Ramanagaram

It is know for its grand animated rocks. No wonder that it has became a much sought-after film shooting spot. Legend has it that Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshmana halted on the Ramadeva Betta while going on “Vanavas” (exile ordered by Rama’s father). A beautiful temple with the Hoysala lions and other figures is on the hill. Inside the temple are the idols of Rama, Sita and Lakshmana. Besides the temple is a huge pond called “Lakshmana teertha”. In the same vicinity is a temple dedicated to Parvati, which has a “linga” facing “Nandi”.

Exquisite pottery from Ramanagaram is very famous. The Karnataka State Handicrafts Development Corporation has its Rural Marketing and Servicing Centre and a show room here. It is the biggest silk production center in the country. On the banks of the river Arkavati are the `dargah’ of Peeran Shah Wali and the Arkeshwara Temple.