Shimoga: Gateway of Malnad
Shimoga, India or Shivamogga is a city in Karnataka. It is the gateway for Western Ghats. As such, it is popular as “Gateway of Malnad”.
Best Time to Visit
The perfect time to visit Shimoga is during the months of November through February, for the best weather. Peak tourist season is usually during the months of August through October. Tourists are least likely to visit in June. One of the most popular events nearby is Bengaluru Kite Festival in Bengaluru, which is usually held every January. It is a family event featuring food, inflatable trail with more than 200 obstacles, live music, and special kite show.
What to Do & Area Attractions
When in the city, tourists should visit Shimoga Institute of Medical Sciences (SIMS), an autonomous institute founded in 2005. Facilities include an auditorium, examination hall, laboratories, lecture halls, and museums. The Central Library, established in 2007, is one of the repositories of medical knowledge. Another interesting site to visit is Government Museum or Shivappa Nayaka Palace. It was named after the 17th-century king Shivappa Nayaka of the Keladi Nayaka dynasty. Accordingly, it was constructed by Hyder Ali, an 18th-century Mysore ruler. It is home to many antiquities gathered from nearby archaeological sites and temples. These include hero stones, inscriptions, sculptures, and other items from the Hoysala era and later periods. It has some living chambers as well as a Durbar hall. You can also stroll around the Gandhi Park and the Ameer Ahmed Circle. Some of the most affordable Shimoga hotels offering the finest of Indian hospitality include the 4-star Royal Orchid Central. Other options include the Hotel Pooja International, and The Gateway Hotel Chikmagalur.