Tumkur Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Tumkur with our comprehensive travel guide, including a list of places to visit, food and drink options, cultural customs, and more.
- Introduction to Tumkur
- List of Places to Visit in Tumkur
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Tumkur
- Madhugiri Fort Trek
- Pavagada Fort
- Best Things to Do in Tumkur: Activities and Tours
- Dubare Elephant Camp
- Tumkur University
- Week-Long Itinerary for Tumkur
- Food and Drink Scene of Tumkur
- Where to Stay in Tumkur: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Tumkur: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Tumkur Silk
- Handicrafts
- Local Culture and Customs of Tumkur
- Best Time to Visit Tumkur
- Do’s and Don’ts of Tumkur
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Tumkur: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Tumkur
- Where to Go Next from Tumkur: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Bangalore
- Mysore
- Conclusion
Introduction to Tumkur
Tumkur, situated in the Central Karnataka district of Southern India, is a city known for its rich cultural history, natural beauty, and competitive education institutes. Its name is derived from “Tumbe ooru,” which means “silver town” in Kannada. Surrounded by hilly regions, the city offers scenic views of mountains and valleys, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers. In this guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to make your Tumkur trip unforgettable.
List of Places to Visit in Tumkur
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Siddhaganga Mutt
Siddre Gowda Swamy was a 20th-century saint who founded the Siddhaganga Mutt in Tumkur. This temple-turned-ashram hosts more than 10,000 students, providing them with accommodations, education, and meals. The most famous attraction here is the Linga Pooja, which occurs twice a day.
Devarayanadurga
Devarayanadurga, a hill town near Tumkur, is known for its religious importance to Hindus. It is situated at an altitude of 3940 feet and encompasses the temples of Lord Narasimha and Lord Yoga Narasimha. From here, you can catch breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.
Sri Chennakeshava Temple
The Channakeshava Temple, built-in 1117 AD, is located in the town of Aralaguppe. The temple’s architecture is an example of aesthetic proficiency, with sculptures and carvings that depict various mythological scenes.
Natural Attractions of Tumkur: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Namada Chilume
Namada Chilume is a natural spring located in the Devarayanadurga forest area. A serene place surrounded by tall trees, it is believed to have medicinal properties, and its water is said to help cure many ailments. While here, you can also relax under the shade of the trees and enjoy a picnic with your family.
Ramnagaram
Ramnagaram is a perfect destination for trekking and rock climbing enthusiasts. The monolithic hills here attract tourists from all over the world, and the city is known for its role in the shooting of the Bollywood movie Sholay. You can also visit the Rama Temple and the Kantha Raja’s fortress while here.
Jayamangali Blackbuck Reserve
Jayamangali Blackbuck Reserve is a beautiful place to spot many species of animals and birds in their natural habitat. The reserve is home to blackbucks, Indian foxes, and many other inhabitants. You can explore the reserve by foot or jeep.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Tumkur
Madhugiri Fort Trek
Madhugiri Fort, situated at 1200 meters above sea level, is the second-highest monolithic rock in Asia. You can hike to the top of the hill, which takes about two hours, to enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding regions.
Pavagada Fort
Pavagada Fort, situated at a distance of 65 kilometers from Tumkur, is an ideal destination for adventure lovers. You can bike to the top of the mountain, enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding areas during the ride.
Best Things to Do in Tumkur: Activities and Tours
Dubare Elephant Camp
Dubare Elephant Camp is a must-visit destination for animal lovers. Situated 98 kilometers from Tumkur, this camp provides an opportunity to observe elephants being bathed, fed, and trained. You can also go on an elephant ride and enjoy boating on the river Kaveri.
Tumkur University
Tumkur University is a well-known educational institution that attracts many students from all over India. The university has a beautiful campus and hosts many cultural events and gatherings throughout the year.
