
Weird & Unusual Attractions in Davangere, Karnātaka, India
1. Male Mahadeshwara Temple
A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located atop a hill, famous for its unique 'Serpentine' pathway and the annual festival known as 'Jatara'.
- Unusual Architecture: The temple's distinctive architecture showcases a blend of Dravidian and Hoysala styles.
- Serpentine Pathway: The unique path leading to the temple, known as 'Ghantakarni Vadiraja', is shaped like a cobra's hood.
- Jatara Festival: The annual fair, held during September, attracts devotees and tourists alike.
2. Lakshmi Devaru Temple
A temple dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi located in the middle of a pond, accessible only during certain periods.
- Pond Location: The temple is built in the middle of a picturesque pond, adding to its charm.
- Accessibility: The temple can only be visited during certain months, adding an element of mystery and anticipation.
- Legendary Connection: According to legend, this temple was built by a local saint named Dodda Devaru.
3. Hanumanga Rama Temple
A Hanuman temple where the idol is believed to 'walk' when water is poured on it.
- Walking Idol: The unique feature of the idol moving when water is poured on it, attracts both devotees and tourists.
- Historical Significance: The temple has been a place of worship since ancient times and holds historical importance.
- Architectural Style: The temple's architecture is a blend of Dravidian and Vijayanagara styles.
4. Somashekar Temple
A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva with an unusual 'Upside-down' Shivalinga.
- Upside-Down Shivalinga: The unique feature of the Shivalinga being positioned upside down makes it a curiosity.
- Architectural Style: The temple's architecture is a blend of Gothic and Dravidian styles.
- Legendary Connection: According to legend, the upside-down Shivalinga was installed by none other than Lord Rama himself.
5. Bettadapura Fort
A fort built during the Vijayanagara Empire with an underground tunnel system.
- Underground Tunnels: The unique tunnel system offers a glimpse into the war strategies of the past.
- Architectural Style: The fort showcases the grandeur and architectural prowess of the Vijayanagara Empire.
- Historical Importance: Bettadapura Fort played a significant role in the battles during the Vijayanagara Empire.
6. Hulikere Lake
A scenic lake surrounded by intricate Hoysala-style sculptures.
- Hoysala Sculptures: The intricate sculptures surrounding the lake showcase the artistry of the Hoysala period.
- Scenic Beauty: The picturesque surroundings make it an ideal spot for a peaceful retreat.
- Historical Significance: Hulikere Lake was built by King Veera Ballala II of the Hoysala Empire.
7. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
A wildlife sanctuary housing a variety of flora and fauna, including the elusive Bengal Tiger.
- Wildlife Diversity: The sanctuary is home to a rich variety of wildlife species.
- Scenic Beauty: The sanctuary offers stunning views of the Bhadra River and the surrounding hills.
- Conservation Efforts: Visitors can learn about conservation efforts and contribute to them through various programs.
8. Kundadri Hills
A hill range offering panoramic views and caves with ancient inscriptions.
- Panoramic Views: The hills offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- Historical Inscriptions: The caves house ancient inscriptions that provide insights into the region's history.
- Trekking Opportunities: The hills offer trekking trails for adventure seekers.
9. Dandelappa Temple
A temple dedicated to a local deity, Dandelappa, who is worshipped during the annual festival known as 'Dandeli Melanda'.
- Local Deity Worship: The temple is dedicated to a local deity, unique to Davangere.
- Dandeli Melanda Festival: The annual festival showcases local culture and traditions.
- Architectural Style: The temple's architecture is a blend of Gothic and Dravidian styles.
10. Koodli Byraveshwara Temple
A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva with a unique 'Trident' shaped flagstaff.
- Trident-Shaped Flagstaff: The unique trident-shaped flagstaff is a distinctive feature of the temple.
- Architectural Style: The temple's architecture is a blend of Dravidian and Vijayanagara styles.
- Historical Significance: The temple has been a place of worship since ancient times and holds historical importance.
11. Durgada Temple
A temple dedicated to Goddess Durga with a unique 'Twin-Domed' structure.
- Twin-Domed Structure: The twin domes add an architectural curiosity to the temple.
- Goddess Durga Worship: The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga, a unique aspect in Davangere.
- Architectural Style: The temple's architecture is a blend of Gothic and Dravidian styles.
12. Harihar Siddhesvara Temple
A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Vishnu with a unique 'Elephant-Head' shaped flagstaff.
- Elephant-Head Flagstaff: The elephant-head shaped flagstaff is a distinctive feature of the temple.
- Dual Deity Worship: The temple is dedicated to both Lord Shiva and Vishnu, a unique aspect in Davangere.
- Architectural Style: The temple's architecture is a blend of Dravidian and Chalukyan styles.
13. Bhadra Dam
A dam built across the Bhadra River offering scenic views and boating opportunities.
- Scenic Beauty: The dam offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and the river.
- Boating Opportunities: Visitors can enjoy boating on the calm waters of the dam.
- Historical Importance: The dam plays a crucial role in irrigation and power generation.
14. Channarayeshwara Temple
A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva with a unique 'Star-Shaped' structure.
- Star-Shaped Structure: The star-shaped structure of the temple adds an architectural curiosity.
- Architectural Style: The temple's architecture is a blend of Gothic and Dravidian styles.
- Historical Significance: The temple has been a place of worship since ancient times and holds historical importance.
15. Shankaranarayana Temple
A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Vishnu with a unique 'Twin-Sanctum' structure.
- Twin-Sanctum Structure: The twin sanctums dedicated to Lord Shiva and Vishnu make it unique.
- Dual Deity Worship: The temple is dedicated to both Lord Shiva and Vishnu, a unique aspect in Davangere.
- Architectural Style: The temple's architecture is a blend of Dravidian and Chalukyan styles.