Bellary, India
Region: Karnataka
Geographic Coordinates: 15.100000, 76.916700
Temperature Range: 20.0°C to 40.0°C (68°F to 104°F)
Climate: Dry and hot climate with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 40°C throughout the year, with the monsoon season occurring from June to September.
Population: 410445
Language: Kannada
Bellary is a city located in the state of Karnataka, India. It is situated in the Bellary district and is known for its rich cultural heritage, Historical significance, And natural beauty. The city has a population of over 600, 000 people and is one of the fastest-growing cities in Karnataka. The history of Bellary dates back to ancient times when it was ruled by various dynasties like the Mauryas, Satavahanas, Chalukyas, Hoysalas and Vijayanagara Empire. The city was also an important center during the British era as it served as a major hub for transportation and trade.
One of the most notable attractions in Bellary is Hampi which was once the capital of Vijayanagara Empire. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts tourists from all over the world due to its stunning architecture, Beautiful temples and ruins that date back to 14th century AD. Another popular tourist attraction in Bellary is Tungabhadra Dam which provides irrigation water to several districts including Raichur. Apart from historical landmarks, Bellary also boasts some natural wonders such as Daroji Bear Sanctuary which houses several species of bears including sloth bears.
The sanctuary also has other wildlife such as leopards, Hyenas and deer making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Bellary’s cuisine reflects its rich cultural heritage with dishes like Jolada Roti (a type of Indian bread made with sorghum flour), Badanekayi Palya (eggplant curry) being some popular dishes among locals and visitors alike. The city’s economy primarily depends on agriculture with crops like rice, Cotton being grown here along with mining activities that contribute significantly towards employment opportunities for locals.
Overall Bellary offers something unique for everyone – whether you are interested in history or nature or just want to experience local culture through food or shopping; this vibrant city has it all.
- Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts ancient ruins and temples.
- Bellary Fort, built in the 16th century, is a historic fort.
- Kuntegadda Park is a popular park featuring beautiful gardens and fountains.
- Durgamma Temple is a famous temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga.
- Jambunatha Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Anjaneya Hill offers scenic hilltop views of Bellary city.
- Kumbara Gudda Hill also offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape from its hilltop location.
- Tungabhadra Dam, located on the Tungabhadra River, is known for its scenic beauty and water sports activities.
- Siruguppa Swami Temple is an ancient temple situated in Siruguppa town near Bellary.
- Kudithini Sri Maruti Temple holds religious significance for devotees of Lord Hanuman and can be found in Kudithini village near Bellary.
- Mining: Bellary houses numerous iron ore mines that contribute significantly to the region’s economy.
- Steel Industry: The city boasts several steel plants that manufacture top-quality steel products.
- Agriculture: Bellary is known for its production of rice, cotton, and sugarcane.
- Textile Industry: There are various textile mills in the area that produce cotton fabrics.
- Tourism: Hampi, one of the many historical sites in Bellary, attracts tourists from all corners of the globe.
- Education: Vijayanagara Sri Krishnadevaraya University (VSKU), Government Engineering College (GEC), and other educational institutions are available in the city.
- Healthcare: Several hospitals and healthcare facilities with advanced medical equipment provide quality care to patients in Bellary.
- Retail Sector: In the heart of Bellary lies a plethora of retail stores selling everything from clothing to electronics products.
- Hampi: This famous historical site was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire and is home to numerous temples and monuments. It is located near Bellary.
- Krishnadevaraya: Considered one of India’s greatest kings, Krishnadevaraya was the greatest ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire.
- Hyder Ali: A prominent military commander who served as an officer in the Mysore Kingdom, Hyder Ali was also Tipu Sultan’s father.
- Tipu Sultan: Known for his military prowess and innovative tactics, Tipu Sultan fought against British rule in India.
- Kudligi Narasimha Rao: A renowned Kannada poet from Bellary district who wrote several poems on social issues such as untouchability and women’s rights.
- Anantapuram Lake: Built during King Krishnadevaraya’s reign, this man-made lake still serves as a major source of water for Bellary city today.
