I remember visiting Bhadravathi in 1979 as part of our school education trip. We visited Vishweshwaraya Iron and Steel Limited (VISL) factory and all I can remember is that it was very hot and noisy inside. We friends were busy noticing that the water in our water bottle had become warm. The unit was started by Sir M Vishweshwaraya and was known as Mysore Iron and Steel plant. They were pioneer in production of high quality alloy, special steels and pig iron. The factory now is defunct. There are many other industries flourishing in Bhadravathi.
Bhadravathi town is situated in Karnataka and it is 255 Km from Bangalore. The town got its name due to the River Bhadra, which flows into town.
This time when I knew that we were passing through Bhadravathi on our trip to Jog Falls, I made a point to stare for a moment at the defunct VISL and proceeded to visit the 13th century Lakshmi Narsimha Temple built by Hoysalas.
The Archaeological Department maintains the temple dedicated to Lord Narasimha (incarnation of Lord Vishnu). The temple is situated in the old town area of Bhadravathi.
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A huge wall surrounds the temple. The temple is built at a height and as you enter the huge courtyard, you are greeted by a garuda stambha (pillar) and the temple is sprawled on either side with perfect proportion. The raised pedestal is in the shape of a star.
The temple has 3 Gopurams (towers) and hence also known as Threekutachala temple. On the outer walls of the temple are carvings of great detail in Hoysala style.
Other interesting places around Bhadravathi are Bhadra Dam at Lakkavalli, which is 20 Km from Bhadravathi and Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.
Place Statistics:
Type of Place: Industrial Town and Ancient Temple
Situated: Shimoga district, Karnataka
Distance: 255 Km from Bangalore, 19 Km from Shimoga, 170 Km from Hubli
Transport: Well connected by Rail and Road
Facilities: Hotels, Restaurants are available
