Novel experience in store near Jog Falls

BANGALORE: Here is some good news for nature enthusiasts. This September, nature lovers can enjoy the beauty of the Western Ghats as the much awaited resort at Talakalale, near Jog Falls in Shimoga will be open for tourists.Aiming to promote ecotourism, this expansion plan of the Jungle Lodges and Resorts (JLR) of the State Tourism Department will be a destination for adventure tourism. Nearly 6 km from Jog Falls at Shimoga, the resort will house 18 cottages. The construction of 11 cottages is over and work on the remaining seven cottages is in progress.JLR executive director (project and business development) RK Singh, said that the resorts will be a novel experience for forest lovers. To offer a fun-filled adventurous tour, the department is contemplating including water sports like boating in the island of one sq km area on the Talakalale balancing reservoir. Other water sports will also be planned.Sprawled across 20 sqkm of water body, we expect the place to be a hot spot for national and international tourists.The island is an evergreen area which will make it a preferred destination. "We chose to launch this ecoresort in September for nature lovers who will enjoy the experience during the rains," he added.Singh said that though the launch is expected to be in September, a soft launch will be done sooner.JLR which is owned and managed by Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC), is investing Rs 5 to 7 crore on the Talakere project.