Belgaum

Belgaum town is situated in the Belgaum district, in the north – western region of Karnataka of Southern India. Belgaum is a popular tourist destination in the Southern part of Karnataka owing to its rich historical background and natural beauty.

Belgaum is one among the oldest cities of Karnataka. It lies at a distance of about 504 km from Bangalore, 550 km from Mumbai, 159 km from Panaji and 336 km from Pune. Since Belgaum is located in between Maharashtra and Goa, the place has acquired a unique culture and heritage of its own.  

As per archaeological investigations, Belgaum was once known as Venugrama (Bamboo village) and was a part of the Chalukya Empire between the 6th and 8th century AD. The town of Belgaum was built during the 12th century by the rulers of the region, Rattas.

The rule of the Rattas in Belgaum was later followed by the Yadavas of Devangiri, which later was overrun by the great Vijaynagar Kingdom. During the 15th century, Belgaum was captured by the Bahamani rulers of the Deccan. Belgaum Fort, which was built by the Rattas, was renovated by the Bahamani rulers and several new monuments like Safa Masjid and Jamia Masjid were added to it.

Belgaum came under the rule of the Maratha Empire for a brief period after which the Adil Shahi rulers of Bijapur succeeded the area. Later, Belgaum was known by the name Azamnagar when it came under the rule of Aurangzeb during 1686.

Hyder Ali of Mysore captured and ruled Belgaum for a brief period but it was eventually taken over by the Peshwa with the assistance of the British. Belgaum became a prominent garrison town under the British for a long period. Belgaum played a major role during Indian Freedom Movement as well.

Belgaum is also known by the name ‘Malendu’ (Rain Country).  Belgaum town lies at the foothills of the Western Ghats which is responsible for the lush vegetation in the area. The scenic beauty of Belgaum and its surroundings has significantly improved the tourism industry.

Today, Belgaum is known for the Airmen Training School, an Indian Air Force training centre located at Sambra and the Commando School and School of Jungle Warfare of the Indian Army.

Belgaum Fort, Kamala Basti, St. Mary's Church, Mahadeva temple, Kapileshwara Temple, Safa Mosque, Gokak falls, Rakaskop, Jamboti, Varapoha Falls, etc. are some of the major tourist attractions of Belgaum.