Birds of Nanjangud

It was a great surprise to see so many birds in Nanjangud !! It turned out to be a memorable birding trip, especially since I got to see many birds for the first time.

After I spotted a White Throated Kingfisher, I decided to spend sometime birding - in the town. It was the first time that I saw the white throat and I didn't have my binoculars and camera!! :(

I woke up early next morning only to be be disappointed by a thick blanket of fog (fog blanket :). I thought I saw some storks on a coconut tree but could not identify them.



The fog lifted around 8 A.M. and I could start identifying the birds. I was really excited to see the Blue Tailed Bee Eater, Red Rumped Swallow and the Indian Grey Hornbill - all firsts for me. The Bee Eater in flight stuns you with its sudden turns and dives.

It was great to see the sparrow thriving here. Hope they come back to Bangalore (To the city and not just the airport)!

While on the train, we spotted a pea-fowl emerging from a sugarcane field and got a glimpse of the Black Ibis.

Bird Watching in Hebbal Lake
HSBC Bird Race 2009
Bird Photography in Kumara Park West

Nanjangud

Nanjangud is a small town located around 25 kms from the city of Mysore. It is famous for the temple of Sreekanteshwara or Nanjundeshwara (Lord Shiva) that lies on the banks of the Kapila river. Earlier much of the economy revolved around this temple. Now, a number of industries (auto, pharma, textile) have moved into this town to set-up industries.

Like most Indian temples the stone temple is a fantastic monument that highlights the artistry and workmanship of its times. The temple quadrangle is lined with sculptures with amazing detail. Apart from the main deity Lord Shiva, the temple complex has other deities like Lord Ganesha. It was heartening to learn that the temple attracts devotees from other faiths. Tipu Sultan has installed a Shiva Linga at this temple after his prayers were answered – A battle elephant regained it’s eyesight after going blind!! I was surprised to see some Khajuraho style sculptures. (Photography is not permitted within the temple)

An exact replica of the Lord Ayappa Swamy temple that is located on the banks of the Kapila river is worth a visit. I’m told that the steps and the temple front are plated in gold!

The town does offer interesting sights of bangle shops, flour mills, wood cutters and vegetable vendors. If you are adventurous you can take a ride on one of the "teppas".

To my surprise the city is a great birding location!!

While road and rail connectivity to Nanjangud is good, lodging facilities needs to improve to make this tourist town a good tourist destination. There are a few internet cafes but the connection is flaky.

This post is dedicated to Elango who is very interested in all the crap I write! Elango thank you for your interest!