Tourist Places In KGF
Tourist Places In KGF
DISCOVER
Tourist Places in KGF
Located in the heart of Kolar Gold Fields, our restaurant is surrounded by some of the region’s most fascinating attractions. Whether you’re here for a short visit or a relaxed getaway, you’ll find plenty of history, culture, and natural beauty to explore:
Kolar Gold Fields Township – Walk through colonial-era streets, old bungalows, and historic mining landmarks that once made KGF famous worldwide.
St. Michael’s Church & King George Hall – Step back into the charm of Victorian architecture and heritage.
Kotilingeshwara Temple – Witness the world’s tallest Shiva Lingam and millions of smaller shrines, a breathtaking spiritual experience.
Someshwara & Kolaramma Temples – Marvel at intricate carvings and timeless architecture from the Chola and Vijayanagara dynasties.
Anthargange Hills & Caves – A perfect spot for trekking, cave exploration, and visiting sacred springs.
Avani & Budikote – Explore mythological tales of the Ramayana and the birthplace of Hyder Ali.
Bethamangala Lake – A scenic retreat and historic water source of KGF.
Whether you’re an explorer, a pilgrim, or simply here to enjoy the unique vibe of KGF, our restaurant offers you the perfect place to relax and recharge after a day of discovery.
Kolar Gold Fields Township
The Kolar Gold Fields (KGF), often called the “Little England of India,” is a unique township with a rich colonial past. Once home to one of the deepest gold mines in the world, KGF was developed by the British in the late 19th century and flourished as a cosmopolitan settlement.
The township still reflects its golden heritage through:
Colonial Architecture – Elegant British bungalows, clubs, and civic halls that once hosted mining officers.
Mining Legacy – Though the mines are now closed, KGF’s identity as the hub of India’s gold production remains legendary.
Cultural Diversity – People from across India and even abroad settled here during the mining boom, making KGF a melting pot of traditions, languages, and cuisines.
Historic Landmarks – From the majestic King George Hall to the serene St. Michael’s and All Angels’ Church, the township carries a timeless charm.
Geological Significance – Recognized as a National Geological Monument, KGF showcases unique rock formations and mining landscapes that fascinate historians and geologists alike.
A walk through KGF Township feels like stepping into a living museum—where every street, building, and corner echoes stories of the past.
St. Michael’s Church & King George Hall
Built in 1905, this stunning Anglican church is one of the finest examples of Victorian Gothic architecture in South India. With its tall spires, stained glass windows, and serene interiors, St. Michael’s was once the spiritual heart of the British officers who lived in KGF. Today, it remains a peaceful retreat where history, faith, and architecture come together beautifully.
Built in 1905, this stunning Anglican church is one of the finest examples of Victorian Gothic architecture in South India. With its tall spires, stained glass windows, and serene interiors, St. Michael’s was once the spiritual heart of the British officers who lived in KGF. Today, it remains a peaceful retreat where history, faith, and architecture come together beautifully.
King George Hall
Erected in 1915 to commemorate the coronation of King George V, this civic hall is a landmark of colonial elegance. Designed in classic Victorian style, it served as the cultural hub of KGF—hosting grand gatherings, performances, and community events. Even today, King George Hall stands as a proud reminder of KGF’s golden era and its vibrant social life.
Kotilingeshwara Temple
A short drive from KGF lies the awe-inspiring Kotilingeshwara Temple, home to one of the largest Shiva lingams in the world—standing at an impressive 108 feet tall alongside a majestic 35-foot Nandi statue. Spread across 15 acres, the temple complex is adorned with millions of smaller lingams, each offered by devotees over the years, creating a truly unique spiritual landscape.
Beyond its religious significance, Kotilingeshwara is a place of peace and wonder, attracting pilgrims and visitors alike with its sheer scale and tranquil atmosphere. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the cultural heritage of Kolar.