Week-Long Itinerary for Tumkur
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Visit the Siddhaganga Mutt |
| Day 2 | Explore the natural beauty of Namada Chilume and Ramnagaram |
| Day 3 | Visit the Devarayanadurga Hills |
| Day 4 | Take a day trip to the Jayamangali Blackbuck Reserve |
| Day 5 | Hike to the top of Madhugiri Fort |
| Day 6 | Explore the Channakeshava Temple |
| Day 7 | Visit the Tumkur University |
Food and Drink Scene of Tumkur
Must-Try Dishes
Thatte Idli
Thatte Idli, a popular dish in the region, is a plate-sized idli that’s often served with coconut chutney and sambar.
Andhra Biryani
Andhra Biryani is a flavorful rice dish cooked with spiced vegetables or meat. With its tangy taste and aroma, it is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Local Beverages
Filter Coffee
Filter Coffee, commonly known as “Kaapi,” is a popular beverage in Karnataka. This coffee is brewed in a traditional filter and served in a tumbler along with a dabara, a small stainless steel cup.
Buttermilk
Buttermilk or chaas is a popular beverage in Tumkur. It’s a refreshing drink that aids digestion and keeps your body cool during hot weather.
Where to Stay in Tumkur: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
There are many options for accommodations in Tumkur, ranging from budget hotels to high-end resorts. Some of the most popular ones include:
- Woodland Hotel
- Naveen Regency
- Hotel Saraswathi Deluxe
What to Buy in Tumkur: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Tumkur Silk
Tumkur Silk is a traditional fabric made from silk yarn. It is known for its soft texture, and the fabric is dyed using natural colors.
Handicrafts
Tumkur is known for its handicrafts, especially the wooden toys and sculptures made from sandalwood. There are many local bazaars where you can find unique items to bring home as souvenirs.
Local Culture and Customs of Tumkur
The culture of Tumkur is mostly influenced by the Kannada language and ancient Hindu traditions. The locals here are hospitable and welcoming to tourists. It’s essential to respect the culture and customs, dress modestly while visiting temples, and avoid being too noisy in public places.
Best Time to Visit Tumkur
The best time to visit Tumkur is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for outdoor activities.
Do’s and Don’ts of Tumkur
Do:
- Respect the cultural and religious traditions of the locals.
- Dress modestly while visiting temples and other religious places.
- Carry sunscreen and insect repellent during outdoor activities.
Don’t:
- Litter or create noise pollution in public places.
- Enter temples and other holy places with footwear.
- Hesitate to try local food and beverages.
Safety and Health
Safety in Tumkur
Tumkur is a safe city for tourists, but it’s essential to take necessary precautions while traveling. Avoid venturing out alone at night and keep your valuables secured while traveling.
Health in Tumkur
Tumkur has adequate medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics. Carry a first-aid kit and any necessary medications while traveling.
Getting to Tumkur: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Tumkur
The nearest airport to Tumkur is the Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore, which is situated at a distance of 85 kilometers.
Bus Stations Near Tumkur
The Tumkur Central Bus Station and the SIT campus bus station are the main bus terminals in the city. They offer connections to many nearby cities in Karnataka.
Other Options
You can also reach Tumkur by train or car. The city has a good network of roads and is connected to major cities in India.
How to Get Around in Tumkur
Auto-rickshaws and taxis are the most convenient modes of transportation in Tumkur. You can also rent a car or a bike to explore the city at your pace.
Where to Go Next from Tumkur: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Bangalore
Bangalore, the capital city of Karnataka, is situated at a distance of 70 kilometers from Tumkur. It is known for its vibrant nightlife, food scene, and technology industry.
Mysore
Mysore, situated at a distance of 140 kilometers from Tumkur, is a city that is famous for its ancient palaces and historical landmarks.
Conclusion
Tumkur is a city that has something to offer for everyone. With its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and adventure sports, it’s a destination that should not be missed when visiting Southern India. Plan your trip with this guide, and you’re sure to make unforgettable memories.
