Ikkeri

AGHORESHWARA TEMPLE ( 16TH C/ HINDU)

Around 16th century small vassal kingdoms in Madurai,Tanjavur and Ikkeri sprang up. They were semi- independent from the Vijayanagara kingdom and were called Nayakas. The Nayakas of ikkeri reigned from 1540 to 1763 . The Aghoreshwara temple where Shiva is defied is a blend of Hoysala and Dravida style. Vengayya was the architect. This symmetrical temple is without any excessive decoration.
There is an Amman shrine and a unique Nandi shrine inside the laterite fence in addition to the main shrine. The whole temple along with Muka mandapa and shrine is made of hard black basalt stone. The mandapa has six pillars and the entrance to the shrine is magnificent. The vijayanagara style of construction is seen here. The sculpture on the outside entrance belong to the Hoysala style. The tower on the shrine sports an in- between style. This temple sits in a field 3 km from Sagar that is 100 km from Haveri.

Location info

• **Address:**From Bangalore to Shimoga 277Km

• **District:**Shimoga

• **Nearest City:**Bangalore

• Best time to visit: Between October and March

How to reach Ikkeri

• **Nearest Railway Station:**Hassan Railway Station is the nearest railhead.

• **Nearest Airport:**Mangalore Airport (200 km).and Bangalore International Airport are the nearest airports.

• **Road Transport:**Frequent buses are available from Hassan.

Hotels & accommodation nearby

Some of the major hotels in Shimoga are:
1.Jewel Rock Hotel
2.Sundar Ashraya
3.Hotel Navarathna International
4.Hotel Mathura Residency etc.

Nearest visiting places

• Agumbe Hillstation

Agumbe, a small village located in Karnataka for all those who wish to find peace with nature in the western ghats. It is known to be the wettest region in Karnataka receiving highest rainfall. The tiny village is much known for its beautiful sunset and the trek opportunities it offer

• Sharavathi Valley Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in Shimoga District, Sharavathi Valley Wildlife Sanctuary spans over 431 sq km. Apart from the area occupied by the Liganamakki Reservoir or Honnemaradu, the sanctuary is divided into core zone, buffer zone and tourism zone

• Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary

Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Shimoga District of Karnataka. It spreads over 395 sq km of tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen forests. The sanctuary is inhabited by tiger, leopard, wild dog, jackal, gaur, elephant, sloth bear, sambar deer, spotted deer, wild pig,

• Keladi

Keladi is 10 km away from Ikkeri and was the Nayaka capital. You enter the precincts with its several small shrines through a long-roofed wooden entrance

• Barkana Falls

Barkana Falls are among the ten highest waterfalls in India. They are located near Agumbe in Shimoga district of state of Karnataka. Barkana falls are formed by Sita river. Currently Barkana falls are the prime source of one of the hydro electric projects in Karnataka

• Honnemaradu Falls

Honnemaradu, the village, having been engulfed in the mid-1960s by the Liganamakki dam, has been literally resurrected today. This haven for water sport enthusiasts, tucked away in the lush greenery of the Western Ghats, is in the Shimoga District in north-west Karnataka, about 25 km from Sagar town on the way to Jog Falls

• Jog WaterFalls

The tallest and no doubt the most impressive waterfall in India, the Jog Falls(also known as the Gerusoppa waterfalls) is located about 400 kms from Bangalore in Karnataka. It is created by the Sharavathi River which comes down in cascades from a height of 292 meters at Gerusoppa in four distinct falls, called the Raja, Rani, Rover and Rocket

• Kunchikal Falls

Kunchikal Falls are the highest waterfalls in India and second highest waterfalls in Asia. They are located near Agumbe in Shimoga district of state of Karnataka. Kumchikal falls are formed by Varahi river. Currently Kunchikal falls are the prime source of one of the hydro electric projects in Karnataka

• Dandavathi River

Dandavathi is a river that flows in Sorab, India. It originates near Kuppe (Sorab taluk) and ends in the Varada river near Sagar. Sorab’s Sri Ranganatha temple is built on the bay of the Dandavathi river

• Sharavathi River

Sharavathi is a river which originates and flows entirely within the state of Karnataka in India. It is one of the few westward flowing rivers of India and a major part of the river basin lies in the Western Ghats. The famous Jog Falls are formed by this river

