Yellamma Devi Temple

Located on the top of a hill, around 80 km from Belgaum, is Renuka Devi Temple. Also known as Yellamma Devi Temple, it is associated with Renuka, the wife of Jamadhagni and Parashurama's mother, whose story finds a mention in the Puranas, ancient Indian texts. The temple has been built in the Chalukyan and Rashtrakutan styles of architecture, while the carvings reflect Jain influences. The construction of the temple was initiated by Bomappa Nayak of Raybag in the year 1514. Temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Mallikarjun, Parshuram, Eknath and Siddeshwar lie in the premises. Facilities of dharamshalas and health centres are also available.

 

Yellamma Devi Temple

Saundatti

Saundatti is best known for the Saundatti Yellamma Temple, also known as Savadatti Renuka Yellamma Temple. Perched on the top of the Yellammagudda Hill, the prehistoric temple is dedicated to Goddess Yellamma or Renuka Yellamma Devi. Built in 1514 by Bommappa Nayaka, the temple is a major pilgrim centre for the people of Karnataka. Saundatti is also called Sugandavarti and is one of the oldest towns near Belgaum. It once served as the capital of the Ratta dynasty from 875 to 1230. Another important attraction in the town is the 18th century Savadatti Fort that has eight bastions. The fort also houses a temple and is noted for beautiful carvings of geometrical patterns featuring more than 200 designs. Tourists can also head to the Renuka Sagar Lake, which is a reservoir for the Malaprabha river, formed by the Navilatirtha Dam. Surrounded by lush green surroundings and verdant hills, the lake provides the perfect setting for unwinding in a calm and peaceful environment. Saundatti lies at a distance of 87 km from Belgaum.

Saundatti

Pattadakal

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Pattadakal group of monuments is poised along the banks of River Malaprabha that later flows into River Krishna. The temple complex is the legacy of the Early Chalukyas (543-753 CE), who built a series of nine Hindu temples for coronation and royal commemoration purposes. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, all the temples face towards the east. From motifs and sculptures of Lord Shiva to other deities of the Hindu pantheon, the temples are adorned with exquisite artwork. Along with nine Shiva temples, there is a shrine dedicated to Parsvanatha, the 23rd tirthankar.

 

Pattadakal

Parasgod Fort

The rugged and rocky Parasgod Fort is about 90 km from Belgaum and is perched atop a hill. Dating back to the 10th century, it was built by the rulers of the Ratta dynasty (875-1250 CE). From the fort, tourists can take a descent of several hundred steps and reach the Yadravi village, which is noted for a natural spring that has a water tank named Ramatheertha and a cave that houses the statues of various Hindu deities and mythological figures like Lord Rama, Goddess Sita, Lord Parashurama and a shivling with Nandi (bull god). The Bharamappa Temple in the village has an inscription that suggests that Yadravi was earlier known as Elarame. Tourists can also visit a shrine dedicated to Lord Maruthi near the fort.

Parasgod Fort

Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary

Located about 100 km from Belgaum, Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for nature and wildlife lovers. Surrounded by dense forests and verdant hills, the wildlife sanctuary is blessed with a rich biodiversity. It is home to animals like tigers, rare black panthers, elephants, wild dogs and deer, among others. However, the prime attraction is crocodiles. If you're lucky, you can also spot the king cobra. The wildlife sanctuary is a treat for birdwatchers as it shelters species like blue throated barbet, great pied hornbill, Malabar pied hornbill and peregrine falcon. The dense forests of the sanctuary are lined with deciduous and evergreen trees like bamboo and teak. The best way to explore the sanctuary is by taking a forest safari in an open gypsy and witnessing fauna in their natural habitat. Located on the banks of River Kali, the sanctuary is Karnataka's second-largest and draws tourists from all parts of the country.

Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary