43 monuments found
Appealing visitors through its world’s tallest 20-storey high Gopura warded by two huge concrete elephants, Murudeshwar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Stationed near the sacred beach BhatkalTaluk, the place houses the second largest statue of Lord Shiva, with a height of approximately 123 feet. It is said that it took two years to build this statue. Murudeshwar Temple is known for its architectural beauty that describes the cultural and traditional side of India. A visit to the temple brings visitors close to the eternal and unadulterated Indian culture. Overlooking the beauty of Arabian Sea, this holy temple is mainly constructed of granite, which enhances its beauty further. The captivating surrounding welcomes numerous visitors every year.Tourists can also visit nearby attractions like Murudeshwar Beach, Netrani Island (Pigeon Island), Bhatkal and Jamia Masjid etc.
Acclaimed as the founder of Bangalore City, Kempe Gowda initiated the construction of the city with a mud fort way back in 1537. However, it was under the rule of Haider Ali and his son Tipu Sultan that the mud structure was replaced by a strong stone fort which ultimately fell into the hands of the British. Unfortunately, the fort stands in the state of ruins today, but its unbeatable glory still attracts huge flocks of visitors. Popular as Bangalore Fort and also known as Kempegowda Fort and Tipu Sultan’s Fort, the structure today boasts of its massive Delhi Gate, huge bastions and few magnificent structures. Depicting the Islamic military construction style, the fort’s gate is admirable for its motifs, arches, lattice work and sharp spikes intended to resist attack by military elephants. Amidst open courts and beautiful lawns is the Tipu’s Summer Palace which is a two-storey magnificent structure made of wood. Another attraction of the fort complex is the Ganapati Temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Tourists find it amazing to explore the old world charm which still prevails here.
Birth place of Basavna or Basaveshvara, Basavana Bagevadi is a popular pilgrimage town for those who follow Veerashiva Lingayat religion. Located close to the historic city of Bijapur, the town is dotted with some beautiful temples. Basaveshwar Temple is the most popular one and is well-known for its exquisite carvings and mesmerizing architecture. Sangameshvara Temple is another famous holy site located at the confluence of Rivers Krishna and Malaprabha. There are idols of Basaveshvara and his consort Neelamma. One can also find a stone Shiva Lingam built in the midst of the river close to the temple. The town is also blessed with unique scenic beauty. Almatti Dam located close to the town is a good picnic spot.
Constructed over the span on more than 100 years between the 12th and 13th centuries, Chennakesava Temple (or Handsome Kesava Temple) is among the brand ambassadors of India’s magnificent art and architecture. Dedicated to Lord Vijayanarayana (one of the many incarnations of Lord Vishnu), the temple portrays the grandeur of Hoysala architecture. Huge courtyards, holy sanctums, navaranga central hall and many other sections of the temple boast of striking sculptures, intricate designs, ornamented pillars and many other fascinating elements. Built on a raised platform in the shape of a 32 angled-star, the temple has friezes running on the exterior walls as its distinguished feature. These frescos feature elephants, lions, horses, creepers, dancers and female sculptures carved in inimitable designs. Mythological stories from Ramayana, Mahabharata and other Hindu epics are also portrayed on these walls. Sculptures like ‘The Beauty with a Mirror’, ‘The Lady with a Parrot’ and ‘The Huntress’ are unbelievable alluring. Royal Emblem of Hoysala Dynasty and images of Lord Vishnu are other highlights. Inner sanctums of the temple stay closed between 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m., 01:00 p.m.-03:00 p.m. and 05:00 p.m.-06:15 p.m.
The grand Vijayanagara Empire had its glorious capital at Hampi, a site which is still capable of fascinating anyone. Among the Group of Monuments at Hampi listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site are the exceptional Hindu temples and temple complexes with spellbinding flamboyance. Virupaksha Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is acclaimed as a superstructure boasting of numerous shrines, gigantic gateways, elaborately carved pillared halls, lampposts and murals. An interesting feature of the temple is a juvenile elephant who blesses the tourists when paid a rupee coin. The true architectural spectacle is Vittala Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Huge stone chariots, massive monolithic granite pillars and mesmerizing flower motifs and carvings will let you develop instant liking for this structure. Hall of Musical Pillars carved with musical instruments and figures of dancers and musicians is another notable highlight. Many other worthwhile Hampi temples are Hazara Rama Temple, Krishna Temple, Achyutaraya Temple and Chandramauleshwar Temple, each contributing magnificently towards the world-renowned glory of the place. When in Hampi, you can explore royal enclosures, palaces, elephant stables and other visually delightful structures of the bygone era.
