ABOUT: Somnathpur - Talakkad & Shivanasamudram

Replete with rare and unique carvings, the architectural marvels created by the Hoysala rulers of Somnathpur is an evidence of the patronage architecture received during those times. The Keshava temple flaunts the typical Hoysala styles, that of a mini cosmos with scenes carved on the walls and features their favourite star-shaped structure. Walk around the Stone Sanctuary and see it yourself.  

Talakkadu has a mythical story of the temples in a small town which were sunken under the sand due to a curse, or so goes the legend.  Recently however, the Government has renovated and made the temples look more prominent. At times, water collects and it depends on seasons.

Shivanasamudra Falls, situated along the Cauvery river flows through the rocks and ravines of the Deccan Plateau and forms a waterdall and divides into twin falls, namely Barachukki and Gaganachukki. This is a segmented waterfall and also a hydro-electric power station.

GENRE & APPROACH:
Genre of Photography: Architecture and Landscape
The program is designed to give you a blended set of opportunities at two genres of photography, improving your eye in these genres and developing the artistry in you!

APPROACH: Three pronged approach:
1. Short Discussion on the Coach with Illustrations and few Basics.
2. On-the-feet guidance: (on compositions, technical settings and techniques).
3. Image review on-the-ground, plus a feedback for upto 8 images post the trip, online.

Your photography lead will be available all through the trip for any Q&A or experiments that you will try.

ITINERARY & PLAN:
Meeting Point: Koramangala Club Entrance, 6th Block Koramangala

Plan: Leave Bangalore at 6AM. Head to Somnathpur to catch the morning light. Enroute have breakfast. Reach Somnathpur around 9.30AM. Frame the grand Somnathpur temple for 1.5 hours. Leave Somnathpur for Talakkad at 11 to 11.30AM. Reach Talakkad at 12.00 noon and spend 1 hour here (Not many temples are visible now, but it can be a good walk around). Leave Talakkad and have lunch. Post this, head to the Shivanasamudram falls around 2PM to reach at 3PM. Spend time relishing the falls and frame it. We leave Shivanasamudram at 4PM (+ or - 30 minutes) to Bangalore. Return with memories of Experiencing Karnataka and a boxful of photographs!

DISTANCES:

• Bangalore to Somnathpur - 140 Kms (3.25 Hours)

• Somnathpur to Talakkad - 25 Kms (35 minutes)

• Talakkad to Shivanasamudram - 31 Kms (50 minutes)

• Shivanasamudram to Bangalore - 135 Kms (3 hours)

COST OF THE TRIP
Cost: 6,500 INR, ex Bangalore

Inclusions: (1) All photography mentorship, instructions, guidance on field and eventual Image Review, (2) Breakfast, Lunch and 1 Water bottle during the trip (3) Group Transportation in an AC 12 seater Tempo Traveller Delux coach to and fro, Bangalore (4) All transportation in the coach, as per the itinerary and driver fees (5) 1 bottle of mineral water per person, (6) Entry fees and camera fees, as applicable, (9) All applicable taxes and road tolls.

Exclusions: (1) Insurance, (2) Tips, (3) 1 Evening Snack or Meal on the way back (4) Additional water, soft drinks or beverages, (5) Items of personal nature, (6) Additional activities not included in the program, (7) Costs incurred due to delays, roadblocks or causes beyond our control.

WHO CAN GO?
Anyone interested in photography and travel, keen on seeing marvels of Karnataka, in framing architecture, and heritage, experimenting with photography or wanting to chisel one's photography skills. We can help with any rental lenses of DSLR cameras. Anyone who wishes to use their Mobile Phones for Photography is welcome too. 

Photographers, non-photographers, travellers, family and friends are welcome to join. 
 

Please NOTE: Since the nature of this photo trip is mostly by driving and a bit spontaneous, the itinerary is fluid. Please be prepared to be flexible and open. Your willingness to embrace the moment is crucial.

REQUIRED:

1. Your DSLR camera and lenses and/or your mobile phone cameras

2. Tripod (optional, as it may not be allowed at the temple sites)

3. Memory cards, charged batteries, chargers

4. Water Bottles and Snacks you wish to carry for self and others

5. Vaccination certificates