Vedavathi River
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About:
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The Vedavathi River, also known as the Hagari River in some areas, is a
prominent river in the southern Indian state of Karnataka. It is a tributary
of the Tungabhadra River and flows through the districts of Chikkamagaluru,
Chitradurga, and Bellary. The river is an important source of water for
agriculture and domestic needs in the region, and it also has religious
significance, with connections to Hindu mythology.
The River then flows down to the Southeastern state of Andhra Pradesh where
the river is called the `Hagari`. The river has a cultural importance with
the people along the zone of the Hagari that depends completely on the river
for most of their requirements. The Vedavathi is a tributary to the
Tungabhadra, and merges with the Tungabhadra near Mantralaya.
About :Chitradurga :Chitradurga district is an administrative district of
Karnataka state in southern India. The city of Chitradurga is the district
headquarters. Chitradurga gets its name from Chitrakaldurga, an
umbrella-shaped lofty hill found there. Tradition dates Chitradurga District
to the period of the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The whole district lies in
the valley of the Vedavati River, with the Tungabhadra River flowing in the
northwest. During the British times it was named Chitaldrug. The district
was practically ruled by all the well known dynasties that ruled Karnataka.
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Location info:
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The Vedavathi River originates in the Western Ghats, near the Talakaveri Hills
in Chikkamagaluru district, Karnataka. It flows eastward through the districts
of Chitradurga and Bellary before joining the Tungabhadra River near the border
of Andhra Pradesh.
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Climate/Weather:
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Summer (March-May): Warm to hot, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 38°C.
Monsoon (June-September): Heavy rainfall due to the southwest monsoon, leading
to an increase in river flow and filling nearby reservoirs and dams.
Winter (October-February): Pleasant and cool, with temperatures between 15°C to
25°C, making it an ideal time to visit.. |
History:
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The Vedavathi River holds cultural and religious importance. It is believed
that the river’s name is linked to Vedavati, a character in Hindu mythology
who meditated on the banks of this river. According to legend, Vedavati was
reborn as Sita, the wife of Lord Rama, from the epic Ramayana. The river
also supports traditional agricultural practices in Karnataka and has been a
lifeline for villages and communities along its banks for centuries. The
Vani Vilasa Sagara Dam, built on the Vedavathi River, was constructed during
the British era and is one of the oldest dams in Karnataka.
Timmana Nayaka a chieften under the Vijayanagar empire rose to the rank of
governor of Chitradurga as a reward for his excellence in military
achievements, from the Vijayanagara ruler. This was the beginning of the
rule of the Nayakas of Chitradurga. His son Obana Nayaka is known by the
name Madakari Nayaka 1588 CE. Madakari Nayaka's son Kasturi Rangappa 1602
succeeded him and consolidated the kingdom to rule peacefully. As he had no
heirs to succeed him, his adopted son, the apparent heir was enthroned but
was killed in few months by the Dalavayis.
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Interesting things to do:
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Picnicking and Relaxing on Riverbanks: Several spots along the river provide
beautiful, quiet spaces for picnicking and relaxing with scenic views.
Exploring Vani Vilasa Sagara Dam: This historic dam is a popular spot for
sightseeing, photography, and learning about the region’s history.
Bird Watching: The river and nearby forests attract a variety of bird species,
ideal for bird watchers and photographers.
Trekking in Nearby Hills: Some areas along the river, especially near the
Western Ghats, offer opportunities for trekking and exploring the region’s
natural beauty. |
Interesting things to Visit:
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Vani Vilasa Sagara Dam: Also known as the Marikanive Dam, it is one of the
oldest dams in Karnataka and provides scenic views of the river and
surrounding hills.
Chitradurga Fort: Located near Chitradurga, this historic fort has ancient
temples, fortifications, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding
landscape.
Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Hemavathi: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord
Vishnu, located close to the Vedavathi River.
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary: Located in the Western Ghats, this sanctuary is
rich in biodiversity and offers wildlife viewing opportunities.
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Mobile range info:
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Mobile network coverage is generally good in towns and villages along the
Vedavathi River. However, remote sections near the Western Ghats may have
limited connectivity due to forested areas.
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How to reach?
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Nearest Railway Station: Chitradurga and Davanagere have railway stations
with connections to major cities in Karnataka.
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Nearest Airport:The nearest airport is Kempegowda International Airport
in Bangalore, around 200 km from Chitradurga.
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Road Transport:Hiryur is situated along National Highway 4. Hiriyur is
located 160 km north of Bangalore. All the buses from Bangalore going towards
Hubli, Belgaum, Davanagere, Bellary pass through Hiriyur. Accessible by
road, this fortress lies on the outskirts of what is Chitradurga today. City of
Chitradurga is located at the junction of NH-4 (Bangalore-Pune National Highway)
and NH-13 (Sollapur-Mangalore National Highway). |
Nearest Visiting places:
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Chitradurga Fort: A massive fort with historical significance, located around 30
km from the Vedavathi River.
Hampi: A UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its ancient temples and ruins,
located about 100 km from Bellary, near the Tungabhadra River.
Bhadra Dam and Wildlife Sanctuary: Located in Chikkamagaluru district, it’s a
popular destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Chitradurga Fort is renowned for its Kallina Kote / Ukinna kote / Elu Suttina
kote which was built in parts by the Palegar Nayakas, Hyder Ali and Tipu
Sultan. It comprises a series of seven enclosure walls in Kannada. Eighteen
ancient temples can be found inside the fort. This seemingly impregnable
fort has 19 gateways, 38 posterior entrances, a palace, a mosque, granaries,
oil pits, four secret entrances and water tanks. The rulers of this fort
built 2000 watch towers to guard and have a better look at enimies movement
all the time
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Nearest Petrol Pump:
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Petrol pumps are available in nearby towns like Chitradurga and Davanagere,
along major highways connecting to the Vedavathi River region. It’s recommended
to refuel before venturing into rural or remote areas.
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Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:
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Guesthouses in Chitradurga: Various budget and mid-range accommodations are
available for travelers visiting the Vedavathi River area.
Hotels in Davanagere: Several comfortable hotels are available in Davanagere,
including options for budget and mid-range stays.
Homestays in Chikkamagaluru: For those exploring the Western Ghats and nearby
rivers, homestays provide a cozy, traditional experience. |
Things to carry:
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Comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking and exploring outdoor
areas.
Sun protection, including a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Water bottle and snacks, particularly for areas with limited food options.
Camera and binoculars for capturing scenic views and spotting wildlife.
Personal essentials and any necessary medications. |
Tips & Suggestions:
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Visit during the winter for the best weather and most comfortable conditions.
If planning to picnic or hike along the river, avoid littering and respect the
local environment.
Exercise caution near the river during the monsoon, as water levels may rise
significantly.
If visiting the Vani Vilasa Sagara Dam, follow safety guidelines, as some areas
around the dam may be restricted.
Plan your travel in advance, especially if visiting nearby attractions like
Chitradurga Fort or the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary. |
Help Line/Phone Number:
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Karnataka Tourism Helpline:080-2235-2828 |
Local Police Station (Chitradurga):+91-8194-222-350 |