Lakkavalli is a small nondescript village in the Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka. Home to a number of migratory and resident birds, this area is a must visit for nature lovers.
The popularity of this place for its biodiversity dates back to when India was ruled by the British. Another sight worth seeing here is the Lakkavalli dam.
Sightseeing In And Around Lakkavalli
Biodiversity in Lakkavalli – The Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
The Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in Lakkavalli. The park stands adjacent to the Bhadra dam backwaters and is spread over 492square kilometers. This sanctuary is home to over 100 different species of flora and fauna.
Animals spotted here include spotted deer, elephant, bison, leopards and tigers. This is one of Karnataka’s tiger preserves. Among the different flora, this area is most well-known for its teak, sandalwood, hone and rosewood.
For bird watchers, a visit to this sanctuary is an opportunity to see four species of hornbill, Malabar whistling thrush, ruby-throated bulbul, racquet-tailed drongo, and the paradise flycatcher.
Lakkavalli Dam
The Lakkavalli dam across the Bhadra River is part of the Bhadra River Project. It was designed in the 1900s by the Chief Engineer of Mysore, Sir M. Visvesvaraya. The dam stands to a height of 194feet and has a 186ft tall reservoir with 4 crest gates.
It is one of the oldest and most scenic reservoirs in the state. Water from this dam is used mainly for irrigation and agriculture. It also has two turbines connected to a generating station.
Someshwara Temple
The Someshwara Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on the banks of the Bhadra River, this temple is at a distance of about 5 kilometers from the Lakkavalli village. The temple dates back to the 12th century.
It is believed that the linga that originally stood in the temple was crafted from a precious green stone. Sometime in the temple’s history, it was stolen and today a Shivlinga made from saligrama stands in its place. An annual fair is held here every December.
Best Time To Visit Lakkavalli
The best time to visit Lakkavalli is between the months of October and January.
How To Reach Lakkavalli
By Road
Lakkavalli is well connected to nearby towns and cities by road. It is equidistant from Shimoga and Bhadravathi. The village is about 257km away from Bangalore.
By Rail
The closest railway station is about 20km away at Tarikere. Many trains running from Bangalore and Mangalore to Shimoga stop here.
By Air
At a distance of 196 Kilometers, the Mangalore Airport is the closest airport to Lakkavalli. From here, you can take a private taxi to complete the journey. An airport is under construction at Shimoga.
Also See
Trekking in Chikmagalur
Activities and sightseeing in Chikmagalur
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- 12 things you shouldn’t miss in Chikmagalur
- Chikmagalur Coffee
- Forts in Chikmagalur
- Chikmagalur is now Chikkamagaluru
- Waterfalls in Chikmagalur