Davanagere District

About Davanagere District

Davanagare District, located in the heart of Karnataka owes its nomenclature to the term “ Davana Kere“ meaning “Village of Lake”. Occupying an area of 5924 sq. km and stretching between the geometric coordinates of 14°28’ N and 75°55’ E.

Davanagere District lies in the Maidan region on the Deccan Plateau. The district lies above the historic Chitradurga. The prominent cities/towns in this district are Harihara, Honnali and Channagiri. Neighbouring districts are Shimoga District, Haveri District, Chitradurga District, and Bellary District.

Davanagare District, located in the heart of Karnataka owes its nomenclature to the term “ Davana Kere“ meaning “Village of Lake”. The district is shrouded in antiquarian history, which dates back to the Chalukya and Pandya Dynasty.

Paddy, Sugar cane, Groundnut, Sunflower, Cotton, Jower, Ragi, Banana, Mango to list few which are priority crops. Davangere is also having growing community for change in traditional crops to medicine plants, floriculture and hybrid crops. Regulated market located in heart of Davangere city hosts platform for both farmer and dealer for business. Three Sugar mills are ideally located for sugar cane farmers, and also there are good number of farmers still run their own “halinamane” for jaggery. There are also numerous rice mills, oil extraction mills, cotton mills and agri related industries in and around city.

On 2nd March of 1934, Mahatma Gandhi visited Davangere and laid foundation stone for a high school. It’s not just beginning for educational era in Davangere but a major mile stone. Today there are 3 Engineering, 3 Medical, 2 Dental, 1 Fine Arts, and other professional courses like ayurveda, commerce, science, arts, agriculture, pharmacy and polytechnic. Kuvempu University’s study center, PG Center and Engineering Collage are in Davangere.

History

A great Maratha warrior by name Appaji Rao had rendered great service to Hyder Ali Khan in capturing Chitradurga fort. Hyder Ali Khan was very much pleased with Appaji Rao, who had made great sacrifices in the wars waged by him. Davangere was handed over to Appaji Rao as a Jahagir. It was a very small village of about 500 houses in its perview. Appaji Rao had to toil for the upliftment of this area by inviting Maratha businessmen from neighbouring Maharastra. A large number of Marathas arrived at this place to carry on business in silk, brasserie and other materials. In due course, due to the incessant efforts of Appaji Rao, the Davangere village grew into a city. Businessmen from neigbouring areas also migrated to try their fortunes in the growing city were successful beyond imagination in earning and shaping their future careers. These circumstances created an opportunity for the perennial growth of the town in modern days. The word “Davangere” is derived from “Davangere”, which means a rope in kannada language which was used for tying the horses by the villages. Around 1811 A.D., this area came to be called as “Davangere”.

On 2nd March of 1934, Mahatma Gandhi visited Davangere and laid foundation stone for a high school. It’s not just beginning for educational era in Davangere but a major mile stone.

Educational Institutions

Medical & Health Science Colleges in Davangere,

• JJM Medical College, Davangere

Other Institutions

• Bapuji Dental College And Hospital
• College Of Dental Sciences
• Ashwini Ayurvedic Medical College
• Sri Guru Valmiki Maharshi
• Sri Devaraj Urs P U College
• Sri. Sevalal Education Society
• University BDT College Of Engineering
• Bapuji Institute Of Engg And Tech
• GM Institute Of Technology
• S. Nijalingappa B Ed College Of Edn
• Sri Saila College Of Education
• Tmae College Of Education
• ADBFEG College
• S T J Polytechnic
• Drr (govt) Polytechnic
• Bapuji Polytechnic
• Millath Polytechnic
• RVV Iti
• A R Govindswamy Arts And Commerce Colleg
• ARM First Grade College
• AVK College For Women
• BEA College Education
• Babasaheb Ambedkar Centenary First Grade
• Bapuji College Of Education
• Centenary College Of Physical Education
• D Devaraj Urs First Grade College
• DRM Science College
• Govt First Grade College, Channagiri
• Govt First Grade College. Davangere
• Govt First Grade College, Mayakonda
• Govt First Grade College, Nyamathi
• Gramabharathi First Grade College
• Makanur Malleshappa College Of Eduation
• S B C First Grade College For Women
• Smt Giriyamma R Kanthappa Shetty First
• Sri Beeralingeshwara First Grade College
• Sri Manjunathswamy First Grade College
• Srishaila College Of Education
• Sri Shivalingeshwara Swamy Govt First
• Drm Science College

Tourist Attraction

Sri Chennagiri Rangappa Clock Tower: This clock tower (75 ft) is a distinct landmark of Davanagere. The foundation for the clock tower was laid by Sir Mirja Ismail, the then Deewan of Mysore province during 1937 and it was inaugarated during 1961 by Sri. T Subramanya, the then Hon’ble LSG Minister of Mysore.

Harihareshwara Temple is a 12th century Hoysala structure situated at the holy town of Harihar near Chitradurga, on the banks of the Tungabhadra river. The temple is 14 km from Davangere. It enshrines a 4 feet image of Harihara with its left portion representing Lord Vishnu and the right, Lord Shiva. A microscopic image of Goddess Lakshmi represented on the lintel of the doorway testifies the architectural proficiency and inimitable craftsmanship of the Hoysala artists

Honnali Raghavendraswamy Math:The Honnali Raghavendraswamy Math is located beside the river Tungabhadra. This age old pilgrim spot, popularly known as ‘dwithiya mantralaya,’ is 40 km from Shimoga and 53 km from Davangere. The devotees from all over the state and outside gather in this shrine.

Sri Durgambika temple is one of the most popular and the biggest temple in the district. It is located in old Davanagere or the Halepet in Shivajinagar. The land surrounding this auspicious temple is called “Devara Hatti”.

KUNDWADA TANK: Kundwada Tank is situated on the left side of Poona-Bangalore NH4 bypass road near Kundwada village of the Davanagere city. The catchment area of Kundwada tank is nearly 253 Acres. Recently, it was rennovated and treated as Summer Water Storage Tank.

St. Thomas Church: St. Thomas Church was built during 1946 and is located at P J Extension (Prince Jayachamarajendra Extension) 6th Cross.

TV Station: Besides the TV station there is a huge reserviour which supplies to Davanagere city and is a popular picnic spot during summer season.

Some of the temples of Davanagere district

• Durgambika Temple,
• Anagodu, Hadali,
• Harihar and Mayakonda.

Davanagere District abounds in natural splendor with its panoramic landscape and ornate architectural landmarks.

• Chennagiri Rangappa Clock Tower
• Comprehensive Water Supply Scheme (T V Station)
• St. Thomas Church deserves special mention.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation

• Hotel Sai International
• Hotel Pooja International(+91-8192-233119 )
• Hotel Shanti Park(+91-8192-253046)

Panambur is the site of New Mangalore Port. It is located in Davanagere District (formerly South Canara ) district of Karnataka state, India, north of the Gurupura river.There is a Nandaneshwara temple in Panambur…..more

Location info

Davanagere District lies in the Maidan region on the Deccan Plateau. The district lies above the historic Chitradurga.

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.

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 Davanagere 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 Davanagere 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 Davanagere District

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