Banavasi

Banavasi is one of the most popular tourist destinations of Karnataka state. Banavasi is one of the oldest towns in the Karnataka and located at a distance of 25 km from Sirsi town in a picturesque location.
Situated on the border of Shimoga and Sirsi in Uttara Kannada district, Banavasi lies deep in the rain forests of Western Ghats on the banks of River Varadha. Travelling in the region of Banavasi is a pleasant experience with Sirsi as a haven of waterfalls, namely the Magod falls, Jog falls as well as Unchalli falls.

The Banavasi is grown up around a famous temple built in 9th century. The temple at Banavasi is dedicated Lord Shiva worshipped as Lord Madhukeshwara. The Madhukeshwara Temple is the main attraction of Banavasi. The presiding deity of Madhukeshwara is a honey colored Shiva Linga dedicated during the time of Mayura Varma, the ruler of Kadambas.

The other attractions of Banavasi temple are Monolith Asthana Mantapa, Triloka Mantapa and a Big Nandi.

There are also other temples to see, the Veerabhadra temple, which is a typical example of ancient Dravidian architecture.

Banavasi once was the capital of the Kadamba rulers, an ancient royal dynasty of Karnataka. They established themselves there in A.D. 345 and ruled for at least two centuries.

Adikavi Pampa, the first poet of Kannada, wrote his epic poems in Banavasi.

Recently a 5th century copper coin was discovered at Banavasi with an inscription in the Kannada script, one of the oldest such coins ever discovered.

Kadambothsav, the annual cultural festival organised by the Karnataka State Government at Banavasi during the month of December. Kadambothsav includes folk dancers, drama troupes, classical musicians, art exhibitions, while drawing together performers, artists, and writers from most of south India. Yakshagana is the main art form exhibited during the festival.

Best time to visit Banavasi: September to January.

There is no lodging facility at Banavasi. Small eateries selling snacks and cool drinks are available at Banavasi.

Distance from Banavasi:
Sirsi: 25 km
Shimoga: 115 km
Bangalore: 380 km

How to get there (Banavasi)

Nearest Airport: Mangalore

Nearest Railhead: Shimoga

Road: Banavasi is well connected by road network.
KSRTC runs direct Bus services from Bangalore to Banavasi. The alternate option is to reach Shimoga or Sirsi from Bangalore and catch a private bus to Banavasi.

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