Kaiwara National Park is situated near Kaiwara (also spelt as Kaivara) – a small town situated at a distance of about 52km from Krishnarajapura (KR Puram) and 55km from Whitefield areas of Bangalore. For people living in eastern and north-eastern parts of Bangalore, Kaiwara comes across as a very convenient drive for a weekend getaway.
Kaiwara falls under Chintamani Taluk and is at a distance of ~8-9km from Chintamani. An 18th century bilingual poet saint Yogi Nareyanappa, also known fondly as Kaiwara Thatha (Kannada) or Kaiwara Thathayya (Telugu) lived and meditated in Kaiwara Cave. He worshipped Amara Narayana – a form of Lord Vishnu and composed many works. There is a temple dedicated to Amara Narayana here.
Kaiwara is also believed to be the town Ekachakrapura from Mahabharata era. It was in this town where Pandavas had taken refuge after the burning down of lac palace. Bakasura – a demon who tormented the folk was slain by Bheema here. After killing the demon, it is believed that Bheema performed penance, installed a Shivalinga at the site and built a temple around it. There is a Bheeka-Bakasura Betta here named after them.
Things to do in Kaiwara
- Amara Narayana Temple, Kaiwara
- A temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu built who was worshipped by Kaiwara Thathayya (Yogi Nareyana)
- Thathayya Cave, Kaiwara
- The cave where 18th century bilingual poet saint Yogi Nareyana, fondly known as Kaiwara Thatha or Kaiwara Thathayya used to meditate and compose his works dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the form of Amara Narayana.
- Kaiwara National Park & Kaiwara Betta
- A National Park situated at Kaiwara surrounding the hill. There is a visitor experience center consisting of a small zoo where few animals and birds are available. Kids might like this place.
- Kaiwara Betta (Hill) is a moderate to difficult trek and gives a spectacular view of the surroundings including the Kaiwara Lake from atop.
- Kaiwara Fort
- Situated atop the Kaiwara Betta amidst Kaiwara National Park are the remnants of an old fort that existed several centuries ago.
- Bheema Bakasura Betta
- A hill named after Bheema – the second Pandava and Bakasura a demon, this is believed to be the place where Bheema and Bakasura fought and Bheema killed Bakasura.
- Shri Bheemalingeshwara Swamy Temple
- A temple believed to be consecrated by Bheema after killing demon Bakasura.
Map/Location
Kaiwara on Google Maps.
Where to Stay
The town is merely 1 hour drive from Bangalore, and you could visit it as a day trip. However, if you must stay or wish to stay overnight, there are one or two resort options along the Bangalore-Chintamani highway.
Local Cuisine and Dining Options
- Chintamani has its own style of spices and most popular cuisine from Chintamani is the spiced peanuts. They are available in Bangalore too at hot chips shops.
- There are no named restaurant chains available in the vicinity of Kaiwara but few local small-time eateries are available and serve your dining needs. There are a few vegetarian hotels along the way and one at Kaiwara cross.
Travel Tips
- Best time to visit Kaiwara would be in the winter months from November to February/March.
- The weather is moderate in these months but can become hot on a bright sunny day. Do not forget to carry plenty of water and other fluids and consume regularly.
- Carry a cap and sunglasses for protection from sun, consider carrying raincoat if you plan to trek in monsoon months. Check weather forecast before planning and make suitable arrangements.
- Do not wander off the trodden paths during the treks as the national park is a wildlife refuge and encounters with wild animals can be dangerous. Remember, you are trekking in their territory.
- When visiting the temples situated in Kaiwara, make it a point to observe local customs and traditions.
Tell Us About Your Visit
If you have visited Kaiwara before or after reading about it on ExploreKarnataka.com, please do let us know how you found the place by commenting below.
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