Origin of the name Nandi Hills

Facts

Nandi Hills has been a favorite picnic place for young enthusiasts on a weekend. The pleasant climate appeals to the old and the young alike. Lovers and honeymooners, in search of a quiet, beautiful place, and families on an economized budget prefer Nandi Hills. Historians can find a wealth of information and the spiritual-minded, peace and tranquility. From Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka, Nandi Hills is a mere 60 kilometers. Nandi Hills offers a surprise of breathtaking scenic beauty and excellent climatic conditions. Situated in the Chikkaballapur Taluk of Kolar District in Karnataka, Nandi Hills, at the height of 4851 feet above sea level is, the most popular picnic spot. There are many stories about the origin of the name Nandi Hills. According to the legend, the name Nandi Hills originated from the shape of a hill, which resembles a sleeping bull. During Chola rule, it was known as Ananda Giri, meaning 'The Hill of Happiness'. Another story is that Yoga Nandeeshwara performed penance here, and so it was named after him. A temple of Yoga Nandeeshwara is situated on top of the hill. Nandi Hill was also called 'Kushmandagiri' for, the sage Kushmanda performed austerities here. The Gangas enjoy the epithet of lords of Nandagiri after this hillock. The Jaina antiquity of the place is attested by a Shravana-tirtha. The place-name Anandagiri (Hill of Pleasure) was changed into Nandagirihill of Nandi, the vehicle of Shiva during the time of the Cholas. The hills are also commonly called Nandidurga because of the fort built here by the ruler Tippu Sultan.

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