One of the rarest temples dedicated to the goddess of art and learning, Saraswati, Dakshina Mookambika Temple is well-known for its serenity, festive celebrations and religious significance. Located in the town of North Paravur, the temple was built by a local ruler named Thampuran. A regular visitor to the Kollur Temple in Karnataka, he built the temple with permission of the goddess after he became incapable of visiting the original temple due to ill-health. The main shrine (called Sri Kovil) is located inside a square lotus pond. One of the main highlights of the temple is the ritual of daily aartis (prayers) performed with elaborated procedures. Kashayam is a form of prasada offered to the goddess and is considered to be of wisdom-enhancing quality due to its herbal preparation. The temple also houses shrines of other Hindu deities like Ganesha, hanuman, Maha Vishnu, Subramaniam and Yakshi. Visiting the temple during Navratri celebrations is an outstanding experience.
The sereneholy town of Kollur is famous for Sri Mookambika Temple dedicated to GoddessParvati (known as Mookambika in Tamil), the consort of Lord Shiva. According tothe popular legend, the goddess freed this region from the terror of a demonnamed Kaumasura. A Jyotirlinga (Shiva Lingam) depicting both Shiva and Parvatiis the centre of worship at the temple. Located onthe bank of River Sauparnika, the temple is believed to be more than 1,200years old. Another attraction of the sanctum sanctorum is the panchaloha(five-metal) image of the goddess installed on the divine Shri Chakra. Thegold-gilded Shikhara of the temple is another noteworthy attraction. The templehosts many festivals and rituals celebrated daily, weekly, fortnightly orannually. Splendid views of the lavish green hills and unbeatable mysticism addto the place’s magnificence. Normal 0 false false false EN-IN X-NONE X-NONE /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;mso-style-noshow:yes;mso-style-priority:99;mso-style-parent:"";mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;mso-para-margin:0cm;mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;mso-pagination:widow-orphan;font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";}
Honouring the peak glory of Hoysala Empire and Hoysala architectural style, Hoysaleswara Temple is the living example of how stones can be converted into masterpieces. Constructed entirely from soapstone (also called potstone), the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and consists of two adjoining shrines. The main shrine houses a Shiva Lingam and there are fascinating images of Nandi Bull, Shiva’s mount. The temple was built in star shape over a long span of 87 years between the 11th and 12th century under the rule of King Vishnuvardhana. Muslim invaders ransacked the glorious temple, but it still holds spellbinding magnificence. Built over a raised platform, the temple is extremely admirable for its sculptures. Friezes running on the exterior walls portray elephants, lions, horses, swans, floral scrolls, mythical beasts and scene from Hindu epics. Pillared halls have eye-pleasing and astonishing ornamentation to their credit. Garuda Pillar (dedicated to a brave royal bodyguard), a temple tank, amazing superstructures, image of dancing Ganesha and many beautiful idols of various Hindu deities add to the temple’s splendour.
Located about 260 km. northwest of Karnataka’s capital Bangalore is the city of Davangere which is home to many famous temples. Sri Durgambika Temple is the oldest among these temples and is a popular pilgrimage destination. Dedicated to Goddess Durga, the temple was established by placing a holy stone brought from the village of Dugatti some 200 years ago. The present day temple was constructed in 1932. It is believed that visiting the temple on Tuesday or Friday is quite auspicious. The goddess, also known as Durga Amma, is believed to fulfil the wishes of her devotees. A popular festival called Durgambika Devi Festival or Jatre is held once every two years in the month of March or April. The 10-day long celebrations draw pilgrims and tourists in huge numbers. Davangere is also home to the temples like Lingeswara and Subramanya and other tourist attractions like Kunduvada Kere Lake, Bathi Gudda Hill and others.
ISKCON Bangalore, Sri Jagannath Mandir Seshadripuram temple is a very popular temple dedicated to Hindu deities Lord Krishna and Radha. The huge and magnificent complex of this temple makes it one of the largest ISKCON temples in the world. Festivals that are related to the avatars of Lord Vishnu or Vedic culture are celebrated here with joy. During this time, the temple is decorated with lights and flowers which add beauty to the serene environment of the temple. This temple mainly promotes the Vedic culture and spiritual learning. There is a free distribution of prasadam to all the visitors during the temple hours. This temple also provides free food to all those who wish to have it. The members of ISKCON temple are involved in social service called Akshaya Patra Foundation which is the partnership operation of providing mid- day meals to children in government schools across India.
