Venugopala Swamy Temple - KRS Backwater

Tucked away by the peaceful backwaters of the Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) Dam, Gopalaswamy Temple is a beautiful spot for both relaxation and spiritual connection.

During a recent family event in Mysuru, we found ourselves with some free time before heading back to Bengaluru. With plenty of options for a quick visit, we decided to check out Gopalaswamy Temple, a place my mom had been eager to see.

The temple is about 30 kilometers from Mysuru. When I checked Google Maps, it showed over an hour of travel time, which made me think it was due to weekend traffic. However, as we got closer, I realized that the last 5 kilometers had very bad road conditions, taking us about 40 minutes to cover that stretch.

Once we arrived, the beautiful surroundings quickly made us forget about the rough drive. There was plenty of parking, which I appreciated right away.

The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and features stunning architecture with detailed carvings and bright colors. Inside, the peaceful atmosphere invites quiet reflection and worship.

The temple overlooks the vast backwaters, creating a gorgeous backdrop. The gentle sounds of water and birds make it a fantastic spot for taking photos.

Gopalaswamy Temple is more than just a religious site; it’s a calm escape from city life. Whether you’re looking for spiritual peace or a relaxing day in nature, this hidden gem by the KRS backwaters is a must-visit.

Jogimatti - Chitradurga's Hidden Gem

Jogimatti is a peaceful hill station near Chitradurga, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Located about 10 km from Chitradurga town, it offers a refreshing escape from city life. Its cool weather, lush greenery, and beautiful views make it ideal for a one-day trip or a quiet weekend getaway.

We started our journey to Jogimatti from Chitradurga after exploring the historic Chitradurga Kallina Kote the previous day. The drive took about 30 minutes. After passing through the checkpost, the road wasn't in great condition, but it was surrounded by dense forests and scenic landscapes. The narrow and rough road added to the sense of adventure.

If you're driving, ensure your vehicle is in good condition because the uphill journey can be challenging.

Entry Fee:

- ₹25 per person
- ₹200 for a car
- ₹50 for a camera

Considering the road conditions and parking facilities, paying ₹200 for the car didn't seem worth it.

Jogimatti is named after a sage called "Jogimatti," who is said to have meditated here in ancient times.

There's a small viewpoint where you can enjoy panoramic views of the valleys below and the distant Chitradurga Fort. Unfortunately, we couldn't see the valley because it was a foggy day.

After spending some time near the peak, we returned to Chitradurga. If you're ever in the Chitradurga region, a visit to Jogimatti is a must.

There's also a waterfall called Himavad Rameshwara, which beautifully cascades down the hills during the monsoon. You need to walk about 1 km to reach it. If you visit during the monsoon season, the waterfall is in full flow and offers a stunning sight. Even though it wasn't at its peak during our visit, the lush green surroundings made the hike worthwhile.

Tips for Visitors:

- Best Time to Visit: Monsoon (July to September) or winter months (November to February) when the weather is cool, and the waterfall is at its best.
- What to Carry: Since there are no shops or eateries on the hill, bring your own snacks, water, and essentials. Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking most of the time.
- Respect Nature: Jogimatti is a pristine location, so please take back any waste and avoid disturbing the wildlife.

Jogimatti may not be as popular as other hill stations, but that's what makes it special. The untouched beauty, solitude, and opportunity to reconnect with nature are what I loved most about this place. It's a perfect getaway for those looking to escape city life or explore lesser-known gems of Karnataka.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or someone seeking peace, Jogimatti has something for everyone. The combination of trekking, serene scenery, and a glimpse into Karnataka's natural beauty makes it a destination worth exploring.

Chitradurga Fort

Exploring the Majestic Chitradurga Fort during the monsoon season had been on my wish list for a long time. This year, the area received plenty of rain, and it was quite a treat to experience the cool weather in Chitradurga!

We were in Chitradurga to celebrate Diayan's first birthday, with all our friends planning to join us. We decided to gather a day early and visit the "Chitradurga da Kallina Kote" as a group.

