|
Mahal Palace (9 kms.)
The charming white coloured double storeyed palace is set on
a ridge at the foot of the Chamundi Hills. It was built by Maharaja Krishnaraja
Wodeyar in 1931, to accommodate the royal guest from overseas. The palace is
designed in European – Classical style and the central dome was modeled after
the St. Paul’s Cathedral in London. The palace interiors are embellished with finest of local craftsmanship and
imported luxury fittings. It has now been converted into a luxurious heritage
hotel..
Srarangapattaana (16 kms.)
The 18th century island capital of Haider Ali and
his son Tipur Sultan is flanked by two branches of river Kaveri. The battle
scarred ramparts of the fort reflects the heroics of Tipu, who valiantly fought
the British and delayed their hegemony over Mysore. Within the fort is a mosque and the magnificent
Ranganathaswamy temple. Dating back to 9th century, an evidence of
secular and tolerant nature of Tipu. Tipu Sultan’s summer palace, Daria
Daulatbagh and his mausoleum are located outside the fort. The palace is noted
for its gilded wall panels, ornate arches and 18th century frescoes.
Somnathpur (35 kms.)
Sacred Somnathpurn is one of the three jewels of Hoysala
temple architecture, the other two are Belur and Halebid. The Chennakesave Temple here was built in 1268 A.D. during the reign of king Narasimha III, at the
instance of his minister Somanatha Dandayayaka. Like other Hoysala shrines, it
is set on a raised plinth with a star shaped ground plan, but unlike the Belur
and Halebid Temples, it was actually completed. The temple complex has a triple – shrine
(trikutachala), each with its own stunningly beautiful vimana and sukhanasi
(vestibule) and a spacious common Navaranga mandapa. The outer walls are
exquisitely carved narrating episodes from the legendary epics – Ramayana,
Mahabharta and the Bhagvatha.
Kabani River Lodge (80 kms.)
The Jungle resort on the eastern fringes of famous nagarhole
Wildlife Sanctuary has emerged as a popular tourist destination. The lush
lover’s paradise. A jeep ride into the dense forests or a walk with a guide is
a memorable experience.
Talakkad (45 kms.)
This historic and religious centre on the left bank of
Kaveri was the capital of Gangas from 5th to 10th
century. In 1116, Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana attacked Talakkad, under the
Cholas and attained victory. To celebrate his victory, Vishnuvarhana built five
temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, one of them is the Kirtinarayan temple. Talakkad
is also known for the five Shivalingas or the Panch lingas’ enshrined in
beautiful temples. The famous ‘Panch Ling’ darshan, a bathing festival is held
here on a rare astronomical combination that occurs at intervals ranging
between four and fourteen years. The Vaidyeswara, Pataleshwara and Maraleshwara Temples contain three of the five
Panch lingas. Vaidyeshvara temple was built around 1360 and is the largest
shrine here. The Pataleshwara temple if famous for the unique linga, which
changes colour from deep red in the morning to dark brown in the afternoon and
white in the evening.
Melukote (48 kms.)
Melukote or the ‘High Fort’, an important centre of
Vaishnavite worship is well known for the five shrines dedicated to lord Vishnu
known as the Panchanarayana temples. These were built by the Hoysala king
Vishnuvardhana, after embracing Vaishnavism under the influence of Shri
Ramajuja. The Famous Cheluvarayaswami temple atop Yadavagiri hill enshrines a
fine statue of Lord Vishnu holding the Shanku (conch), Chakra (a disk like
weapon) and a Gadha (mace). The spectacular 10 days vairamudi Festival is held
here during Mar. – Apr. and attracts lakhs of devotees. Melukot is also known
for its salubrious climate, scenic splendour and charm.
Sivasamudram (80 kms.)
The island town endowed with exceptional scenic beauty is 44
kms. From Mandya. It is surrounded by forests hills and valleys and famous for
the two picturesque falls – Gaganachukki and the Bharacukki created by the two
branches of river Kaveri. The Ranganatha temple at the Sivasamundram island is a large
structure Hoysala structure enshrining a sculpture of the presiding deity in a
reclining posture. Someshwara Shiva temple is another important shrine on the
island. Asia’s first Hydro – electric Power Station,
established in 1902, is located nearby.
Billigiri Rangana (B R) Hills (90 kms.)
B R Hills are a delight for wildlife, trekking and adventure
sports enthusiasts. The terrain is dotted with peaks and hill top temples. Billigiri Rangana Temple
dedicated to Lord Rangaswamy is the most important shrine. The Ratha (chariot)
festival is held here in April. Other places worth seeing are – Dodda Sampige
Mara, the 2000 year old giant tree and BRT Wildlife Sanctuary.
Bandipur National Park (80 kms.)
It sprawls in the foothills of the Nilgiris and is one of
the most fascinating wildlife centers in the country. The park was established
in 1931, by the Mysore Maharajas and was brought under the ‘Project Tiger’ in
1974. it covers an area of 874.20 sq. kms., adjoining the famous Mudumalai
sanctuary in Tamil Nadu and Wayanad sanctuary in Kerala. The lush forest full
of teak, rosewood, hone, mathi, bamboo and sandal trees teems with elephant,
tiger, leopard, panther, dhole (wild dog), bison, spotted deer, sambar,
crocodile, cobra and python etc. Birds like peafowl, partridge, quail,
hornbill, ibis, eagle, etc. can be viewed here. Visitors can take a safari on
elephant back for viewing the wildlife or hire a vehicle to go round the park.
Well planned motorable roads close to the perennial and seasonal water points
and adequate open spaces in the forests enables a better viewing. The best season to visit the park is from May to June and
September to November. |
Chat
