Shimoga District is located centrally in
Karnataka. ‘Shimoga’ means ‘face of
Shiva’. It is blessed with nature's bounty - landscapes dotted with waterfalls, swaying palms, and lush paddy fields. Shimoga is spread over an area of 10,550 sq km.
Shimoga is the district headquarters.
Major rivers such as Tunga, Bhadra, and
Varada run through Shimoga. The district is rich in flora and fauna, and dense forests. The jungles are the main producers of sandalwood, rosewood, teak and other exotic timber. Mango, jackfruit, and tamarind are grown. Wild animals such as elephant, tiger, lion, leopard, wild boar, bear, antelope, bison, porcupine, monkeys, and wolves are found in the dense forests.
Agriculture and animal husbandry are the major factors contributing to the economy of Shimoga District. Good quality paddy, coconut, ragi, pepper, areca and sugarcane are cultivated. There are 3 hydro-electric power projects.
The tourist attractions are Jog Falls, Vanake-Abbey Falls, Achakanya Falls, Hidlamane Falls, Tunga Dam, B R P Dam,
Kodachadri,
Kundadri, Honnemaradu,
Tyarekoppa Lion Safari,
Sakrebayalu Elephant Camp, Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary,
Gudavi Bird Sanctuary and Ballegavi.
