Sirsi, situated at an altitude of 2000 feet, is a tourist destination surrounded by thick forests and towering hills. It is one of the most popular places to visit near Hubli. Sirsi is a place full of surprises, and one can see numerous religious spots, waterfalls, and forests replete with rich flora and fauna as part of Sirsi holiday packages. In the old times, Sirsi was ruled by the Sonda Dynasty and was known by the name of Kalyanapattana. Sirsi is one of the major trading centres for areca nuts. The region is also known for spices such as cardamom, pepper, betel leaves, and vanilla.
History Of Sirsi
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This pristine hill station is known as the ‘Gateway of Malenadu’ or ‘Gateway of Western Ghats. It was also known as Kalyana Pattana during the Sonda Dynasty. It is a tourist destination with evergreen forests, waterfalls, and a commercial centre. The main businesses around the city are mostly subsistence and agriculture-based. The history of Sirsi taluk is perhaps as old as that of Karnataka, but Banavasi, the capital of the ancient Kadambas, is located in the present taluk. There are different versions regarding the origin of the name ‘Sirsi’. Shirassu, Shirisa tree, Siri, etc., are presumed to be the original names that subsequently became ‘Sirsi’.
Must Read: Places To Visit In Sirsi
Sirsi Location
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It is a tranquil town dotted with terracotta-tiled houses. Located 84 km from Gokarna, 99 km from Shimoga, 100 km from Dandeli, 102 km from Hubli, 395 km from Bangalore, and 588 km from Hyderabad, It is a small hill station in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. It is the main commercial centre and a business hub in the Malnad region.
Places To Visit Near Sirsi
There are many places to visit near Sirsi that are worth visiting. Some of the most popular places to visit near Sirsi are mentioned below:
1. Sri Marikamba Temple
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The Marikamba Temple is located in Sagara in the Shimoga district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It features the image of the goddess Marikamba Devi. The temple was built in the city’s centre during the reign of Venkatappa Nayaka, who ruled over the Keladi and Ikkeri kingdoms during the 16th century. Marikamba was the family deity of the Nayaka dynasty. Every three years, a 9-day fair is held at the temple venue in February or March. Known as the Marikamba Jatra (‘Jathra’ means “fair”), it is one of the major festivals of Karnataka.
Location: Banavasi Road, Sirsi
Distance: From Sirsi: 650 m
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2. Sahasralinga
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Sahastralinga is a pilgrimage place, located around 14 km from the Taluk in the district of Uttara Kannada of Karnataka state in India. Sahasralingeshwara temple is located near Sirsi and is situated on the banks of the river Shalmala, where a thousand lingams are found. The Shiva Lingas were built under the patronage of Sadashivarayavarma, king of the kingdom (1678 – 1718). It is also possible to see many Nandi (lord Shiva’s vehicle) carved in front of the Shivalingas.
Location: Sadashivalli, Karnataka
Distance: From Sirsi: 14 km
3. Burude Falls
Illimane Falls is formed out of a creek called Illimane, a tributary of another giant river from the state. Famous for its breathtaking views and captivating landscapes of lush green forests and the misty hills it is even more picturesque. This picnic spot famous in the region offers an array of adventurous activities. Bird-watching at Burude Falls is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife photographers. One can easily spot the resident and a few migratory birds like Bulbul, Mynah, Jungle fowl, parakeets, woodpeckers, kingfishers, minivets, and many more.
Location: Siddapura, Sirsi
Distance: From Sirsi: 49 km
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4. Tarakeshwara Temple
The Tarakeshwara or Tarakeshvara Temple is a Hindu temple complex dedicated to Shiva as Tarakeswara located in Hangal, Karnataka, India. It also houses a temple to Shiva’s vahana, Nandi, and his son Ganesha. The complex is a listed monument of the Archaeological Survey of India. The temple’s name is derived from the Tarakeshwara form of Lord Shiva. Even though the credit for the construction of this temple goes to the Kadambas, it was the Kalyani Chalukyas who made significant changes to make it into the form we see today.
Location: Hangal, Karnataka
Distance: From Sirsi: 42 km
Further Read: Karnataka Waterfalls
Sirsi has proved to be one of the most favourite tourist spots in Karnataka and now that you know why, it is time to head straight there! Book your tickets as soon as possible for a fantastic Trip To Karnataka now and add all the nearby top places on your bucket list for the budget-friendly journey with your loved ones.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Sirsi
What is the best time to visit Sirsi?
Winter. (October to January) season in Sirsi is quite pleasing and is therefore considered the best time to visit. The minimum temperature recorded is 19℃, and the maximum temperature goes up to 32℃. Travellers prefer to visit Sirsi during winter as the temperature remains moderate.
What is the usual weather in Sirsi?
The climate of Sirsi has an average yearly temperature of 35°C. Throughout the year, the average monthly temperature can drop to 29°C and rise to 43°C.
What essentials should be carried while visiting the hill station of Sirsi?
Make sure to carry trekking equipment, good walking shoes, sunglasses, emergency food items and a first-aid kit while travelling to Sirsi.
What is the staple food of the local people of Sirsi?
Areca nut or betel nut, locally known as Adike (also known as supari), is the primary crop grown in the nearby villages, making it one of the major trading centres for areca nut. Maddur Vada, Bisi Bele Bhaat and many other popular South Indian dishes are a delicacy in Karnataka.
What is the main occupation of the people living in Sirsi?
Agriculture is the main occupation of people living in Sirsi, Karnataka. People are socially traditional, economically active and dynamic, and culturally rich with varied heritage.
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