Shimoga, 273 km south-west of Bangalore, was once a stronghold of the Keladi Nayakas. The fort, the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and the government museums are worth a visit. Other places to see in and around Shimoga are Gajanur, Tyavarekoppa, Agumbe, Jog Falls, Kodachadri, Ambuthirtha, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary and the Barkana Falls.