Our plan was to reach Chitradurga by 10:00 AM, quickly freshen up, and start exploring the fort by 11:00 AM. However, our captain, Naveen Katte, had other ideas. By the time we finally picked him up, it was already 1:30 PM. He kept us waiting near the bus stop for over an hour and a half, repeatedly saying, "Just 5 more minutes, I'll be there." 😜

About Chitradurga Fort:

Nestled in the heart of Karnataka, Chitradurga Fort is a historic marvel that resembles to India’s rich cultural heritage. Known locally as "Kallina Kote", this massive fort is located in the Chitradurga district, around 200 kilometers from Bangalore.

A Glimpse into History:

The Chitradurga Fort has a long and storied past. Built between the 11th and 13th centuries, it was initially developed by the Chalukyas, Hoysalas and later expanded by the Nayakas of Chitradurga. The fort played a crucial role in defending the region against various invaders, including Hyder Ali and his son, Tipu Sultan.

The fort is an architectural wonder, spread over 1,500 acres with seven concentric walls, 18 ancient temples, 19 gateways, and a series of interconnected passages. Its unique design makes it almost impossible for invaders to breach. The rugged terrain, combined with the strategic placement of watchtowers, provided excellent defense.

Since we started late, we knew we wouldn’t be able to cover the entire fort (it takes at least a full day to explore this beautiful place). So, we tried to see as much as we could. The slippery rocks forced us to be careful with our steps, slowing us down.

We also met Jyoti Raj, an Indian free solo climber from Chitradurga. Known as "Kothi Raju," he’s famous for climbing Chitradurga Fort without any safety harnesses.

One of the most famous structures within the fort is the "Onake Obavva Kindi," a narrow passage where Obavva, the wife of a guard, single-handedly fought off enemy soldiers with a pestle. Her bravery is legendary and is celebrated to this day.

Chitradurga Fort is not just a historical site; it is also a place of natural beauty. The fort is surrounded by rocky hills, and the view from the top is breathtaking. The area is dotted with beautiful landscapes, and the fort itself is home to several ancient temples, each with intricate carvings and sculptures.

The trek up to the fort can be challenging (especially when it rains), but the panoramic views and the experience of exploring such an ancient site make it worth the effort.

Tips for Visitors

- Entry Fee : ₹25 for adults; still cameras are free, but there is a charge of ₹100 for videos.
- Wear comfortable shoes : The fort involves a lot of walking and climbing.
- Carry water and snacks : There are limited facilities inside the fort.
- Best time to visit : Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
- Guided tours : Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the fort's history and significance.

Chitradurga Fort is a must-visit destination, offering a unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. Whether you're a solo traveler, a family, or a group of friends, this ancient fortress has something to offer everyone.

Nelligudde Kere

After exploring Ramadevara Betta, we took a quick break to fill our empty stomachs at Rajesh Biryani Hotel in Ramanagara. The biryani here is delicious and definitely worth trying.

Since we had some time, we decided to visit Nelligudde Kere on our way back home.

Nelligudde Kere is about 15 kilometers from Ramanagara, 3 kilometers from Bidadi, and 50 kilometers from Bangalore, making it a great spot for a day trip. You can easily reach the lake by car or bike, and there’s plenty of parking near the entrance.

The best time to visit Nelligudde Kere is early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The cooler months from October to February are ideal, as the weather is nice and the surroundings are lush and green after the monsoon. Early mornings offer a calm atmosphere with misty surroundings, while late afternoons give you beautiful lighting for photography.

The lake is surrounded by greenery and rocky formations, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful walk, a quiet picnic, or just sitting by the water and relaxing.

We spent some time walking around and taking pictures.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, a photography outing, or just a simple day trip, this lake offers a calm and beautiful setting that will refresh your senses. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the peacefulness of Nelligudde Kere – a hidden gem waiting to be explored.