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Koppal District

Koppal District

About:

Koppal is a district in the northern part of Karnataka, India, known for its rich historical and cultural significance. Often called the "City of Forts," Koppal is renowned for its ancient temples, forts, and archaeological sites dating back to the Vijayanagara Empire and other dynasties. The district is a popular destination for history buffs, pilgrims, and nature enthusiasts, featuring ancient monuments, wildlife sanctuaries, and scenic landscapes.

Geographically, Koppal is a stretch of rocky terrain on one side and acres of dry land on the other wherein agricultural crops like Jowar, Ground-nuts etc are grown.Farmers still use the old Bullock-Cart ploughing methods, depending mainly on the Monsoons which is a rarity in these parts of the world.However recently some of them have ventured into high-tech irrigational Farming especially after the Thunga-Bhadra river waters from the neighbouring town of Munirabad(20kms away with a huge Dam}is been redirected to the Town to solve it's water problems.So, the current product crops are Pomegranites,Grapes,and Figs{which are being exported}

Location info:

Koppal is located in the northern region of Karnataka, bordered by the districts of Raichur, Ballari, Gadag, and Bagalkot. The district headquarters, Koppal town, lies approximately 380 km from Bengaluru, the state capital, and is well-connected by road and rail.

Climate/Weather of Koppal District:

Summer (March-May): Hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from 28°C to 42°C. Monsoon (June-September): Receives moderate to heavy rainfall, with cooler temperatures between 20°C and 30°C, making it an ideal time to visit. Winter (October-February): Mild and pleasant, with temperatures from 15°C to 28°C, making it the best time for sightseeing.

History of Koppal District:

Koppal has a rich history that dates back to ancient India. It was an important center during the reign of the Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, and later the Vijayanagara Empire. The district is known for its role in the battle between the Vijayanagara and Bahmani Sultanates. The ancient town of Anegundi, located within Koppal, was the first capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Several ancient monuments, temples, and forts in the region reflect the architectural styles and cultural heritage of these powerful empires.

Anegundi of Gangavathi Taluk was the first capital of great Vijayanagara Dynasty. The old palace and fort still exist where annual festival called "Anegundi Utsava" is being celebrated in a befitting manner every year. The other important historical places of Koppal district are Itagi, Kukanoor, Madinoor, Indrakeela Parvatha, Kanakagiri, Pura, Chikkabenakal, Hirebenakal & Huligi.

Educational Institutions of Koppal District:

Institutions

  • Kendriya Vidyalaya Koppal
  • Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV), Koppal
  • Government Model Primary and High Schools
  • Private School
  • Pre-University (PU) Colleges
  • Govt First Grade College,yelburga
  • HRSM College
  • >

Langauge

The prominent language spoken is Kannada. Other languages like Marathi, Urdu,Telugu and Gujarati are also spoken by small portion of population.

Culture of Koppal District:

Koppal district in Karnataka is steeped in a rich cultural heritage shaped by centuries-old traditions, historical significance, and diverse communities. Known as the “City of Forts,” Koppal’s culture is a blend of folk traditions, religious practices, architectural wonders, and vibrant festivals.Festivals and Celebrations Festivals in Koppal are celebrated with enthusiasm and bring communities together. Some prominent festivals include: Hampi Utsav: Though centered in Hampi, the Hampi Utsav attracts people from Koppal as well, where dance, music, and folk arts showcase the heritage of the Vijayanagara Empire. Koppal Jatre: This local fair is celebrated in honor of village deities and features traditional performances, fairs, and folk music. Basava Jayanti: Celebrated in honor of Basavanna, a philosopher and social reformer, this festival includes processions, prayers, and cultural activities. Makar Sankranti and Ugadi: These are major festivals in Karnataka and are celebrated in Koppal with traditional rituals, special dishes, and family gatherings. Folk Arts and Music Folk arts play an essential role in Koppal's cultural identity. Some popular forms include:

How to reach Koppal District?

Nearest Airport:The nearest airport is Hubli Airport, about 160 km from Koppal. Alternatively, Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport is about 380 km away..

Road Transport: Koppal is accessible by road with regular buses and taxis available from major cities like Hubli, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.