• Varada river

Varada River, the only source of water for the Sagar town, is the major river of Shimoga District. Sagar is an industrial town in the heart of the Western Ghats, Sagar is located in Shimoga District of Karnataka. It is 75 km north-west of Shimoga

• Varahi River

Varahi River is a river flowing through Western Ghats to Basrur, Kundapur and Gungulli in western India. Varahi is a west flowing river which takes its birth in the Western Ghats at Hebbagilu, near Agumbe in Shimoga District

• Gudavi Bird Sanctuary

Sorab taluk of Shimoga district, comes alive in June as the energetic chirping of birds fills the air. The tree-lined banks of the Gudavi Lake become a brilliant mosaic of colours, with branches buried under bright plumage

• Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary

The Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary is situated in the Malenaadu region under the Shimoga district, towards Theerthahalli in Karnataka. The Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary has a spectacular collection of migratory birds

• Gajanur Dam

Gajanur is a village 12 km from Shivamogga in the Shivamogga District of Karnataka, India. The Tunga River flows through the village. Gajanur is well known for the dam built across the river

Helpline & emergency contacts

• **Police Station:**100

• **Nearest Hospital:**Shimoga Institute of Medical Sciences.

• Society/Community Phone Number

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Karnataka. 4G is reliable in Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Hubli, and along highways. Coverage may be weaker in deep forest areas of Bandipur, Nagarhole, and certain Western Ghats sections. Most hotels, resorts, and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

Food & restaurants nearby

Food options are available in the nearest town. Karnataka cuisine ranges from coastal seafood to Udupi vegetarian to Coorg’s pandi curry. Dosa, idli, bisi bele bath, and filter coffee are iconic.

Climate & weather

Karnataka has a varied climate from the humid coast to the dry Deccan plateau and cool Western Ghats. The best time to visit is October to March, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C depending on region. April–May is hot across most of the state (up to 38°C). The southwest monsoon (June–September) brings heavy rain to the coast and ghats but transforms the landscape — this is the best time for Jog Falls and Coorg’s lush greenery. Hill stations (Coorg, Chikmagalur) remain pleasant year-round. Bangalore has a moderate climate throughout.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pumps are available in the nearest town or on the approach road — check locally for the closest option.

Best time to visit Ikkeri

October to March is the best time to explore historical sites in Karnataka — pleasant weather for walking and exploring. Early morning (6:00-9:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:00-5:30 PM) offers the best light for photography and comfortable temperatures.

Timings & opening hours

Typically 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) protected sites have specific hours — usually sunrise to sunset. Some monuments may close earlier.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry fee: ₹10-₹30 for Indian nationals, ₹100-₹500 for foreign nationals (varies by monument significance). Camera fee: ₹25-₹50 for still cameras. Video camera: ₹100-₹200. ASI monument passes and composite tickets may be available.

Duration needed

1-2 hours for a basic visit. History enthusiasts and photographers may want to spend 3-4 hours exploring the site in detail.

Safety tips

Do not climb on fragile structures or enter cordoned-off areas. Some monuments have uneven floors and staircases — watch your step. Carry water as some sites have limited facilities. Beware of monkeys at some locations — do not carry open food. Keep valuables secure.

Things to carry

Camera for photographs, water bottles, hat/cap, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, guidebook or audio guide (if available), and small change for entry fees.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest railway station depends on the site’s location. Nearest airport varies. The site is typically well connected by road from the nearest town.

History of Ikkeri

Ikkeri is an important archaeological site in Karnataka, offering valuable insights into the region’s ancient history. Archaeological excavations have revealed evidence of early settlements, trade links, and cultural developments spanning several centuries. The site continues to be studied by archaeologists and historians for its significance.

Things to do at Ikkeri

Explore the historical structures and ruins, admire the architectural details, photograph the monuments, learn about the site’s history through interpretive signage or guides, and appreciate the craftsmanship of ancient builders.

Things to visit & highlights

The main monument complex, any museum on site, inscriptions and artwork, surrounding archaeological landscape, and nearby related historical structures.

Frequently asked questions

Is the site protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)? Many major historical sites in Karnataka are ASI-protected monuments with designated entry fees and visiting hours.

Are there guides available? Licensed guides are available at major historical sites and offer valuable insights into the history and architecture.

What is the best time to avoid crowds? Early morning opening time (typically 6:00 AM) is the least crowded. Weekdays are quieter than weekends and holidays.

Quick facts

• Type: Destination
• State: Karnataka
• Category: Archaeology