Immerse yourself in the local charm and scenic landscapes of BG Nagara during AMBKCCON. Our venue at AIMS (ACU) is perfectly located for easy access to vibrant cultural experiences and historical sites, offering participants a perfect blend of conference engagement and leisure exploration.
Established in the early 20th century, the Adichunchanagiri Math is administered by the Sri Adichunchanagiri Mahasamsthana Matha, a prominent religious institution in the area. Situated atop a hill, it offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding hills and valleys. Within its premises, one can find temple constructed entirely by stone with astounding architecture, a library, a school, and other educational and cultural establishments. The temple within the Math is devoted to Lord Kalabhairava, a manifestation of Lord Shiva, and holds significant reverence among the locals, drawing numerous devotees annually. Additionally, the temple complex encompasses several smaller shrines dedicated to various deities.
The architectural marvel of the temple is truly captivating, adorned with intricate carvings that catch the eye. Delicate embellishments on the bells, jewels, and vessels further enhance its beauty. Noteworthy features such as the chariot and inscriptions underscore the spiritual significance of the Sage. Legend has it that Shri Siddhalinga Swamy’s arrival into the world was miraculous, as he manifested as an infant to a childless couple rather than being born conventionally. Sri Siddhalingeshwara Swamy, also revered as Sharana Sage, is acclaimed as both a revered teacher and prolific author. Many regard him as an incarnation of Lord Shiva, believing in his divine ability to alleviate the woes of individuals from diverse religious backgrounds.
Melukote, which translates to “fort on the top” from Kannada, is an ancient temple located on a rocky hill named Yadugiri, renowned as a significant pilgrimage destination in Karnataka and also referred to as Thirunarayanapuram. Historically, in the 12th century, the eminent Vaishnava saint Sri Ramanujacharya resided here for 14 years, elevating its status as a crucial center for Vaishnavism. Nonetheless, it’s worth noting that the temple predates Sri Ramanujacharya’s arrival in the region. The Gopalraya entrance, known for its scenic beauty, has been a popular filming location with many movies being shot here. As one ascends the structure, they can notice scattered boulders, marveling at how lighting effects could transform such a seemingly ordinary place into something truly remarkable!
Shravanabelagola is renowned for hosting the world’s tallest monolithic statue of Lord Gometeshwara. Crafted in 981 AD by Chamundaraya, a warrior from the Ganga dynasty, this statue is hewn from a single granite block and remains visible from distances of up to 30 kilometers. Accessible via nearly 700 steps leading up to the Vindhyagiri hills, the statue stands and the surrounding area boasts a temple complex. To pay homage to or catch a glimpse of the deity, visitors must ascend the steps.
Markonahalli Dam spans the Shimsha River in Kunigal Taluk and stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of its creators. Constructed under the patronage of Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV, the King of Mysuru, and supervised by his Diwan, the esteemed Bharat Ratna Sir M. Visvesvaraya, this project boasts pioneering technology. Notably, it is among the earliest dams to utilize the innovative Siphon system. This ingenious design incorporates strategically placed siphons that automatically regulate water flow when the dam reaches full capacity. This engineering marvel harnesses the principles of air flow, showcasing the ingenuity of its time and the visionary expertise of Bharat Ratna Sir M. Visvesvaraya, hailed as the architect of modern Karnataka.
Kunigal Dodda kere, translating to “Big lake of Kunigal,” is nestled in the town of Kunigal, located in the Tumkur district of Karnataka. Originally constructed by Magadi Kempegowda, the lake boasts a bund stretching over 2 kilometers. Serving as a vital water source, it facilitates irrigation for nearby lands while also providing a sanctuary for migratory birds such as Egrets, Ducks, and Cormorants. Renowned Kannada singer P. Kalinga Rao contributed to its cultural significance by composing music and popularizing a folk song inspired by this picturesque lake.
The remarkable craftsmanship of Hoysala Architecture is epitomized by two ancient and historic temples. One of these is the magnificent Chennakeshava Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and believed to have been constructed in the 11th century. Commissioned by King Vishnuvardhana of the Hoysala dynasty, it commemorates their triumph over the Cholas in the Talakadu battle. The temple’s elaborate carvings, both inside and out, are a testament to its artistic splendor. Depictions of the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata adorn the temple’s walls, showcasing scenes of niritya , playing instruments, alongside depictions of animals, birds, and natural elements. A visit to this temple promises an enriching experience, with visitors often spending many hours exploring its intricate beauty.
Among the grand Shiva temples constructed by the Hoysalas, Halebeedu stands out as one of the largest. Its name, translating to “old house” or “old ruins” in Kannada, captivates visitors, travelers, and pilgrims alike with its stunning carvings and masterful craftsmanship. The temple’s foundation boasts seven tiers adorned with intricately carved elephants, lions, horses, and floral motifs. Both the interior and exterior walls of the temple are embellished with detailed carvings depicting Hindu deities, sages, birds, animals, and scenes from the Bhagavad Gita, Ramayana, and Mahabharata. Halebeedu also encompasses numerous temples dedicated to both Hindu and Jain faiths, dating back to ancient times. Additionally, within the Halebeedu complex lies an archaeology museum showcasing over 1500 sculptures and artifacts from the Hoysala era, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich historical heritage.
An undiscovered treasure in Karnataka, the Shettihalli Church, also known as the Rosary Church, stands as a testament to history. Constructed approximately 160 years ago by European settlers on the banks of the River Hemavathi in Shettihalli Village, it has a unique allure. However, with the government’s construction of a dam to manage flooding, the church experiences a fascinating transformation. Particularly during and after the monsoon season, it becomes a captivating sight as it partially submerges into the river, creating the illusion of a floating church.
Always stay hydrated, especially when exploring outdoor sites. Carry a reusable water bottle to reduce reliance on single-use plastics, and refill it at safe water points throughout your journey.
While enjoying the sights, be mindful of your physical limits. Wear comfortable footwear, use sunscreen, and rest when needed to avoid exhaustion or injury. Also, Minimize your environmental impact by reducing plastic usage. Opt for items with minimal packaging, and properly dispose of any waste in designated recycling bins.
| Food & Accommodation | ||
| Mr. Somashekar G N | Assistant Professor | 9632834071 |
| Dr. R Sandeep Varma | Assistant Professor | 7034718649 |
| Mr. Pavan HS | Tutor | |