Virajpet in Karnataka has a rich tradition and history. This town and the neighbouring Kodagu were ruled by several South Indian dynasties like Ganges, Chalukhyas, Rastrakutas, Cholas, Vijaynagar Rayas and Hoysalas giving it a rich tradition.
Virajpet got its name from Virarajendra, the former ruler of Kodagu. The name Virajpet is the abbreviation of Virarajendrapete. Often Virarajendra is still being used to refer Virajpet.
The Ayyappa and Shiva temples on the Malethirike Hill, which is situated about 8 km from Virajpet, are among the major attractions for the travellers. Shiva Temple is at the top of the hill while Ayyappa Temple is half way down the hill. A clock tower in the centre of Virajpet attracts large number of tourists. There is a Ganesha Temple nearby the Clock Tower. Another famous temple in the town is Igguthappa.
St. Anne’s Church is a major attraction in Virajpet. Built under the supervision of Father Sullivan, this 220-year-old church has Gothic and European style of architecture. Its tower has two huge bells.
Thadiyendamol Peak is a destination of adventure seekers and trekkers. This peak is the second highest peak in Karnataka. The peak is known for its scenic beauty. Burude Falls and the Dubare Forest Reserve are other destinations for the tourists here.
Large coffee and spice plantations are situated in Virajpet. It is a major producer of coffee seeds in India. It has also the distinction of being the biggest honey producer in Asia.
Mercara Dasara is the main festival here. This festival, celebrated in October, lasts for ten days. The festival depicts the victory of Goddess of Power over the Asuras. A procession is taken out on this occasion with singers and dancers participating in it.
Virajpet enjoys a pleasant climate all round the year. Yet the best time to visit Virajpet is from October to March when the weather is a bit cool. Visitors to Virajpet are advised to carry light woollen clothes during winter. In the summer months of April and May, the temperature goes up to above 30 degree centigrade.
The nearest airport, at present, is Mysore, which is situated at a distance of 115 km from Virajpet. When completed Kannur airport (80 km) will be the nearest airport. The nearest railway stations are at Kannur and Thalasseri (80 km) in Kerala. Virajpet is well connected by road with many places in Karnataka, and Kannur, Thalasseri and Wayanad in Kerala.
Virajpet has several luxury hotels, budget hotels, home-stays and resorts to cater to the needs of visitors. There are also mountain hotels. Tour operators and hotels offer Virajpet packages. These Virajpet packages include stay in hotels and visit to tourist places within Virajpet and the neighbouring places like Kannur and Thalasseri.
For more information on Virajpet packages and popular resorts in Virajpet, visit HolidayIQ.
source: http://www.guidetourist12.thoughts.com / by guidetourist12 / July 05th, 2012