- Battle of Talikota: This battle took place in 1565 CE near Talikota (in present-day Karnataka) between various regional kingdoms including Vijayanagara Empire resulting in a decisive victory for Muslim sultanates over Hindu forces led by Rama Raja Wodeyar II (also known as Aliya Rama Raya), marking an end to Hindu rule over South India until its revival under Marathas later on.
- Ghorpade Venkanna Nayaka: He was one among those warriors who fought against British rule along with Sangolli Rayanna.
- Hampi World Heritage Site
- Bellary Fort
- ASI Museum
- Sri Virupaksha Temple, Hampi
- Lotus Mahal, Hampi
- Hazara Rama Temple, Hampi
- Vithala Temple Complex, Hampi
- Tungabhadra Dam Garden
- Anjanadri Hill
- Kudithini Matha Shrine
- Hampi Utsav is a three-day cultural event held in the ancient city of Hampi, near Bellary. It’s an opportunity to witness the rich cultural heritage of the region through various art forms such as dance, music, and drama.
- Karaga Festival is a popular Hindu festival celebrated in Bellary and other parts of Karnataka. The highlight of this festival is a procession where devotees carry pots filled with water on their heads to symbolize fertility and prosperity.
- Mahashivaratri is an important Hindu festival celebrated across India, including Bellary. This day marks Lord Shiva’s cosmic dance (Tandava) and observed with fasting, prayers, and offerings.
- Navaratri is a nine-day festival that celebrates good over evil and honors Goddess Durga’s triumph over demon Mahishasura. During this time, people dress up in traditional attire, perform puja (worship), sing devotional songs (bhajans), and dance Garba/Dandiya Raas.
- Diwali or the Festival of Lights signifies the victory of light over darkness or good over evil. People celebrate by lighting diyas (lamps), decorating their homes with rangolis (patterns made from colored powder), bursting firecrackers, exchanging sweets/gifts with friends/family members.
- Ugadi marks the beginning of a new year for people from Karnataka Andhra Pradesh & Telangana regions who follow lunar calendar-based calculations for dates & festivals. People prepare special dishes like holige, puliyogare etc to celebrate this day which symbolizes new beginnings, fresh starts & hope for better future.
- Donne Biryani – a spicy biryani served in a leaf bowl called donne.
- Rayalaseema Ruchulu – a restaurant that serves authentic Rayalaseema cuisine.
- Hotel Aishwarya Fort – famous for its vegetarian thali and South Indian breakfast items like idli, dosa, and vada.
- Sagar Hotel – known for its delicious chaat items like pani puri, bhel puri, and sev puri.
- Naveen Hotel – famous for its non-vegetarian dishes like chicken fry and mutton curry.
- Sri Rama Bhavan – popular for its North Indian dishes like chole bhature and paneer butter masala.
- Goli Vada Pav – a fast-food chain that serves vada pav (Indian burger) with different fillings like cheese, potato, and paneer.
- KFC Bellary – the famous American fast food chain serving fried chicken buckets
- McDonald’s – the global fast food chain serving burgers fries etc
- Bellary Fort is a popular tourist spot with significant historical importance. It offers scenic views of the city and is a great place to explore.
- Kuntegadda Park is an ideal destination for families, featuring a children’s play area, walking tracks, and beautiful gardens.
- The Tungabhadra Dam provides visitors with an excellent opportunity to relax and enjoy nature’s beauty while indulging in boating activities.
- Hampi Heritage Site attracts tourists from all over the world due to its rich history and architecture as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Ballari Zoo houses various species of animals such as tigers, lions, elephants, deer etc., making it an exciting place for animal lovers.
- Ananthapuram Lake View Park offers stunning views of Ananthapuram Lake along with facilities like boating rides and walking tracks.
- Nehru Park located in the heart of Bellary city provides visitors with a peaceful environment amidst lush greenery to relax.
- Kumbara Gudda Hill Station offers breathtaking views of Bellary city from its peak and is an ideal spot for trekking enthusiasts.
- Raghavendra Swamy Temple Complex is dedicated to Sri Raghavendra Swamy that attracts devotees from far-off places due to its spiritual significance making it famous pilgrimage site.
