Ambuthirtha

Ambutheertha
Ambutheertha near Teerthalli
Ambuthirtha Location in India
Highest point
Coordinates	13°47′32″N 75°10′36″E
Geography
Location	Karnataka, India

Ambuthirtha is a culturally significant mountain located approximately 15 km (9 mi) from the village of Thirthahalli, in the Shimoga District of Karnataka, India. It is the source of the Sharavathi river, a vital lifeline of the region.

History

Etymology and legend

The name "Ambuthirtha" is derived from Hindu mythology, referring to Rama's bow, also called Ambu. The mountain is also the site of Rama temple. According to legend, Rama shot an arrow into the ground because his wife, Sita, was thirsty. When his arrow hit the ground, water poured out and quenched her thirst. Because the river originated with this event, the river is called "Sharavathi" as Shara translates to an arrow. A Shivalinga marks the origin of the river at Ambuthirtha.

Geological Features

Sharavathi is one of Karnataka's main rivers, entirely originating and flowing within the state. It begins its journey at Ambuthirtha, specifically at a small pond atop the mountain. Remarkably, the water level in this pond remains constant throughout the year, sustained by the Sharavathi river flowing beneath it.

Hydroelectric Power Plants

The river has two hydroelectric plants built on it that supply electricity to much of Karnataka. The first plant, located upstream, is known as the Mahatma Gandhi Hydroelectric Power Station. The second plant, closer to the bottom of the mountain, is the Shavarathi Valley Project. The nearest city is called Hosanagara (ಹೊಸನಗರ ಶಿವಮೊಗ್ಗ ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ) and is a significant employer in the area. The company that runs the plants is "Ambuthirtha Power Private Limited," headquartered in Bengaluru.

Habitation

There is a temple to Rama on this mountain, accompanied by a small pond. The water level remains constant all year round due to the Sharavathi River; small creeks feed into the pond and help maintain the pond's equilibrium. Donations from the local population finance the temple's upkeep, as it's believed to be a sacred site.

Accessibility and Tips

Ambuthirtha can be accessed by road from various nearby towns and cities. The nearest airport is Rashtrakavi Kuvempu Airport near Shimoga, followed by a two-hour road journey. For those travelling by train, Shimoga is the nearest railway station, approximately an hour's drive from Ambuthirtha.

Visitors to Ambuthirtha can explore nearby sites such as Achakanya Falls, Tunga Bridge, Sri Rameshwara Temple, Kavaledurga Fort, and Kuppalli, the home of renowned Kannada playwright and poet Kuvempu.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Ambuthirtha is from October to April, when the weather is pleasant. Summers, especially in April and May, can be uncomfortably hot, while monsoon seasons may hinder travel due to heavy rainfall.