Plan your weekend: Tumakuru, a city with unexplored locales

This, along with a strong religious tradition, has turned the city into one of the holiest temple towns in Southern India. Fuelled by folklore and age-old traditions, the city has a vibrant and colourful culture that adds to its appeal. The city itself was named after a folk musical instrument known as ‘Tumaki’. Tumkur embodies a warmth and appeal that makes it difficult not be lured by the beautiful city.

Though Tumkur is not traditionally known as a prominent tourist spot, there are many interesting places to visit here. There are many temples dating from the period of the Vijayanagara dynasty. The famous architect and sculptor, Jakanachari was born near here, in a place called Kaidala, 5 km from Tumkur city.

Tumkur is a renowned religious destination housing a number of temples and important places of worship. One such site is the Sree Siddaganga Mutt, a 15th-century religious monastery. Situated in the middle of a lovely and peaceful landscape, the mutt is an inspiring institute that offers education to over 8,000 poor children, between the age of five and 16 years.

The Goravanahalli Mahalakshmi Temple is an important place of worship, believed to house a self-manifested idol of the deity. Several other temples such as the Yediyur Siddhalingeshwara Temple, the Chennakeshava Temple, the Kalleshwara Temple and the Anjaneya Temple are also worth visiting.

The 15th century Pavagada Fort is an important historical monument reminding of the city’s momentous past. Tumkur also has some interesting sightseeing locations such as the Devarayana Durga, Siddara Betta, Sinhadham (a Lion Safari Park, located on the Shimoga-Sagar Road) and the Marconahalli reservoir that’s built across the Shimsa River. Filled with natural beauty, the rocky hills surrounding the city are also ideal for trekking and mountain climbing.

The government operated city buses in Tumkur are the most preferred means of public transport. For traveling more comfortably, you can hire a private vehicle from the numerous car rentals in Tumakuru.