Sri Vithappa Fair

About Sri Vithappa Fair

Large processions are carried out and devotees shouldering the deity in a sanctum palanquin. Altogether there are sixty groups of drummers joining the processions. Animal sacrifices are made as a part of ritual ceremony. The funds that are collected from these sacrifices are used for the temple welfare.The fair is associated with a large number of spiritual beliefs. Formulation of milk into curd before the offerings is considered as omen by the devotees. The fair was first held two hundred years back and still it is conducted and people enjoy to the extreme. The fair is usually celebrated on the fourteenth and fifteenth day of Ashwija.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation

**Badami Court Hotel:**Station Road Badami,Karnataka,India

**Hotel Pleasant Stay:**Solapur Road,Bijapur,Karnataka,IndiaPh:08352 326465

Location info

• **Address:**Vithappa, Karnataka,India

• District: Bagalkot

• Celebrate Time: September-October (Hindu month of Aswija)

Climate & weather

During winter temperatures range from 32 degrees Celsius to below 20 degrees Celsius,Summer Average temperature is 34 degrees Celsius

History of Sri Vithappa Fair

Devotees offer animal sacrifices to appease the deity of Vithappa. The Pujari sells them and the amount realized is credited to the temple funds.A number of religious beliefs are associated with the Sri Vithappa fair. Devotees regard it a good portent if the milk brought by them gets converted into curds before offering it to the deity. This fair, which is being conducted for the last 200 years, usually falls on the 14th and 15th day of the month Aswija.

How to reach Sri Vithappa Fair

• **Nearest Railway Station:**Bagalkot,Railway Station

• **Nearest Airport:**Belgaum, 192 km airport

**Road Transport:**Badami is connected by road to Pattadakal (22 kms), Aihole (44 kms) and Hubli (110 kms). Karnataka State Transport Corporation buses ply from Badami to different major locations of the state.

Helpline & emergency contacts

• **Police Station:**100

• **Nearest Hospital:**Dr.Halakatti Hospital:Extension Area,Bagalkot, Karnataka,India,ph:08354 222823

• Society/Community Phone Number:

• **Link:**www.bharatonline.com

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.

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 Sri Vithappa Fair

The fair is held on specific dates during the year. The season is generally pleasant if the fair falls in winter months. Summer fairs require early morning or evening visits.

Timings & opening hours

Fair runs for 1-7 days during specific months of the Hindu calendar. Activities typically start early morning and continue until late evening. Main events occur during midday and evening hours.

Entry fee & tickets

Free entry to the fairgrounds. Individual attractions, rides, and stalls have their own charges. Donations at associated temples are voluntary.

Duration needed

2-4 hours to experience the fair. Full day for major fairs with multiple events, cultural programmes, and stalls.

Safety tips

Fairs draw large crowds — be vigilant about personal belongings. Designate meeting points in case of separation from group. Follow traffic and crowd management instructions. Stay hydrated. Be cautious with food from unverified stalls.

Things to carry

Carry drinking water, snacks, comfortable walking shoes, hat/cap, sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, power bank, and personal medications. A light jacket or umbrella is recommended during monsoon season (June-September). Carry small denomination cash for purchases at stalls and offerings. Reusable bag for purchases. Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.

Nearby visiting places

Temples associated with the fair, nearby towns, other pilgrimage sites, and cultural attractions in the region.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest railway station and bus station in the district. Special transport may be arranged during the fair. Nearest airport depends on location.

Things to do at Sri Vithappa Fair

Participate in religious ceremonies, watch cultural performances, shop at local handicraft stalls, enjoy fairground foods (local specialities), ride amusement attractions (where available), and interact with local communities.

Things to visit & highlights

Main temple/venue, cultural performance stages, handicraft and food stalls, livestock markets (where applicable), and the surrounding town/village.

Frequently asked questions

Q: When does Sri Vithappa Fair take place? A: The fair is held on specific dates in the Hindu calendar. Check local sources for the current year’s schedule. Q: Is accommodation available nearby? A: Yes, nearby towns have accommodation options. Book in advance during the fair period. Q: Can tourists participate? A: Yes, visitors are welcome to observe and respectfully participate in the festivities.

Quick facts

• Type: Destination
• State: Karnataka
• Category: Fairs

Photo gallery of Sri Vithappa Fair

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