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The
District Headquarters, Belgaum is a charming blend of the old and the new.
Belgaum, ancient 'Venugrama' ('Bamboo village') is the district and
divisional headquarters. It was the capital of the 'Rattas' who shifted to
this place from Saundatti during the close of 12th century.
This city lies in the border of the states of Maharashtra and Karnataka
and the unique amalgam of the cultures of the two states is reflected in
the lifestyles of the people living here. The city is famous for its
sweets and milk products.
PRIME ATTRACTIONS
Fort:
In the heart of Belgaum, is the Fort. At the entrance are two shrines, one
devoted to Shri Ganapathi and another to goddess Durga.
Inside the Fort are two 'bastis' built in the Late Chalukyan style. Of
these, the more famous is the Kamala Basti, built in 1204 AD. To its right
is a ruined Jain Temple.
Jamia Masjid:
Co-existing harmoniously are two ancient mosques - the Safa Masjid and the
Jamia Masjid.Near the 16th century Jamia Masjid is a Dargah of Khanjar
Wali.
Kapileshwar Temple:
Considered to be the oldest temple in Belgaum, The Kapileshwara Temple is
worth a visit. Other temples worth visiting are the Anathashayana Temple,
the Maruti Temple and the temples of Shiva, Vithoba, Dyamavva and Military
Mahadeva.
St Mary's Church:
The imposing gothic stone structure was built in 1869 AD. Light filters
through the gorgeous stained glass windows and doors to enhance the fine
biblical drawings on the wall.
Belgaum has quite a few very impressive churches such as St. Xaviers
Church, St. Anthony's Church, the Cathedral of Our Lady and the Methodist
Church.
EXCURSIONS
Gokak Falls:
Gokak Falls is 60 kms from Belgaum & 5 kms from Gokak town. The
Ghataprabha River takes a leap over a rocky bed 170 feet down. The best
season for visiting these falls is between June & September.
TRAVEL INFORMATION
HOW TO GET THERE
Air:
Belgaum has an airport.
Rail:
Belgaum is connected by rail to
Bangalore (via
Londa), Bombay (via Miraj) Vasco da Gama.
Road:
Belgaum is connected by road to Bangalore (502 kms.), Saudatti (70 kms.),
Bombay (550 kms.) Halshi (36 kms.) Panaji, Goa (125 kms.) Kittur (44 kms.)
Hubli (82 kms) Bijapur (205 kms.) Gokak
(60 kms.) Badami (160 kms.)
Karwar (167 kms.).
Local Transport:
Auto Rickshaws, Taxis, City Bus Service.
WHERE TO STAY
Hotel Mayura Malaprabha, BUDA Complex, Highway.
Other Useful Information
Department of Tourism, BUDA Complex, National Highway # 4.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Climate: Pleasant throughout the year. Winters are very cold.
Population: 453,000.
Famous Sweet Dish: Kunda.
STD Code: 0831.
Click Here for Belgaum City Map
Click Here for Road Map Of Belgaum
Click Here for Railway Network Map Of Belgaum