Vada, and local fruit juices.
The street food stalls in Shimoga's City Market offer a fantastic array of local delicacies such as Pani Puri, Chaats, and Masala Puri. It's a vibrant and lively area where you can experience the true flavors of Shimoga street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Shimoga, it is customary to greet people with the traditional Indian greeting 'Namaste', which involves pressing your palms together and bowing slightly as a sign of respect.
It's important to be mindful of and respect the religious customs and traditions in Shimoga, such as taking off your shoes before entering a temple or covering your head when visiting certain religious sites.
When dining with locals in Shimoga, it's polite to eat with your right hand, as the left hand is considered unclean. Additionally, finishing all the food on your plate is a sign of respect for the meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Shimoga with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Shimoga
Ensure a smooth experience
In Shimoga, India, tipping is not a common practice in most places. However, in some upscale hotels and restaurants, a service charge may be added to the bill, in which case additional tipping is not necessary. If no service charge is included, a tip of 5-10% of the total bill amount is appreciated, but not expected.
In Shimoga, India, cash is the most commonly used form of payment. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but it's advisable to carry sufficient cash, especially when visiting more remote areas or smaller shops and restaurants. ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Shimoga.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Expect hot and humid weather with occasional rain showers.
Expect heavy rainfall, lush green landscapes, and potential travel disruptions due to flooding. Not ideal for outdoor activities but great for experiencing the region's natural beauty.
Ideal for pleasant weather, trekking, and exploring the city. Cool temperatures and clear skies make it a popular time for tourists.
Shimoga at Night
Hiking in Shimoga
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning peak offering breathtaking views of the Western Ghats, Kodachadri is ideal for adventurous hikes through lush forests and towards beautiful sunsets.
Located near Shimoga, this spot offers opportunities for nature walks and mild hikes amidst the lush green environment while observing elephants.
A serene forested area providing trails for hiking and exploring the diverse flora and fauna unique to the region.
Known as the 'Cherrapunji of the South', Agumbe boasts several hiking trails with stunning views and waterfalls, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
A sanctuary with varied wildlife and beautiful trails, it offers hiking paths through rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes.
Aiports
How to reach Shimoga by plane.
Located approximately 180 km from Shimoga, Mangalore International Airport serves as a major gateway for domestic and international flights.
Situated around 300 km from Shimoga, Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru is one of the busiest airports in India, offering an extensive range of international and domestic flights.
Located about 250 km from Shimoga, Calicut International Airport serves various domestic and international destinations, especially to the Middle East.
Approximately 350 km from Shimoga, Coimbatore International Airport facilitates both domestic and international travel.
Around 600 km from Shimoga, Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad is a major international airport serving multiple flights across the globe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Shimoga, primarily practicing various sects within Hinduism.
A significant minority group, observing Islam and contributing to the cultural diversity of Shimoga.
Another minority group, known for their distinct religious practices and beliefs.
A smaller demographic group engaged in various Christian practices and communities.
Includes various other ethnic and religious minorities residing in Shimoga.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is immensely popular in Shimoga, with many local clubs and street teams. The region has produced several professional cricketers and hosts various tournaments.
Kabaddi is a traditional sport in Karnataka and is actively played in Shimoga. The sport enjoys local leagues and competitions.
Football has a strong following in Shimoga, with many schools and local teams participating in district and state-level tournaments.
Athletics is promoted in schools and colleges in Shimoga, with various events held throughout the year, encouraging young athletes.
Badminton is popular among the youth in Shimoga, with several clubs and facilities available for both casual and competitive play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shimoga.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Shimoga offers a rich variety of vegetarian and vegan options due to its culinary heritage. Many local dishes are inherently vegetarian, and restaurants and cafes are accommodating to those with dietary preferences. Look for dishes like Palya, Kosambari, and Saagu for delightful vegetarian experiences.
For gluten-free options, traditional dishes like Akki Roti, Ragi Mudde, and dishes made from rice flour are excellent choices. Additionally, many establishments in Shimoga are familiar with dietary restrictions and can offer suitable alternatives upon request.