Dedicated to the presiding deity of Mysore, Goddess Chamundeshwari or Durga (a form of Goddess Sati or Shakti), Chamundi Temple (or Chamundeshwari Temple) is a world-famous Hindu shrine. Located atop Chamundi Hills, where Goddess Chamundeshwari is believed to have killed the demon king Mahishasura, the temple is also a popular Shakti Peetha (among the 51 Shakti Peethas). It is believed that the hair of Goddess Sati fell here and it became one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas. The temple’s sanctum sanctorum accommodates a stone image of the goddess and has a small tower at the top. However, the highlight of the temple is its 7-storey high Gopura (or temple gateway tower) which flaunts intricate carvings and is visible from a distance. Another attraction is the huge statue of Nandi Bull (mount of Lord Shiva) made in granite and located alongside the steps leading to the temple. The temple car (chariot) used during festivals is another highlight of the temple. Silver temple doors and Dravidian style construction add to the beauty of the temple. Originally built by the Hoysala Rulers in the 12th century, the temple was improved by the Vijayanagara Empire Rulers and Mysore’s Wodeyar Dynasty Rulers over centuries.
Flawless nature finds limited scope in this urbanized world. However, the places like Hebbe Falls allow the opportunities to explore the unblemished and most exotic facet of natural beauty. Falling from the height of about 550 ft. through numerous levels, this extraordinary wonder lands in two separate falls, called Dodda Hebbe (Big Fall) and Chikka Hebbe (Small Fall). Anyone visiting the place would wish to never leave it. Usually, the falls experience fewer visitors mainly due to its difficult accessibility and it is indeed a plus point for the few visiting it. Unlike other falls in India, it is a plastic-free place with wild nature’s splendour. The herb-infused waters are believed to have medicinal properties to cure common cold and numerous skin issues. Though, the water is freezing cold, you can’t resist taking a refreshing dip in it. The jeep ride leading to the place is bumpy throughout, but the unexplored beauty all around makes the daredevils forget everything. After getting down from the jeep, you must travel a distance of about one km., crossing the jungle stream thrice, to reach the fall. Adventurers take the trekking trail passing through mesmerizing coffee plantations from Kemmanagundi (about 10 km. away). Visit the falls during monsoons to find them at their peak glory. However, you should be precautious about the leeches and slippery rocks, no matter what time of the year you plan a trip to this marvellous gem of nature.
Bull Temple, better known as Dodda Basavana Gudi in the regional language, is dedicated to Nandi Bull, which according to Hindu mythology is Lord Shiva’s mount. The chief attraction of the place is a 15 ft. high and 20 ft. long granite monolithic idol of Nandi, counted among the largest in the world. According to the popular legend, the temple was built to pacify a violent bull that would destroy the groundnut crops in the region. The bull stopped its damage spree after the temple was built. Since then, a traditional festival called groundnut festival is celebrated during the months of November-December at the temple. Bull Temple is home to a gigantic idol of Lord Ganesha. The temple is also famous for its typical Vijayanagara architecture with temple tower as the key highlight.
Introduction Kudremukh National Park perched at an altitude of 1894 m. above the sea level in Chikmangalur in Karnataka is famous for some very good reasons. Named after a hill top that is shaped like the head of a horse, this national park spreads across 600 sq.km. Tucked deep into the Western Ghats, Kudremukh National Park is made up of four different ranges of Kudremukh, Kerekatte, Kalasa, and Shimoga. The verdant valleys and the lush green tea and coffee plantations around give the park an ethereal beauty sans parallel. The grassy landscape dotted with patches of thickly wooded forests offer an enchanting sight to the visitors. The park is home to a diverse flora and fauna and is categorized under the Global Tiger Conservation Priority-I, as per the format developed by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and World Wide Fund-USA. It is home to an astonishing range of wildlife including tigers, Malabar giant squirrels, langurs, porcupines, wild dogs and gaurs among others, some of which are highly endangered. Kudremukh National Park also holds the distinction of being the origin of three rivers the Nethravathi, the Tunga and the Bhadra. The ancient cave temples of Varaha and Bhagavati attract scores of pilgrims from far and wide. Adventure lovers would find trekking to the Kudremukh peak an exciting activity. Trekkers are allowed from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.Hanuman Gundi Waterfalls (open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm) is another essential stopover here. Guided walks are the best possible options to explore the park and the surroundings.
Sri Krishna Temple at Udupi is also known as Sri Krishna Matha and was established by the renowned Saint Sri Madhwacharya in the 13th century. According to the legend, the idol at the temple originally belongs to the Sri Krishna Temple of Dwarka. Once the idol got covered in sandalwood and was being transported by a sailor from Dwarka, when the ship got caught in a storm. Madhwacharya escorted the ship to the shore safely near Udupi and the sailor presented him with the idol as a sign of gratitude. Madhwacharya established the idol at the present day temple, which soon became a popular pilgrimage site. The temple’s administration is looked after by the descendants of Madhwacharya’s 8 disciples, each of whom have established their mathas (monasteries) around the temple. Every 2 years, the festival called Paryaya is celebrated and the administration changes hand from one matha to another. The temple also hosts spectacular celebrations for different Hindu festivals round the year. An interesting aspect of the temple is that the main idol can be viewed from what is known as Kanakana Kindi, a window with nine holes. As per the popular legend, the lord turned towards the window so that his ardent follower Kanakana (who was denied entry to the temple for being non-Brahmin) can see him. Other highlights of the temple include its sacred pond called Madhva Sarovar and temple chariots.