  • Gangavathi Bus Station
  • Koppal Bus Station
  • Kushtagi Bus Station
  • Karatgi Bus Station
  • Kuknur Bus Station

Tourist Attraction

Gundlavaddigeri is an ancient village in Koppal District. It was a big city prior to Vijaynagara period. A 12th century stone deed in Halegannada (old Kannada), belonging to the Vijaynagara dynasty has been excavated from here. According to this deed, a lake was built in this village for irrigation. Now there are many dry lakes in this village.

Kanakagiri:
The old name of Kanakagiri town of Gangavathi taluk was Swarnagiri (means a "Hill of Gold"). It is said that Kanaka Muni, a saint, performed penance at this place. Kanakagiri was the headquarters of the southern area of the Mauryan Empire. During the Vijayanagar period, this was the chief town of the Bedar Rajas. Kanakachalapathi temple here is a specimen of the South Indian architecture of Vijayanagar times. The gopuram and walls have well-executed sculpture.

Anegundi:
Anegundi (means "Elephant Pit" in Kannada) is one of the most ancient places of Koppal district is situated on the left bank of the river Tungabhadra. It is said that, Anegundi is the place where the elephants of the Vijayanagara kings were kept. Anegundi, believed to be the monkey kingdom of Kishkinda in the epic of Ramayana. Anjanadri hill, the birth place of Hanuman (the monkey-god), and the mountain Rishimuka are the other places near Anegundi associated with Ramayana. The Ranganatha Temple and the Huchchappayana Matha are worth a visit. The Pampa Sarovara, the Kamal Mahal and Nava Brindavana housing the mortal remains of famous saints, are the other attractions around Anegundi.

Pampa Sarovar Lake in Koppal District is 45 km from Hampi. Lying south of Tungabhadra River, it is awe-inspiring. Pampa Sarovar is considered one of the five greatest sarovars in India.

Kanakagiri:
The old name of Kanakagiri town of Gangavathi taluk was Swarnagiri (means a "Hill of Gold"). It is said that Kanaka Muni, a saint, performed penance at this place. Kanakagiri was the headquarters of the southern area of the Mauryan Empire. During the Vijayanagar period, this was the chief town of the Bedar Rajas. Kanakachalapathi temple here is a specimen of the South Indian architecture of Vijayanagar times. The gopuram and walls have well-executed sculpture.

Kuknur:
Is a small town lying seven miles due north of Bannikoppa station on the Guntakal-Hubli railway line. The town, though now small, was an important place in the early and mediaeval days and is rich in antiquarian remains of the later Chalukyan style of architecture and these buildings range from the 8th to the 13th century A.D.The folklore speaks of this place as the legendary Kuntalapura of Mahabharata period. The Navalinga group of temples here represents early Chalukyan architecture. Two other important temples are Kalleshvara and Mallikarjuna.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation nearby Koppal District:

Budget Hotels in Koppal: Various budget-friendly hotels and lodges are available in Koppal town. Mid-range Hotels in Hospet and Gangavathi: These towns near Hampi offer a wider range of accommodations, including mid-range hotels and guesthouses. Homestays and Resorts near Hampi and Anegundi: For those looking to stay near historical sites, homestays and eco-resorts are available, providing a more immersive experience.

Koppal District Major Attraction

Hampi Archeology
Hampi, as it is popularly known today was the medieval capital of the Hindu empire Vijayanagara (the City of Victory). Hampi in the Karnataka state of India is listed as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.....more
Hampi Historical
Listed as a World Heritage Site, Hampi the city of ruins is one of the most captivating historical sites of South India. It houses as many as 500 monuments, each with a story behind it, reflecting a fascinating history reaching the pinnacle of glory and then stumbling to a decline of utter neglect.....more
Ittagi
There is a huge tank 7 km from Kukkanur in Ittagi village facing this tank is Mahadeva temple and a hist of small temples. It has a classic later Chalukyas plan, with a garbagruha (shrine) and a front hall (antarala) leading to the mandapa.....more
Tungabhadra River
The Tungabhadra River is a sacred river in southern India that flows through the states of Karnataka and part of Andhra Pradesh to merge with the larger Krishna River in Andhra Pradesh.It is the chief tributary of the Krishna River.....more