FREE HolidayIQ Newsletter Deals, holiday ideas & more
SIGHTSEEING HIGHLIGHTS
The Madhukeshwara temple is the main attraction in this place. There are also other temples to see notably, the Veerabhadra temple, which is a classical example of ancient Dravidian architecture.
There are many Jain icons and temples in and around Banavasi that can be explored- Asthana Mantapa and Triloka Mantapa in Sirsi. However, rambling through the ruins of the Buddhist stupas and ancient settlements can be an enriching experience.
Travelling around Banavasi is a pleasurable experience with Sirsi (22 km away) being a haven of waterfalls, namely the Magod falls, Jog falls and Unchelli falls.
Other activities
In December, you can enjoy Kadambothsav, the cultural festival organized by the State Government showcasing the traditional dances, classical music, art exhibitions and various drama troupes by artists from all over South India.
Just on the border of Uttara Kannada and Shimoga districts, near Sirsi, lies the tiny temple town of Banavasi on the banks of the River Varadha. This ancient temple town has the distinction of being the oldest city next to Varanasi. It has a rich legacy going back to the 9th century, when it was the capital of the Kadambas, the first royal dynasty of Karnataka. The main attraction in Banavasi is the famous Madhukeshwara temple dedicated to Lord Shiva on the banks of the river Varadha.
