Hubballi

Introduction

You will find Hubballi situated in the state of Karnataka, where it serves as the taluk headquarters for both Hubli City and Hubli Rural. Located within the Dharwad district, the city forms part of the twin cities known as Hubli–Dharwad.

As you explore this region of North Karnataka, you will notice that the area constitutes a significant urban agglomeration. While the district headquarters is located in Dharwad, Hubballi serves as the seat for the Hubli-Dharwad Municipal Corporation.

Before you go

Prepare to explore the twin cities of Hubli and Dharwad, which are unified under a single Municipal Corporation. You will find that while Hubli serves as a bustling commercial and industrial hub known for its cotton ginning mills and handloom textile units, the neighboring town of Dharwad offers a charming atmosphere spread across seven small hills.

As you navigate this historic region, you can appreciate the local heritage rooted in the trade of cotton and groundnuts. The area is also significant for its role in the Indian Railways, housing the headquarters for the South Western Railway Zone and a century-old railway wagon workshop.

Getting there

You can reach Hubli via its dedicated airport, where 24-hour taxi services are available to transport you to your destination. For those traveling by rail, the city is well connected to all major parts of India through the Hubli Junction railway station.

Bus travel provides convenient connections to several cities including Bangalore, Pune, Mumbai, Mangalore, Mysore, and Goa. You can choose between state-owned NWKRTC buses or various private carriers such as VRL and Kamat, which offer both sleeper and sitting coaches. For a faster and more comfortable journey, you can opt for Volvo buses operated by both private and state providers.

Getting around

You can navigate the city using a variety of transportation options. A reliable suburban bus service connects different parts of Hubli and Dharwad, with buses running frequently between these two locations. From the Dharwad Central Bus Terminus, you can catch a bus to reach various local areas.

For shorter trips within city limits, you may choose to hire an autorickshaw. Be prepared to bargain firmly when using these vehicles, as they do not operate by a meter. Alternatively, you can arrange for a private taxi through local travel agents for your transportation needs.

Where to stay

You can find various accommodations across the city and nearby areas to suit your needs. Options are available along P.B. Road in both Hubli and Dharwad, where you can choose from several properties including Hotel Naveen near Unkal Lake, Hotel Hans in Vidyanagar, and Hotel Ashray located at a central traffic island.

Other nearby locations offer different settings for your stay:

• Hotel Clarks Inn on Gokul Road
• Travel Inn in Sattur, Dharwad
• Hotel Hoysala on P.B. Road, Dharwad
• Mandar Residency on College Road, Dharwad

Food & drink

Savor the authentic flavors of North Karnataka by visiting local khanavalis, where you can enjoy traditional dishes like Jowar Rotti, Badanikai Palya, and Red Chilli Chutney. For those seeking specific regional specialties, explore various North Indian and South Indian delicacies available throughout the city. You can also find a variety of local snacks such as chat, boiled shenga, ring pakoda, and parathas.

Refresh your palate with traditional drinks like lassi and butter milk, or visit a juice shop to enjoy fresh juices, including sugar cane juice available year-round. For a different atmosphere, you can find contemporary dining options ranging from pizza to international cuisines in the Vidyanagar area, where local youth gather in cafes for coffee.

You can find moments of calm and serenity at the Venkateshwara temple situated behind Nrupatunga Betta, which also offers a panoramic view of the expanse of Hubli City. Explore the spiritual atmosphere of the 11th-century Chandramauleshwara Temple or visit the Banashankari Temple. For those seeking a relaxing environment, the ISKCON Temple on Hubli-Dharwad Road and the Shree Sai Mandir near Nrupatunga Betta provide peaceful settings for your visit. You can also find spiritual solace at Siddharodh Math, the Eshwar Temple in Old Hubli, or the beautiful Shree Sai Mandir in Sai Nagar.

Experience the local landscape by visiting Unkal Lake and Bund Garden or taking a trip to see nearby waterfalls such as Magoda Falls, Satoda Falls, and Sogalla. You can also visit the Indira Gandhi Glass House in Sadashiva Nagar or find tranquility at the Sai Mandir in Unkal. For those traveling further, the center for introspection and enlightenment in Hirehonnalli offers both a temple and a library.

When to go

You can experience three distinct seasons when visiting Hubballi, each offering a different atmosphere. If you prefer dry conditions, you can visit during the summer months or the winter season. The winter period provides the mildest and driest environment for your stay, while the summer months are characterized by intense heat and virtually no rainfall.

During the monsoon season, you will experience moderate temperatures accompanied by substantial rainfall that turns the landscape lush. While this period brings significant precipitation, be aware that wet conditions may affect your travel plans.

Three days in Hubballi

Day one, you can begin your journey in Hubballi by exploring the local surroundings. You might visit Unkal Lake to enjoy the scenery of the area.

Day two, you can explore the region and experience the atmosphere of North Karnataka. You can travel through the local areas of Hubli City or Hubli Rural.

Day three, you can prepare for your onward journey from the city. You have various transport options to reach other destinations such as Bangalore, Pune, Mumbai, Mangalore, Mysore, or Goa.