Someshwara & Kolaramma Temples
Dating back to the Vijayanagara era, the Someshwara Temple is a masterpiece of South Indian architecture. Its tall gopuram, intricately carved stone pillars, and ornate mantapas reflect centuries of devotion and craftsmanship. The temple’s quiet courtyards and detailed sculptures make it not just a place of worship but also a treasure for history and architecture lovers.
Built during the Chola dynasty, the Kolaramma Temple is dedicated to Goddess Kolaramma, the town’s guardian deity. What makes this shrine unique is the goddess’s image that can only be viewed through a mirror—a tradition preserved for centuries. The temple also houses a shrine of Kapalabhairavi, believed to protect devotees from scorpion stings. Rich in legends and spiritual aura, this temple is deeply tied to the cultural identity of Kolar.
Anthargange Hills & Caves
Just outside KGF lies the enchanting Anthargange, a rocky hill range famed for its caves, boulders, and natural springs. At its heart is a sacred Shiva temple, where a mysterious stream of water flows endlessly from the mouth of a stone bull, believed to be divine.
For adventurers, Anthargange offers exciting trekking trails, cave explorations, and night camping experiences under the starlit sky. For pilgrims, it is a serene spiritual retreat surrounded by nature. This rare blend of adventure and devotion makes Anthargange one of Kolar’s most unforgettable destinations.
Avani & Budikote
Avani
Known as the “Gaya of the South,” Avani is steeped in mythology and history. It is believed to be the site of Sita’s exile and the birthplace of her twin sons, Lava and Kusha. The hilltop Sita Temple, along with shrines dedicated to Lord Rama, Lakshmana, Bharata, and Shatrughna, form a sacred complex. The surrounding hills, also called Valmiki Parvata, make it a serene pilgrimage spot with panoramic views.
Budikote
Translating to the “Fort of Ash,” Budikote is a small but historically significant village near KGF. It is renowned as the birthplace of Hyder Ali, father of the famous ruler Tipu Sultan. The village is dotted with ancient temples, inscriptions, and the remains of a fort, offering a glimpse into Karnataka’s rich past. Its rustic charm and historic depth make Budikote a rewarding stop for history enthusiasts.
Bethamangala Lake
A tranquil getaway near KGF, Bethamangala Lake is a centuries-old reservoir that once supplied water to the gold mines and the township. Surrounded by rolling hills and greenery, the lake is a peaceful spot for relaxation and quiet reflection. On its banks stands the Vijayendra Swamy Temple, adding a spiritual charm to the serene landscape.
Whether you’re seeking a scenic retreat, a touch of history, or simply a calm evening by the waters, Bethamangala Lake offers the perfect escape from the bustle of town life.
Shooting Spots Of Mining Area
The blockbuster film KGF brought worldwide attention back to the historic mining town of Kolar Gold Fields. Many of its most iconic scenes were shot at the Cyanide Hills—vast mounds of mining residue left behind from decades of gold extraction. With their rugged, barren landscape, these hills provided the perfect cinematic backdrop to recreate the raw and intense world of the gold mines.
Filmmakers built elaborate sets here to resemble the 1970s–80s mining era, blending the authenticity of the location with powerful storytelling. Though access to the actual mines is restricted, the Cyanide Hills and surrounding landscapes have become a point of fascination for visitors and fans eager to see where “Rocky Bhai” walked.
For cine-lovers and adventurers alike, these shooting spots are more than just film locations—they’re a real connection to the golden past of KGF and its portrayal on the big screen.
Kolar Gold Fields Pillow Lava Formations / National Geological Monument
Long before it became famous for its gold mines, Kolar Gold Fields was part of the ancient seabed. Evidence of this incredible past can still be seen today in the form of rare pillow lava and pyroclastic rock formations—unique stones that were created millions of years ago by volcanic activity under water.
Recognized as a National Geological Monument, these rocks are living proof that KGF once lay beneath the ocean. For geologists, they are a treasure trove of natural history, and for visitors, they offer a fascinating glimpse into the earth’s story. Standing before these formations, one can truly feel the timeless journey of KGF—from an ancient sea, to a land of gold, to a place of culture and history.
