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Located in the center of the Indian state of Karnataka, Davangere is the perfect vacation spot for those looking to explore the Western Ghats. It is an important commercial and political city of Karnataka. People refer to it as “The Manchester of Karnataka” because of its famous cotton-producing factories. The word Davangere is a portmanteau of the words “Danavina” and “Kere,” which together translate to “a lake for the thirsty”. The small lakes of Davangere are some of the best places to visit in Davangere and the rest of Karnataka.
The history of this quaint town is unknown to most people. Fables claim that soldiers of the Chalukya Dynasty came here to quench their thirst after a tiring day of horse-riding, naming this place Davangere. During the rule of Nizam Haider Ali, a local Muslim ruler of the region, this city flourished as a business capital. Haider Ali gifted Davangere to Apoji Ram, a Marathi king. This furthered business and cotton production in the region. Even today, you will see the entire city dotted with textile mills and handlooms.
The Shivamogga Hills border Davangere, giving it the feel of a valley-city. You will find plenty of places to visit in Davangere that will keep you entertained, and you are sure to return home refreshed.
Davangere was once populated with numerous lakes. With time, some of these naturally dried up. Today, Davangere contains two beautiful lakes that are its primary sources of drinking water and irrigation. These lakes have clear water, and their surroundings are breathtaking.
Listed among the best places to visit in Davangere, the Kunduvada lake is a favorite among tourists heading to the city. The lake is on the National Highway 4, right on the outskirts of Davangere. Its serene waters and calm surroundings make it worth a visit. While here, you will also spot a water tank sprawling over an impressive 253 acres. You can visit the lake to take a 5km long around its shores. Some locals also frequent this place to get a breath of fresh air during sunrise and sunset. While boating across the lake is generally not popular, you will find yourself enraptured by the sublime sunrises and warming sunsets that you can view from its shores. This spot is perfect for a day out with friends or family. You can also pack a picnic basket for yourself and get away from the usual city-noises.
Another vital source of water for the city of Davangere, the Sulekere lake is another one of the best places to visit in Davangere. A princess ruling the city in the 12th century created this lake. Soole Kere and Shanti Sagara are its two other names. At the time, this lake was possibly the largest in Asia. Lush green trees and grassy fields surround this lake, making it a perfect picnic spot. A temple devoted to Lord Siddheshwara also lies near the lake, boosting the presence of tourists in the area. If you want to have a day out with nature, do not forget to visit Sulekere.
Considered to be a treasure of Davangere, the Anamalai wildlife sanctuary contains diverse varieties of flora and fauna. Due to Davangere’s topography, Anamalai has savannah, deciduous and evergreen trees, promoting the presence of different species of animals. If you want to catch sight of exotic animals like gaur, wild boar, elephants, chital, muntjac, giant squirrel and leopard, visiting the Anamalali Wildlife Sanctuary will be a treat.
Located in a tranquil setting, the Bathi Gudda is a mountain offering spectacular views of Davangere. Located about 5 km away from the city center, this peaceful place will be your dream destination if you are looking to escape the noisy streets. The Bathi Gudda also houses a dairy, the Dargah of Chaman Shah Wali, the Bathi lake and the Bhadra Sugar Factory.
Constructed using the Chalukya style of architecture, the Sri Durgambika temple has witnessed numerous wars, several kings and thousands of festivals. Holy stones brought in by the Chalukyas make up this temple. If you visit this temple during March and April, you will witness the Durgambika Devi Jatra festival.
Constructed about 800 years ago, the Anjaneya Swami temple is an architectural marvel dedicated to the Hindu Lord Hanuman. The style of architecture is Dravidian, and it is flocked by locals all year round. You can visit this temple on Saturdays to witness ceremonial processions.
This stunning Roman-Catholic church is a place you should visit if you wish to spend some time with the divine. The green surroundings, coupled with the beautiful architectural style, lend the St. Thomas Church a sublime outlook. If you visit during Christmas, you will witness fete and festive masses.
In recent years, Davangere has seen a lot of both Indian and international tourists frequenting the city. As a result, the city has numerous hotels. Luxury stays are minimal, and you will probably not find 5-star hotels in Davangere. The few luxury options present in the area are some of the best places to stay in Davangere. Some hotels also offer themed residential experiences such as a countryside residence. Luxury options include resorts, guest houses, and boutique hotels offering amenities such as pools, bars, lounges, suites, breakfast facilities, and fitness centers. Some of these hotels will also provide you a guided tour of the most famous spots in the city. Budget hotels are available in plenty and offer decent amenities. Most budget hotels are near the city center far away from bustling tourist spots.
The entire world knows Davangere for its unique culinary perspectives and tasty dishes. While here, you will never find yourself out of interesting food to try. Even while walking on its streets, the aroma of delicious street food being served by local vendors will make your mouth water. Fine-dining is not very popular amongst the locals; hence, you will seldom come across a fine-dining establishment. The budget restaurants available here serve extraordinarily delicious dishes.
The Benne Dosa is a must-try whenever you visit Davangere. This dosa is prepared using the regular rice and dal batter but with generous amounts of butter added during cooking. It is traditionally served with red tomato chutney, coconut chutney, and sambhar. Other than the benne dosa, you can also not leave without tasting South-Indian delicacies like Appam, Uttapam, Vada, and Idli. North Indian cuisine is also famous around town. Popular street foods include bhelpuri, Shivpuri, panipuri, and chaat. Some restaurants also serve continental cuisine.
The local markets are some of the best places to visit in Davangere and a shopper’s paradise. The delicate wood handicrafts and handmade decorative pieces being sold on Davangere’s streets will mesmerize you. Some of the best things you can take home with you include Karnataka specialties like the Mysore Pak, sandalwood products, wooden toys, coffee, rosewood handicrafts, wall hangings, and incense sticks. Since Davangere is a chief producer of cotton, you can also shop for fantastic cotton clothes and local khadi textiles.
One of the most extravagant festivals celebrated in Karnataka; the Durgambika Devi Jatre is a 10-day festival celebrated in honor of the local deity, the mother goddess. This festival draws huge crowds from all across the country, making it a lively and vibrant affair. During the festival, you will find yourself being swept off your feet in the festive spirit of the locals, with the entire city being decorated in twinkling lights and paper made decorations. Other festivals such as Holi, Diwali, and Eid are also popular in the region.
There is little to no restriction on the usage of cameras and mobile phones in Davangere. Most natural parks and tourist destinations will allow you to use them freely. Temples might prevent their usage completely or charge you extra to carry or store them within the premises.
A commercial tourist destination with a unique history, Davangere will draw you in and hold you captive with its stunning lakes, mesmerizing mornings, vibrant streets, and calming temples. For a memorable vacation, do not forget to visit this marvelous town lying beneath the towering Western Ghats.
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April 15, 2024 
