Harihar, a city in the Davanagere district of Karnataka, India, is known for its industrial significance and pleasant climate. Situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, it’s often referred to as the “twin city” of Davanagere, located just 14 kilometers away.
Historically, the region around Harihar has ancient roots. Some legends connect it to Guhasura, a demon whose vast kingdom was said to have its northern gate at Airani, near present-day Harihar. The confluence of the Tungabhadra and Haridra rivers at nearby Kudalur is considered sacred, with local folklore pointing to rock impressions as the footprints of Lord Harihara, a combined form of Vishnu and Shiva.
The earliest historical references suggest the area was known as Hareshpura during the Badami Chalukya period. Over time, it gained importance under various dynasties, including the Western Chalukyas and the Hoysalas. Notably, an inscription from 1224 CE mentions the construction of a temple dedicated to Lord Harihara by a minister during the Hoysala reign, indicating the town’s religious significance. During the Vijayanagara Empire, the town was briefly renamed Achyutendra-Mallapuram.
Today, Harihar is a crucial industrial hub. It was home to the Kirloskar Engineering company until its closure in 2001. Currently, major industries such as Grasim Industries (of the Aditya Birla Group), Synthite, Shamanur Sugar’s, and Cargill have a strong presence, contributing significantly to the local economy.
Geographically, Harihar is centrally located in Karnataka, offering good connectivity to both the northern and southern parts of the state via road and railway. National Highway 48 (Mumbai – Bangalore) passes through the city. The nearest airport is in Hubli, about 131 km away, with international airports in Mangalore and Bangalore at a distance of around 270-275 km. The Tungabhadra River, while a lifeline for the city, faces pollution challenges due to industrial activity.
