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Hemavati River

Hemavati River

About:

The Hemavati River is a vital and picturesque river in the state of Karnataka, India. It flows primarily through the lush landscapes of the Western Ghats, offering a serene and scenic journey from its source to its confluence with the Kaveri River. Known for its pristine water, the Hemavati River supports an array of biodiversity, providing essential resources for agriculture, drinking water, and hydropower in the region. Dotted with historic sites and temples, the river is deeply embedded in local culture and spirituality. The Hemavati Reservoir, formed by the Hemavati Dam, is an important source of water for irrigation, supporting the livelihood of numerous farmers in the region.

Location info:
The Hemavati River originates from the Western Ghats in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka and flows through the districts of Hassan, Tumkur, and Mandya before joining the Kaveri River near Krishnarajasagara.

Climate/Weather:
The Hemavati River basin experiences a tropical climate. Summers are warm, while the monsoon season (June to September) brings substantial rainfall. The ideal time to visit is from October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant.

History:
The Hemavati River holds both historical and cultural significance in the region. The river is named after Hemavati, a mythological figure from Hindu folklore, who is said to have been cursed by the sage Jaratkaru to live as a river. This story links the river to ancient beliefs, adding to its cultural richness. In the modern era, the river has been harnessed for agricultural and hydropower purposes, with the construction of the Hemavati Dam near Gorur in the Hassan district. Completed in 1979, the dam created a large reservoir that provides irrigation and drinking water to nearby regions and supports electricity generation. The dam construction required relocating several villages and submerging large tracts of land, including a few temples, adding a complex layer of human history and sacrifice to the story of the river. Despite its use for development, the Hemavati River remains a symbol of natural beauty and cultural reverence for the people of Karnataka.

Interesting things to do:
Boating: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride in the Hemavati Reservoir, which offers scenic views of the surrounding hills and forests. Fishing: The reservoir is ideal for fishing enthusiasts, with various fish species present in its waters. Bird Watching: The river and its basin attract a variety of birds, making it a perfect spot for bird watchers, especially during the winter migration season. Photography: The natural beauty of the Hemavati River, along with the dam and surrounding landscapes, makes it an excellent location for photography.

Interesting things to Visit:
Hemavati Dam: A major attraction on the river, the dam offers impressive views and is an engineering marvel that controls the flow of the river. Shettihalli Church: This partially submerged Gothic-style church near the Hemavati Reservoir is a fascinating sight, especially during monsoon when it is partly underwater. Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Temple: Located in Hassan, this temple is dedicated to Lord Narasimha and offers a peaceful setting near the river.

Mobile range info:
Mobile connectivity around the Hemavati River and reservoir can vary. In populated areas near the dam or towns, connectivity is generally good, but it may weaken in more remote locations.

How to reach?
Nearest Railway Station: The nearest railway station is in Hassan, which is well-connected to other cities in Karnataka.
Nearest Airport: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, about 170 km away from the Hemavati Dam.
Road Transport:It is 170 kms from Mangalore and 240 kms Bangalore

Nearest Visiting places:
Belur: Known for the Chennakesava Temple, located about 40 km from the Hemavati River. Halebidu: Famous for its Hoysaleswara Temple, around 50 km from the river. Shravanabelagola: A major pilgrimage site, around 80 km from Hemavati.

Sringeri (98 kms): This well-known pilgrim centre is situated on the banks of Tunga river. Adishankara, exponent of the Advaita philosophy had founded this monastery.The chief attraction being the 12 zodiac pillars in the Vidya Shankara temple, which are so arranged that the Sun's rays fall on the particular pillar corresponding to the month.

Kudremukh (95 kms): Kudremukh South-west of Chilmagalur is the secluded hill station of Kudremukh. Situated 1894 m above sea level, the Kudremukh hills overlook the Arabian Sea and are chained to one another with deep valleys and steep precipices.

Bhandra Wildlife Sanctuary (38kms): North-west, this sanctuary is a must-see for wildlife enthusiasts. Gaur, chital, sambar, elephants and tigers are some of the wildlife found here.

Amruthapura: About 10 kms form Tarikere, this little town has a 800 year old temple dedicated to Amrutheswara.

Nearest Petrol Pump:
The nearest petrol pumps can be found in Hassan, which is about 10-15 km from the Hemavati Dam area.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:
Hassan offers a range of accommodations, from budget hotels to mid-range lodges and guesthouses. Some resorts and hotels in Chikmagalur also provide options for those looking for a comfortable stay.

