Chikballapur District

About Chikballapur District

The Government of Karnataka formed Chickballapur taluk in 1968. It consists of 250 Revenue villages, 22 Grama Panchayaths and 1 City Municipal Coucil. Annual rainfall in the town is 15cm the kind of soil is red. Being well connected with Kolar and other taluk places, the town has developed rapidly. It is famous for its silk business. It is a commercial center and a center of silk industry.

Chikkaballapur district is a newly created district in the state of Karnataka, India. It was carved out of the existing Kolar district by moving the taluks of Gowribidanur, Gudibanda, Bagepalli, Chikkaballapur, Sidlaghatta and Chintamani into the new district.In the language of the state, Kannada, it is called Chikkaballapura.Chikka means small in Kannada.

Chickballapur is the District Headquarters of the newly created (2007 August) District of Chickballapur in the state of Karnataka, India. Sometimes, Chickballapur is spelled Chickaballapura.It is well connected to important towns by the state run buses. The nearest airport is at Bengaluru.

The temples of Chikballapur district are astounding creations in the south Indian state of Karnataka, bearing the magnificent Chola architecture.

Chickballapur District consist of 6 taluks.
1. Bagepalli
2. Chickballapura
3. Chintamani
4. Gudibande
5. Gowaribidanur
6. Shiddalgatta

The town of Chickballapur is approximately 56 km north of Bengaluru (formerly Bangalore), the silicon plateau of India. The north-south National Highway NH-7 goes through the town.

History

The ruler of Avathi Mallabiregowda’s son Marigowda was hunting one day at Kodimanchanahalli forest. A rabbit was standing in front of the dogs without fear. Seeing this, ruler was very happy and told his son that is due to the boldness of the people of this place. As such the ruler took permission from king of Vijaynagar and built a fort and formed a town. This in future becomes chickballapur. During the ruling of Baichegowda king of Mysore attacked the fort but had to withdraw due to the interference of Marathas. Sri Dodda Byregowda who came to power after baichegowda acquired the land, which was taken by Mysore king.

In 1762 during the ruling of Chikkappanayaka, Hyder Ali captured the town for a period of 3 months. Then Chikkappanayaka agreed to pay 5-lakhs pagodas, and then the army was taken back.

After this, Chikkappa Nayaka with the help of Murariraya of Guthy tried to get back his powers. He was hiding at Nandi hills along with Chikkappa Nayaka. Immediately Hyder Ali acquired Chickballapur and other places and arrested Chikkappa Nayaka. Then with interfere of Lord Corn Wallis, Chickballapur was handed over to Narayanagowda. After knowing this, Tippu Sultan again acquired Chickballpaur.

In 1791 British occupied Nandi & left Narayanagowda to rule the town. Due to this fight between Britishers and Tippu Sultan again started. Narayanagowda lost his administration. Later on British defeated Tippu. Chickballapur also came under the administration of Wodeyars of Mysore, which is now a part of Karnataka.

Educational Institutions

• ➜ Government First Grade College
• ➜ K V College of Education
• ➜ KVT Polytechnic
• ➜ Municipal College of Pharmacy
• ➜ Panchagiri Pre University College
• ➜ Sir MVM Pre University College
• ➜ Sri Jagadguru Chandrashekaranatha Swamiji Institute of Technology
• ➜ Sri K V College of Education
• ➜ Sri K V College of Pharmacy
• ➜ Sri KVT Polytechnic
• ➜ Sri Sathya Sai Pre-University College
• ➜ Vishnupriya College of Management Studies

Tourist Attraction

The temples of Chikballapur district have rare combination of traditional Chola forms and contemporary style of constructions. Rangasthala is a beautiful temple in this district, located on the way from Chikballapur to Gouribidanur. This temple is built in the Vijayanagar style and dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Bhoganandeeshwara Temple is one of the important temples of Chikballapur district; situated in the Nandi village constructed around 806 A.D. by Rathnavalli of Bana Dynasty is in Dravidian style. This temple is widely known in south India for its ancient architecture.

Sri. Arunachaleswara temple is located nearby Boganandiswara temple built out of soapstone. This temple is one of the unique examples in this district that suggests the innovative art.

Mudenahalli : One can experience scenic beauty of the hillocks surrounding this place and one can visit Sir M.Viseweswariah’s residence and Museum

Nandi Hills : A very good summer destination which has a history of its own,Tippu Drops a key attraction spot to be visited you will locate this at the cliff

The famous hill station of Nandi Hills is situated nearby and within the jurisdiction of Chickballapur taluk. The eminent engineer and statesman Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvarayya was born in Muddenahalli, about 3 km. from Chickballapur. Many historic temples are situated in and near this town. There are many educational institutions are situated in Chickballapur. SJCIT[Sri. Jagadguru Chandrashekaranatha Swamiji Institute of Technology] is a famous engineering institute established in 1986 and imparting education at the level of BE. Sri Bhagavan Sathya Saibaba’s school and college are about 3 km. from Chickballapur. Nandi Hills or Nandi Durg is located in Chickballapur Taluq and is just 3 to 5 km away. Chickballpur has a small lake called Kandavara Lake which is dry most of the time. “Panchagiri” is a common word used in Chickballapur as it is surrounded by 5 hills among which Nandi Hills is the famous one. The Kalavara halli hill Kalavaara betta, is becoming famous because of the trecking involved to reach the top of the hill.

There are five hills, locally known as Pancha Giris. The five hills are known locally as Nandi Giri, Chandra Giri, Indra Giri, Brahma Giri, and Hema Giri.

Chintamani: This town is named after its founder Chintamani Rao, a maratha chieftain. It is famous for its gold and silver trade.and its agarbathi (incense) industry.

