If you are planning for a weekend trip from Bengaluru or Mysuru, you should consider driving to Kuppalli. It is a tranquil village that holds a remarkable cultural landmark. Kavishaila is nestled atop a serene hill. It stands as a poignant memorial dedicated to Kuvempu. He is one of Karnataka’s most revered literary figures.
Kavishaila – A Scenic Getaway with Depth
Kavishaila is approximately 350 km from Bengaluru. It is 261 km from Mysuru and just 145 km from Mangalore. This makes for a refreshing road trip into the lush greenery of the Western Ghats. But this is not just another tourist spot — it is a place where nature and literature converge.
Where Stones Speak Poetry
Kavishaila is perched atop a quiet hill. It stands as a striking megalithic rock monument. The rocks are carefully arranged in a circular formation reminiscent of Stonehenge. At its center lies the final resting place of Kuvempu. He was the revered poet laureate. He was also a Jnanpith awardee who redefined Kannada literature.
This is more than stone and soil — it is a sacred ground. Every part of this hill carries the quiet power of Kuvempu’s words and vision.
Stories Carved in Stone- Kavishaila
Just a short walk away, you’ll find a smaller rock — unassuming but historic. It is where Kuvempu used to sit, often in deep literary conversation with fellow writers and thinkers. That single stone has seen the birth of ideas that still shape Karnataka’s cultural identity today.
Sunsets and Stillness
Plan your visit around sunset, and you are in for something magical. As the sun dips low, golden light pours between the standing stones, casting long shadows and bathing the hilltop in a warm, dreamlike glow. It’s quiet. It’s surreal. And it’s something you will carry with you long after you leave.
The Artists Behind Kavishaila
These stone artifacts were created by K.T.Shivaprasad, a well-known contemporary Indian artist. And behind the scenes, the late V.G. Siddhartha, founder of Cafe Coffee Day, played a pivotal role in building the monument — blending artistic passion with cultural preservation.
More Than a Destination
Kavishaila isn’t a place you just visit — it is a place that transforms you. You come here looking for a quiet weekend, but you will leave feeling like you’ve touched something timeless.
So, the next time your calendar’s open, and your soul needs some breathing room, skip the mall. Head to Kuppalli. Let the spirit of Kuvempu and the whispering wind remind you of what truly matters. The panoramic views evoke inspiration, heritage, and peace.
Pair your visit with a stop at the nearby Kuvempu Memorial House. His life and works come alive there. You will find preserved manuscripts, furniture, and photographs.
During our visit to Kavishaila, we stayed at Bananki Homestay — you can read all about our experience here.
Have you been to Kavishaila? We do love to hear your thoughts and stories! Drop a comment below and don’t forget to share this post with fellow travelers.