Ambuthirtha

Ambutheertha
Ambutheertha near Teerthalli
Ambuthirtha Location in India
Highest point
Coordinates	13°47′32″N 75°10′36″E
Geography
Location	Karnataka, India

Ambuthirtha is a culturally significant mountain 15 km (9 mi) away from the village of Thirthahalli, Shimoga District in the state of Karnataka, India. It is the source of the Sharavathi river.

History

Etymology

The name "Ambuthirtha" refers to a part of Hindu mythology, referencing the god Rama's bow, also called Ambu. The mountain is also a site of a temple to Rama.

Ancient Legend

According to ancient legend, Rama shot at the ground with his Ambu because his wife, Sita, was thirsty. When his arrow hit the ground, water poured out and quenched her thirst. Because the river originated with this event, the river is called "Sharavathi" as Shara translates to an arrow. A Shivalinga is installed at Ambuthirtha, under which the Sharavathi begins.

Hydroelectric Power Plants

The river has two Hydroelectric plants built on it that supply electricity for much of Karnataka. The first plant, located upstream, is known as the Mahatma Gandhi Hydroelectric Power Station. The second plant, closer to the bottom of the mountain, is the Shavarathi Valley Project. The nearest city is called Hosanagara (ಹೊಸನಗರ ಶಿವಮೊಗ್ಗ ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ) and is a significant employer in the area. The company that runs the plants is "Ambuthirtha Power Private Limited," headquartered in Bengaluru.

Habitation

There is a temple to Rama on this mountain, accompanied by a small pond. The water level remains the same all year round due to the Sharavathi River; small creeks feed into the pond and help maintain the pond's equilibrium. Donations from the local population finance the temple's upkeep, as it is believed to be a sacred site.