Gummanayaka Fort: This fort is situated 16 Kms. east of Bagepalli, was founded around 1350 by a feudatory chieftain. Gummanayaka and ruled for several years by him and his successors. It is noted for its fortified circular rock, that rises 150 ft above the surrounding hilly tract.

**Rangasthala:**On the way from Chikkaballapur to Gouribidanur, this village has a beautiful temple of Lord Ranganatha (Vishnu) in the Vijayanagar style.

**Kaivara:**This town is associated with the epic, Mahabharatha. Known as Ekchakrapura, this is where the Pandavas lived in exile, incognito. Bhima, one of the Pandava brothers is said to have killed the asura (demon) Bakasura, who was tormenting the people.

Tippudrop:A steep deep in the south west of Nandi hill is named as Tippu drop. During Tippu’s regime Prisoners punished to death were pushed from this point.

**Jakkalamadagu Dam:**Jakkalamadagu is the main source of drinking water for Chikballapur Town.

Neharu Guest House:Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru visited Nandi hills. A Guest house has been constructed in his memory, which is maintained by the department of Horticulture. Nehru Nilaya was the venue for SAARC summit.

Viswesharaiah Tomb: Tomb of Sir M.Visweswaraiah at Muddenahalli, Chikballapur.

**Srinivasa Sagara Kere:**It is a beautiful lake, near chikballapur.

Bhoganandeeswara & Yoganandeeswara: Nandi hills are a resort at a distance of about 60km north of Bangalore. Here, are wo ancient temples, the Bhoganandeeswara temple at the foothills and the Yoganandeeswara hill temple.

Surasadmagiri Hill-Gudibanda:Surasadmagiri hill is located to the north west of Gudibanda Town. Byregowda a palyagara who ruled over the constructed a fort on the hill is a historical sight.

Skandagiri: Skandagiri near Nandi Hills though not so famous as the later. You can reach Chickballapur (55 km) in one hour by bus. From there, you have to go to what is known as Paapagni Math (5 kms) and that is the foot of the Skandagiri. There are some old temples at the top and a small water spot.

Amrutha Sarovara : This lake atop hill is formed by the water-lets flowing from the hills. It has clear cooling water with does not dry throughout the year.

Brahmashram It is said that Sage Ramakrishna Paramhamsa meditated here. It’s a cool cave with serene environment. The place has big rock structures.

Location info

The town of Chickballapur is approximately 56 km north of Bengaluru (formerly Bangalore), the silicon plateau of India. The north-south National Highway NH-7 goes through the town.

How to reach Chikballapur District

• **Nearest Railway Station:**It is well connected by trains to south india

• **Nearest Airport:**Bangalore International Airport

• **Road Transport:**The north-south National Highway NH-7 goes through the town.Well connected by roads

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.

Hotels & accommodation nearby

Accommodation is available in the nearest town or city. Options range from budget lodges to luxury resorts. Booking ahead during Dasara (Mysore) and peak winter season is recommended.

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.

Helpline & emergency contacts

Tourist Helpline: 1364 (toll-free, 24×7). Police: 112 (all-India emergency). Ambulance: 108. Women’s Helpline: 1091. Karnataka Police Tourist Helpline: 112.

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 Chikballapur District

October to March is the best time to explore cities in Karnataka — pleasant weather for sightseeing. November to February offers comfortable temperatures perfect for outdoor exploration. Summer (April-June) can be hot — plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening.

Timings & opening hours

City attractions have varying hours. Most shops and markets operate from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Temples and heritage sites typically open 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Malls and restaurants stay open until late.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry fees vary by attraction within the city. Most parks and public spaces are free. Museums: ₹20-₹100 for Indian nationals, ₹100-₹500 for foreign nationals. Heritage sites: nominal entry fee.

Duration needed

2-3 days is ideal to explore the main attractions of the city. A day trip can cover the highlights. Week-long stays allow for in-depth exploration including day trips to nearby attractions.

Safety tips

Karnataka’s cities are generally safe for tourists. Take standard precautions: keep valuables secure, avoid isolated areas after dark, use registered taxis or app-based cabs at night, and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.

Things to carry

Comfortable walking shoes, camera, water bottle, sunscreen, hat, city map or smartphone with navigation, power bank, light jacket for air-conditioned venues, and identification documents.

Nearby visiting places

Nearby attractions include other cities in the region, historical sites, temples, nature spots, and recreational areas within a day-trip distance.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

The city has its own railway station and bus stand. The nearest domestic/international airport connects to major cities. City buses, auto-rickshaws, app-based taxis, and rental cars are available for local transport.

Things to do at Chikballapur District

Explore the city’s heritage sites, museums, and markets. Visit temples, churches, or mosques. Enjoy local cuisine at restaurants and street food stalls. Shop for local handicrafts and specialities. Experience the city’s nightlife and cultural events. Take day trips to nearby attractions.

Things to visit & highlights

Historical landmarks and heritage buildings, museums and art galleries, shopping areas and markets, parks and gardens, religious sites, and cultural centres showcasing local art and performances.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best way to get around the city? Auto-rickshaws, app-based cabs (Uber/Ola), and city buses are available in most Karnataka cities. Walking is ideal for exploring compact city centres.

What local dishes should I try? Karnataka cities offer diverse cuisine — try dosa, idli, bisi bele bath, ragi mudde, and local seafood (in coastal cities). Don’t miss the famous filter coffee.

Is the city safe for solo travellers? Karnataka’s cities are generally safe. Take standard precautions: avoid isolated areas at night, use registered transport, and keep valuables secure.

Quick facts

• Type: Destination
• State: Karnataka
• Category: District Of

Photo gallery of Chikballapur District

Photos coming soon. In the meantime, you can find images of Chikballapur District on popular travel photography sites and social media.