Shimoga in Kannada, locally known as Shivamogga is a city in west-central Karnataka state, India. Shimoga is the administrative seat of the surrounding Shimoga District. It is situated 275 km northwest of Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka.
Shimoga District is a part of naturally rich Malnad (Malenaadu) region of Karnataka. It is also known as "Gateway to Malenaadu" ("Malenaada Hebbagilu", as in kannada). It has an area of 10,553 sq. km, and a population of 1,639,595 (2001 census), a 12.90% increase from 1991. It is bounded by the districts of Haveri to the northeast, Davanagere to the east, Chikmagalur to the southeast, Udupi to the southwest, and Uttara Kannada to the northwest. The Western Ghats or Sahyadri range and the numerous rivers that originate there provide Shimoga with abundant natural beauty. Jog Falls, situated 113 km away from Shimoga, bear witness to nature's headlong tumble as the Sharavati river makes a spectacular drop of 235 m (810 ft) in four distinct cascades—known locally as Raja, Rani, Roarer and Rocket—to create the highest waterfalls in Asia. The falls are at their best during the monsoon, with arching rainbows colouring the mist.


Surrounded by the rivers Tungabhadra, Sharavati, Kumudvati and numerous others, Shimoga is known as the Rice Bowl of Karnataka.


Prime Attractions

Ambuthirtha
It is about 16 kms to the North-West of Thirthahally town. The river Sharavathi takes its birth here and is considered holy. A Shivalinga is installed at the spot.

Agumbe
Nestling on a ghat head is the picturesque town of Agumbe famous for its glorious sunsets. Other spot includes the Gopala Krishna temple and the observatory.

Belagavi
Famous for Old Temples.

Barkana falls
It is about 80 kms from Thirthahally town in Balehalli forest area. It is a valley with natural water of Seetha river. Height of the falls is about 259 mts.


Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
Bhadra wildlife sanctuary is in the Shimoga and Chikmagalur districts, is one of the most fascinating sanctuaries. Barking dear, Flying fox, Mongoose, Elephant, Panther, Gaur and birds like King Fisher, Weaverbird can be seen in this Sanctuary.

Gudavi
A bird Sanctuary near Soraba.

Jog
60 kms from Honnavar. The river Sharavathi spreads into four steams and cascades as the Raja, Rani, Rocket and Roarer.

Honnemaradu
15 km from Jog Water Sports Centre.

Kodachadri
Hill station in Western Ghats.

Sinhadham
A Lion Safari Park on Shimoga-Sagar Road.