Limar

Limar is a small town situated in the southern region of the Indian state of Karnataka, within the administrative boundaries of Chikkamagaluru district. The settlement lies at an elevation of approximately 790 metres above sea level and is surrounded by the Western Ghats, a range of mountains known for their biodiversity and coffee plantations. According to the 2011 national census, Limar had a population of roughly 6,300 residents, the majority of whom belong to agrarian communities. The local economy is primarily based on agriculture, with coffee, areca nut, and spice cultivation forming the principal sources of income. Small‑scale dairy farming and horticulture also contribute to household livelihoods.

Historically, Limar originated as a trading outpost during the medieval period, serving as a waypoint for merchants moving between the coastal ports of Karnataka and the interior plateau. The town’s name is derived from a term in the local Kannada dialect meaning “hill shelter,” reflecting its position amid the surrounding terrain. Architectural landmarks include a 17th‑century Shiva temple noted for its stone carvings and a modest public library established in the early 20th century.

In recent years, Limar has experienced incremental development through government‑sponsored rural programs aimed at improving road connectivity, sanitation, and primary education. The town is accessible via state highway SH‑122 and is serviced by a regular bus network linking it to the district headquarters, Chikkamagaluru, and the nearby city of Hassan. Cultural life in Limar is marked by annual festivals such as Makara Sankranti and local harvest celebrations, which draw participation from surrounding villages.