Homestays & Estate Bungalows Nature Nirvana (Estate Bungalow), Castle Rock (Homestay), Kerehaklu Eco Retreat - Aldur, Thippanahalli (Homestay)

Things to carry:
Water and Snacks: Ensure you carry enough refreshments as options near the river may be limited. Protective Gear: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are advisable for outdoor activities. Insect Repellent: To stay protected from insects, especially during the rainy season. Binoculars: Ideal for bird watching and enjoying distant views of the reservoir and surrounding areas.

Tips & Suggestions:
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy pleasant temperatures and avoid crowds. During monsoon, the water levels can be high, so exercise caution around the river and dam. Respect the local culture and avoid littering to help preserve the natural beauty of the area.

Help Line/Phone Number:
local police station in Hassan100
Nearest Hospital:Chikmagalur

Hemavati River Nearest Attraction
Ramanathapura Temples
The temples of Ramanathapura stand testimony to the architectural grandeur of the Chola and Hoysala ages, writes B M Ravi Bettasoge.Hassan brings to one's mind art, culture and history. It has made a name for itself as a tourist destination, a haven of art and as a strong inter-link between the past and the future....more
Shravanabelagola Temples
Shravanabelagola is one of the most popular Jain pilgrim centers located in the Hassan district of Karnataka state. Shravanabelagola is at a distance of 52 Kms from Hassan town, the headquarters of the Hassan district and 146 Kms from Bangalore. In Kannada (the state language), 'Bel' means white and 'kola' means the pond, an allusion to the beautiful pond in the middle of the town.Shravanabelagola is wedged between two rocky hills - Vindyagiri and Chandragiri. ....more
Belur Archeology
Belur was the early capital of the Hoysala Empire. With Halebidu which is only 16 km away, this is one of the major tourist destinations in Karnataka, India. Belur is located in Hassan district. According to inscriptions discovered here, it was also referred to as Velapuri.Belur is the Chennakesava temple complex which contains the Chennakesava Temple....more
Halebid Archeology
The present day Halebid was earlier known as Dorasamudra. This was the capital of the Hoyasala kingdom, which became prominent in the Mysore area in the 12th-13th century after the Ganga dynasty. The fort and pa;ace no longer exist. Now it is a small village with a group of temples.....more
Shravanabelagola Archeology
Jainism was born in Bihar in East India. When there was a great famine it is said that saint Bahubali along with his followers, came to Karnataka. The ruler of the Murya empire of the time Chandragupta, who considered Bahubali a sint , followed him and also undertook a fast unto death to propagate non-voilance.....more
Belur Historical
Belur in Hassan district (222 kms from Bangalore and 38 kms from Hassan) is famous for its magnificent Hoysala Temple Complex. The Chennakeshava temple here was completed in 1116 by Hoysala Vishnuvardhana to commemorate his victory over the Chola.....more
Doddagadduvalli
About 16km (10 miles) from Hassan on the way to Belur is Doddagaddavalli, a village popular for the 12th century Lakshmi Devi temple.Doddagaddavalli is set in a scenic rural environment. According to the legends the temple was built in 1114 A.D. by a merchant called Kallahana Rahuta, a merchant or high officer in the Hoysala court.....more
Halebid Historical
Halebidu is located in Hassan district in Karnataka.Ketumalla, the chief of staff of Hoysala Kingdom, built this temple during 1121 A.D and attributed to his king, Vishnuvardhana and queen, Shantala Devi. Even then it is learnt that it took 105 years to complete.....more
Harnavalli Archeology
In the 13th century when the Hoysala kingdom was at the peak of it's power, a temple was constructed in every area, its detailed sculptures and decorations.....more
Shrvanabelogola Historical
Shravanabelagola is one of the most popular Jain pilgrim centers located in the Hassan district of Karnataka state. Shravanabelagola is at a distance of 52 Kms from Hassan town, the headquarters of the Hassan district and 146 Kms from Bangalore.....more
Koravangala Archeology
Koravangala is a store house of Hoysala architecture. This scenic village, earlier called Kora Mangala, is home to three Hoysala style temples of the 12th century. All the temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva....more
Bisle Ghat Hills
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Mosale Archeology
....more