History and Overview of Hubli
Hubli is one of the major cities in the south Indian state of Karnataka. The name of the city Hubli, also spelled as Hubbali, translates to ‘flowered creeper’ in chaste Kannada. Karnataka is known for its two big conurbations - Bangalore and Hubli-Dharwad. Hubli is always mentioned along with Dharwad, which also serves as its functional capital. Dharwad is one of the major business hubs in Northern Karnataka. The city serves as a major commodity center for trading peanuts and cotton, which grow in abundance in and around the city.
Hubli served as a major cotton trading center during the reign of the Vijayanagara Rayas. It further grew under the reign of the Adilshahs, who took over a factory established by the British. The factory was looted by Shivaji in the year 1673.
Hubli was ruled by various kingdoms and empires from time to time. Under the British rule, Hubli prospered as one of the major textile centers in undivided India. An industrial revolution came about in Hubli after the establishment of the Railway Workshop in 1880. Over the years, Hubli has acquired the name of Chota Mumbai, due to its commercial establishments.
Places to Visit in Hubli
The city of Hubli is home to must-see attractions like:
- Siddharoodha Math: This place was built in the memory of Siddharoodha Swamy, who came and settled here in 1897. Siddharoodha Swamy attained Samadhi in 1929. The place today has become a center for garnering knowledge about the Advaita philosophies, which were originally preached by Siddharoodha Swamy.
- Shambu Linga Temple: This temple is located at Kundgol, 15 km from South of Hubli. It was built by the Chalukyan Kings.
- Chandramauleshwara/Chaturlinga Temple: The temple is located in Unakal and it was built by the Chalukyas during their reign.
- Unakal Lake: This lake is located 3 km away from the city of Hubli. It once served as a water source for Hubli. A statue of Swami Vivekananda, located at the center of the lake, adds to the visual serenity of the place.
- Nrupatunga Hill: This hill is located near Hubli and it is the highest hill station near the Hubli–Dharwad conurbation. It serves as an ideal tourist spot for families.
Weather of Hubli
Similar to many other places in North Canara, Hubli-Dharwad is known for its dry and tropically wet climate. Summers are particularly very humid and they last for a period of five months from February to June or sometimes till early July. The best time to visit Hubli is from October to February, and during this time, the city experiences a moderate climate.
How To Reach Hubli From Bangalore
- By Air: There is a direct flight from Bangalore to Hubli that you can take in order to reach the place.
- By Road: The distance between Hubli and Bangalore is 407 km and a drive from Bangalore to Hubli will take around eight hours.
Also See:
