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Set amidst the lush forests of the Western Ghats in Karnataka is the small town of Bhadravati. Famous for the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, this town is a major tourist attraction. Far from civilisation, the town rests in the lap of nature and is a eco-tourism hotspot.
Previously known as Jagara Valley, this place served as a hunting ground for the kings. With the passage of time the forest was converted into a sanctuary and is currently a protected tiger reserve.
Some of the tourist attractions in Bhadravati include; the Bhadra River, Bhadravati Dam, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Lakshmi Narasimha Temple and more. Read our travel guide to know more about the places to visit in Bhadravati.
Bhadra River
One of the places to visit in Bhadravati is the Bhadra River which originates from Gangamoola near Kudremukh. The cool and comforting effect of the surrounding region is one which must be felt. Tourists come here to enjoy the serenity of this place and it is also an ideal place to head for a picnic with your family.
Photo Courtesy:Dineshkannambadi
Bhadravati Dam
Another tourist attraction in Bhadravati is the Bhadravati Dam which is also known as the Bhadra River Project Dam. This dam is a major source of power generation in the town and nearby areas. It overlooks a small forested island, and attracts tourists here in large numbers. This is also an ideal picnic spot, and also many photographers throng here to take pictures of the beautiful region around.
Photo Courtesy:Subharnab Majumdar
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
One of the major tourist attractions in Bhadravati is the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary is located amidst the deciduous forests of the Western Ghats. Various species of animals are to be found here namely leopard, elephant, Gaur, Sambar, tiger, deer, Muntjac and porcupine. There are also numerous species of birds here, which include Southern Green Imperial Pigeon, Emerald Dove, Malabar Parakeet, Hill Myna and the Great Black Woodpecker. It is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts who can see the animals in their natural environment here.
Photo Courtesy:USFWSmidwest
Lakshmi Narasimha Temple
Travellers coming to Bhadravati should visit the Lakshmi Narsimha Temple, which is located here and is believed to have been built in the 13th century. Built by the kings of the Hoysala Dynasty, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu's incarnation of Adi Narsimha. There are also idols of Lord Krishna, Lord Ganesh, Lord Purushottama and Goddess Sharadamba here. Many devotees come here to pay their respect to the Gods.
Photo Courtesy:Amarrg
Jain Basadi
One of the places to visit in Bhadravati is the Jain Basadi, which is dedicated to the Jain God Mahavira. The temple has many intricate carvings about the life of Lord Mahavira on its walls. There is also a statue of the Lord placed at the center of the temple. Jain devotees come here in large numbers to pay homage and admire the beauty of the temple. It also attracts tourists because of the scenic views it provides.
Photo Courtesy:Madhav Pai
Mathas in Bhadra
Bhardravati being situated on the banks of River Bhadra has many Mathas here. These holy Mathas are used during the various religious occassions. Some of the prominent Mathas located here include Sunnada Halli, Gondhi, Sharada and Kundli and Shankar Mathas. Tourists can come here to enjoy the beauty of the river and also see sages performing various rituals. It has picturesque view and therefore attracts photographers too.
Photo Courtesy:Dineshkannambadi
Shiva Idol
Another tourist attraction in Bhadravati is the Shiva Idol that stands tall at Lower Huttha. The idol is a major place of worship for the Hindus who come here to take blessings from the Lord.
Photo Courtesy:Lensman vishy
How to Reach Bhadra
By Air: Mangalore International Airport serves as the nearest airport for domestic as well as international tourists coming to Bhadra. Also known as the Bajpe Airport, it is situated at a distance of about 190 km from Bhadra. Flights from here connect to major Middle-East countries as well as most cities of India.
By Train: Hassan Railway Station is the nearest railhead to Bhadra, situated at a distance of about 83 km. It is well connected to major cities, and nearby towns such as Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, etc.
By Road: Visiting Bhadra is easier by road from Bangalore, which is situated at a distance of about 250 km. Tourists can avail KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation) buses from Bangalore till Tarikere, and from there private buses are available till Lakkavalli. Taxis can also be hired from Bangalore to directly reach Bhadra.
Photo Courtesy:Prasanth Chandran
