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Lakshmana Tirtha River

Lakshmana Tirtha River

About:

The Lakshmana Tirtha River is a small but significant river that flows through the southern part of Karnataka, India. Known for its historical and mythological significance, this river is a tributary of the Kaveri River and is revered by locals for its sacred association with Hindu mythology. The river flows through picturesque landscapes, including dense forests, coffee plantations, and charming villages, and is essential to the region’s ecology and water supply. The river is also a vital source of irrigation, supporting agriculture in the surrounding areas.

Location info:
The Lakshmana Tirtha River originates in the Brahmagiri Hills of the Western Ghats in Karnataka, near the town of Kutta in Kodagu (Coorg) district. It flows southward, passing through the town of Srimangala and joining the Kaveri River near the town of Hunsur in the Mysore district.

Climate/Weather:
The climate in the river’s region is tropical, with heavy monsoons from June to September and mild, pleasant winters from November to February. Summers can be warm, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C, while winter temperatures generally range between 15°C and 25°C.

History:
The Lakshmana Tirtha River holds a prominent place in Hindu mythology, closely tied to the epic Ramayana. According to legend, Lakshmana, the brother of Lord Rama, created the river by shooting an arrow into the earth to provide water for Sita, who was thirsty during their forest exile. This act led to the formation of the Lakshmana Tirtha, which has since been considered sacred. Over centuries, the river has remained an essential water source and a site of religious significance for devotees who visit the temples along its banks. The river’s banks are dotted with various temples and sacred spots where devotees perform rituals, bathe, and offer prayers. The surrounding Kodagu region has a rich history of local kings and tribal communities who considered the river as a life-giving force for agriculture and daily life. The Lakshmana Tirtha thus symbolizes both the religious and cultural heritage of Karnataka and stands as a testament to the region’s deep-rooted mythology and traditions.

Interesting things to do:
River Bathing: Visitors often take a holy dip in the river, particularly near temples. Trekking: The river’s course through the Brahmagiri Hills offers scenic trails for trekking. Nature Photography: Capture the river’s picturesque flow through forests and villages.

Interesting things to Visit:
Irupu Falls: A beautiful waterfall on the Lakshmana Tirtha, known for its stunning natural surroundings. Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary: Located nearby, it’s ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers.

Mobile range info:
Mobile connectivity is generally available near towns and larger villages along the river, but coverage may be weak or unavailable in deeper forested areas near its origin.

How to reach?
Nearest Railway Station:Mysore Railway Station, about 80 km away, is the nearest major railway station.
Nearest Airport: The closest airport is Kannur International Airport, approximately 120 km away, and Mysore Airport is around 80 km away.
Road Transport:The nearest town, Kutta, is well-connected by road from Madikeri and Mysore.

Nearest Visiting places:
Nagarhole National Park: Known for its rich biodiversity and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Madikeri: The main town in Kodagu, famous for its coffee plantations and Raja’s Seat viewpoint.

Iruppu Falls: A sacred spot in south Kodagu in the Brahmagiri hill range. The Lakshmana Tirtha River flows nearby. Legend says that Rama and Lakshmana passed this way while searching for Sita. Sri Rama asked Lakshmana to fetch some drinking water for him. Lakshmana shot an arrow into the Brahmagiri hills and brought into being the river Lakshmanatirtha. The river descends into a cataract known as the Iruppu Falls. This place is said to possess the power to cleanse one's sins and is visited by thousands of devotees on Shivaratri day.

Abbey Falls: a scenic waterfall 5 km from Madikeri.

Dubare: mainly an elephant-capturing and training camp of the Forest Department at the edge of Dubare forest; on the bank of the river Kaveri along the Kushalanagara - Siddapur road.

Nearest Petrol Pump:
The closest petrol pumps are in Kutta and Srimangala, about 10-20 kilometers from different points along the river.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:
Accommodations are available in Kutta, Srimangala, and Madikeri, ranging from budget homestays to mid-range hotels. The region also offers nature resorts and forest lodges for a closer experience with nature.

