Talakadu, Karnataka

Talakadu, Karnataka

Talakadu is a unique place in Karnataka situated near Mysore. Its uniqueness comes from the fact that this is submerged with sand, sand like in beach. In fact the sand is all over the place. It can also be termed as desert like place. However it is surrounded by the river cauvery. Talakadu was once known for many of its temples and close to 30 in number, there are very few which can be visited today. At some places in Talakadu, the excavation is still ongoing and some are halted. There are many monuments that were excavated from the earth and are lying on the open ground.

It gives a great pleasure to walk on the deserted land filled with sand. In fact it feels like a virtual beach walk. At all the corners of the walking stretch, one can find some petty shops selling some fruit snacks and ice creams. The whole walking stretch is sheltered and so you are all time protected from sun and rain. Watch out for thorns in the sand, at times they will trouble you and is quite irritating to spend rest of the day in case you fail to get rid of the one that has pierced.

One can mainly do temple visits which is well organized and you will hardly miss one and enjoy a nice desert walk. It is advisable to carry some sports equipment like Cricket kit or Badminton. There are some areas which are open and flat where certain sports can be played and in the shelter.

One of the ruins

Another temple excavated

Shelter area where one can play some sports and also for dining

Monument excavated

There is a beautiful cavery river flowing in a short distance from there. Just enquire the local villagers there and they will guide you. This is a must visit and one should visit by 3 pm and can be there up to 5 pm. The water is flowing on the visible land (little higher than keen depth) and so you walk into the waters, play and swim. It is also safe for children of above 5 years.

Cauvery River, Sweet Water

There is a temple called Mudukuthore Mallikarjuna Temple which is close to Talakadu in the distance of 5 kms. It is one of the five temples that are part of the Panchalingadarshana held at Talakd once every 12 years. The five temples being, Sri Kshethra Vaideshwara, Sri Pathaleshwara, Sri Maruleshwara, Sri Arakeshwara and Sri Mudukuthore Mallikarjuneshwara are believed to be Panchalingas and thus have become famous. This temple visit is so special due to its location. 

View from the path uphill

View from the path uphill

The view from the path uphill.

The way to up hill to reach the temple

A view from the top.

View from the temple.

View from the top of the hill.

A view from the Temple main Dwar

Temple Front View

Travel:

There are two routes and both are in very good condition. One is through Mysore Road and another through Kanakapura Road. Hop on to one of these roads and one will find the sign automatically directing you. It takes about 2 and half to 3 hours to reach Talakadu.

Kanakapura Road, reach Halaguru and then Talakadu.

Mysore Road, reach Maddur, Malavalli and Talakadu.

Overall it is 135kms.

One can reach faster if traveled on Kanakapura road.

Food:

Right at the place there are no food stalls or restaurants available however at some distance one can find food. Again, it is advisable to carry food to this place and to be had under a shelter. The food tastes more better than having in a averagely maintained restaurants.

Stay:

Talakadu itself is a day trip from the cities like, Bangalore and Mysore and hence an option of staying at Talakadu is seldom sought after. The other option is to stay in nearby places like Maddur or Mysore. 

Best Time to Visit: Anytime, but preferably avoid summers.