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Shimsha River

Shimsha River

About:

The Shimsha River is a tributary of the larger Cauvery River and flows through the state of Karnataka, India. Known for its scenic beauty and historical significance, the Shimsha River originates in the Devarayanadurga hills near Tumkur and flows for about 221 km before joining the Cauvery. This river supports agriculture in the region and is a key source of water for the Shimsha Hydroelectric Project, one of Karnataka’s oldest hydroelectric plants.

Power generation: Shimsha has its waterfall at Shimshapura in Malavalli Taluk. This is also the location of the Shimsha Hydro Electric Project which has an installed capacity of 17,200 kilowatts. It was the first ever hydro electric project in Asia. Kolar Gold Fields was supplied with the electricity generated in the year 1902. Three years later Bangalore was electrified. (Prjavani daily 16th Oct 08) The foundation stone for this project was laid by Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV, the king of Mysore in December 1937.

Location info:
The Shimsha River flows through Karnataka, primarily across districts such as Tumkur, Mandya, and Chamarajanagar. The river flows past scenic areas and small towns before merging with the Cauvery River.

Climate/Weather:
Summer (March-May): Warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. Monsoon (June-September): The region experiences heavy rainfall, which rejuvenates the river and enhances the surrounding greenery. Winter (October-February): Cool and pleasant, with temperatures between 15°C and 25°C, ideal for sightseeing.

History:

Historically, the Shimsha River has been significant for supporting agriculture and livelihoods in Karnataka. It has also played a role in early hydroelectric development, with the Shimsha Hydroelectric Project established in 1940. This project marked an important step in Karnataka’s efforts toward harnessing hydroelectric power and managing water resources.

Interesting things to do:
Picnicking by the River: The scenic banks of the Shimsha are perfect for picnicking, especially around the falls and forested areas. jathra/Car festival, an annual Car festival is held during Phalguna Masa shuddha poornima day some where in the Month of March/April in Devarayanadurga. On this day the chariot/car/Ratha of Sri Bhoga Narasimhaswamy is drawn in the main Ratha beedhi of the hill town. The festival draws devotees from all over Bangalore-Tumkur and surrounding region.

Visit Shimsha Falls: Located near Malavalli, the Shimsha Falls (also known as Chunchi Falls) is a beautiful spot where the river cascades over rocky terrain, especially picturesque during the monsoon.

Interesting things to Visit:
Shimsha Hydroelectric Project: Visit this historic power station, one of Karnataka’s oldest, to understand the state’s hydroelectric history.
BhogaNaraishma temple is at the base of the hill and Yoga Narasimha temple is on top of the hill. Temple of Yoga Narasimha

Mobile range info:
Most mobile networks provide coverage in towns and areas around the Shimsha River, although certain rural or forested locations near the river may have weaker signals.

How to reach?
Nearest Railway Station: Tumkur and Mandya are the closest major railway stations.
Nearest Airport:The nearest airport is Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore, about 120 km from the Shimsha River area.
Road Transport:The Shimsha River is accessible by road from Bangalore and Mysore. Buses and taxis can be hired to reach popular spots along the river, like Chunchi Falls.

Nearest Visiting places:
Tumkur district is an administrative district in the state of Karnataka in India. The district headquarters are located at Tumkur. The district occupies an area of 10,598 km2 and had a population of 2,584,711, of which 19.62% were urban as of 2001. [1] It is a one and a half hour drive from Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka.

The area of the district is 4158 m2. It consists chiefly of elevated land intersected by river valleys. A range of hills rising to nearly 4,000 feet (1,200 m) crosses it from north to south, forming the watershed between the systems of the Krishna and the Kaveri. The principal streams are the Jayamangala and the Shimsha. The mineral wealth of Tumkur is considerable; iron is obtained in large quantities from the hill-sides; and excellent building-stone is quarried. The slopes of the Devarayanadurga hills, a tract of 18 m2., are clothed with forests, in which large game abounds, including tigers, leopards, bears and wild hog. The annual rainfall averages 39 inches.

Nearest Petrol Pump:
Petrol pumps are available in nearby towns such as Tumkur, Mandya, and Maddur. It is advisable to refuel in these towns if planning to visit remote areas near the river.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:
Shimoga Hotel, Tumkur: Budget-friendly with comfortable amenities. Royal Orchid Brindavan Garden Palace & Spa, Mysore: For a luxury experience near the Cauvery River. Hotel Mayura River View, Srirangapatna: Ideal for visitors exploring nearby attractions.

Things to carry:
Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the riverbanks. Sun protection, including a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Camera or binoculars for capturing scenic views and wildlife. Light snacks and water, especially if visiting remote areas. Personal essentials, such as medications and first-aid supplies.

Tips & Suggestions:
Visit during the monsoon or winter for the best views of the river and waterfalls. Exercise caution near the riverbanks, especially during the monsoon season, when water levels may rise quickly. Respect local customs and avoid littering in natural areas. If visiting Shimsha Falls, follow safety guidelines, as rocks around the falls can be slippery.

Help Line/Phone Number:
Karnataka Tourism Helpline: 080-2235-2828
Local Police Station (Tumkur):+91-816-227-7000

Shimsha River Nearest Attraction
Aralaguppe
There are Hoysala temples here belonging to the last days of the Hoysala dynasty. The Kalleshwara temple of the much older Noramba dynasty is famous here. Noramba dynasty ruled the Karnataka area at the same time as the West Ganga dynasty and built many temples here.....more
Kaggaladu Heronry Sanctuary
A nondescript village in Tumkur district wakes up each year to the raucous cries and colourful plumage of painted storks and grey herons as they nest on old tamarind trees amidst the houses. This is the only place in Karnataka where these species nest side by side.....more
Marconahally Dam
A large minor irrigation project dam built in 1942 by the British.Markonahalli Dam is a dam built across the river Shimsha in the Kunigal Taluk of Tumkur district. It was built by Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV, the king of Mysore under the guidance of his Diwan, Sir M Visweswaraiah.Constructed across river Shimsha.....more