Things to carry:
Water Bottles: Essential for hydration, especially if trekking along the river. Binoculars: Useful for birdwatching, particularly in forested areas. Sunscreen and Hat: The sun can be strong, so protection is necessary. Insect Repellent: Helpful to avoid insect bites in forested regions. Comfortable Footwear: Ideal for trekking or exploring trails along the river.

Tips & Suggestions:
Best Time to Visit: The post-monsoon and winter seasons (October to February) are ideal, as the river is full and the weather is pleasant. Safety Precautions: Exercise caution while trekking or walking near the riverbanks, especially during monsoons when the current can be strong. Respect Local Customs: Many places along the river have religious significance, so dress modestly and follow local customs. Wildlife Awareness: Be aware of your surroundings in forested areas, as the region is home to diverse wildlife.

Help Line/Phone Number:
Kodagu District Forest Office:+91-8272-221402.

Lakshmana Tirtha Nearest Attraction
Cauvery Nisargadama
This place is located in the Kodagu (Coorg) district of Karnataka very close to Kushal Nagar. Nisargadhama is around 120 kms from Mysore and around 260 kms from Bangalore. Located 4 kms before Kushal Nagar (when driving from Mysore), it is a small and circular island formed by the branching of river Cauvery....more
Kabini WildLIfe Sanctuary
Kabini is one of the most popular wildlife destinations of Karnataka, probably because of its easy accessibility, lush green landscape surrounding a large picturesque lake, and fantastic sightings of large herds of elephants. It is 80 km away from Mysore and 205 km from Bangalore, and comprises the south-eastern part of Nagarole National Park....more
Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary
Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Kodagu District covers an area of about 181 sq km. It is surrounded by evergreen and semi-green forests as well as shola grasslands....more
Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary
Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is one of 21 Wildlife Sanctuaries of India's Karnataka state. This sanctuary is located near Mandalpatty in Somwarpet taluk of Kodagu district and has some attractive scenery. Spread over 102 sq km, the sanctuary is situated in the Western Ghats and has thick evergreen and semi-evergreen forests....more
Talakaveri Wildlife Sanctuary
Talakaveri Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary in Southern Karnataka state of South India. It is located in Kodagu district and is spread over 105 km2 and lies in the Western Ghats. This sanctuary is named after Talakaveri, the origin of the Cauvery River which lies on the eastern edge of the sanctuary....more
Rajiv Gandhi National Park
Nagarhole National Park, also known as 'Rajiv Gandhi National Park,' is located 94 km from Mysore in Karnataka in Southern India. It is spread between Kodagu and Mysore districts. Located to the northwest of Bandipur National Park, Kabini reservoir separates the two....more
Abbey Waterfall
Karnataka boasts of some scenic and exotic hill stations that are frequented by those seeking the green and serene. Among them one such location would be the Abbey falls. This waterfalls also known as the Abbi falls....more
Irpu / Iruppu Waterfall
Irpu falls (or Iruppu falls) is situated at outskirts of Brahmagiri mountain range of Kodagu district. The falls is formed by Lakshmana theertha river when it jumps down in two tiers from a height of 52 mtrs (approximately 170 ft). The Irpu Falls, also known as the Lakshmana Tirtha Falls....more
Mallalli Waterfall
Mallalli falls is situated in the foots of pushpagiri hills. It in about 18 kms from somwarpet, the falls is 2 kms inside the main road. Mallalli Falls is situated in Coorg and is around 25 kms from Somwarpet and 260 kms from Bangalore....more
Nisargadhama Falls
Nisargadhama Falls in Karnataka is about 25km on the way to Madikeri from Bangalore. 2 kilometers from Kushalnagar, Nisargadhama is a beautiful island carved by the Cauvery. Karnataka's geographical topography is dominated by the Western Ghats that is the source of many rivers flowing though out the land....more
Kaveri River
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Harangi Dam
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