Thegchog Namdrol Shedrub Dargyeling, better known as Namdroling Monastery and fondly called the Golden Temple, is located at Bylakuppe, one of the largest Tibetan settlements in India. Established about 50 years ago, the monastery today is home to more than give thousand monks and nuns and is well-known for its peaceful atmosphere. Some of the most intriguing features of monastery are huge red doors exquisitely carved in gold and mural paintings done on the walls and the ceilings. Gold-plated giant statues of Lord Buddha and Guru Padmasambhava are other highlights. At evening, one feels blessed listening to the prayers and chants in the atmosphere filled with aroma of incense sticks. The monastery welcomes Indians and non-Indians with open heart. There are proper arrangements for accommodation, food and communication. Warnings Protected Area Permit (PAP) is required to visit and stay at the monastery. Video photography is strictly prohibited inside the monastery.
Biligiriranga Hills (popularly called BR Hills) are home to Biligiriranga Swamy Temple Wildlife Sanctuary located at the confluence of Western and Eastern Ghats. Recently declared a Tiger Reserve, the sanctuary is home to rich fauna, the most popular species being tiger, wild elephant, gaur, leopard, sambhar, sloth bear, four-horned antelope, giant flying squirrel and many more. Flora here is a wonderful mix of varieties found in the two mountain ranges and includes grasslands, scrub-lands, deciduous forests, evergreen forests and more. The hills blessed with enormous natural beauty also accommodate Biligiriranga Swamy Temple dedicated to Lord Ranganatha which is a popular pilgrimage spot. A sacred grove named Doddasampige is another key attraction of the place.
Outlined by hills and reddish sandstone temples, Agastya Lake offers a great escape for architecture lovers and symbol of spirituality for pilgrims. This lake is a favourite picnic spot for locals. There is a strong belief that the waters of Agastya Lake possess healing powers. You can enjoy a dip in the curing water of Agastya Lake. Located in Badami, Karnataka, the lake is embellished by Bhuthanatha Temple on the northern side. On the eastern side of Bhuthanatha Temple, there is a tiny cave that houses a derelict statue of Lord Buddha. All the caves of Badami face towards Agastya Lake. The caves showcase impressive architecture and compelling sculptures. The hills surrounding the Agastya Lake offer a panoramic view of the city. The sandstones around the lake have a small opening in them offering a gateway for visitors to reach the nearby hilltop. Visitors can also explore other wonderful attractions of Badami like Jambulinga Temple, Durga Temple, Badami Fort, Papanatha Temple, Malegitti Shivalaya Fort and Temple, Ravanphadi Cave, and Archaeological Museum. Badami is nirvana for shoppers; the city is famous for handcrafted items.
Huge rocks acting as natural walls, steep walkways and small ponds everywhere - Badami Fort is no less than an invigorating mystery that unfolds in an exciting manner. It is incredible to explore various sections of the fort that includes grand entrance points, granaries, temples and exquisitely carved figures all over the place. Canons and bastions make special appearances and some breathtaking views from the watchtower can keep one amused. The fort is stretched on the northern and southern sides of the Agasthya Lake over two hills. Two Shivalaya complexes in the North Fort are simply admirable for their architecture and mystic environment. In fact, the whole of the fort enjoys seclusion and peace and can be a wonderful treat for those seeking solitude. Prefer to hire a guide to completely enjoy the trip to these historical fort which stands in full glory even after hundreds of years of its construction. The climb to the fort is difficult can be exhausting. Beware of monkeys, slippery rocks and thorns.
It was between the 6th and the 7th centuries that master architects under the rule of Chalukyas carved the sandstone hills in Badami and completed the astounding and the spectacular Badami cave Temples. Constantly defeating the signs of ageing, these temples that are 4 in number attract tourists from all over. Dedicated to Hindu and Jain deities, the temples are among the finest examples of Indian rock-cut architecture, specifically the Badami Chalukya Architecture. Main highlights of the temples include intricate detailing, carved pillars, exquisite sculptures and enthralling murals. While the first three caves belong to Hinduism (one dedicated to Lord Shiva and other two to Lord Vishnu), the fourth belongs to Jainism. In addition, there is a Buddhist cave which can be accessed only by crawling. The picturesque beauty in the surroundings is adorned by sandstone cliffs, a holy water tank and many other attractions of rich heritage. Warnings: Don’t scratch or vandalise the temple walls and sculptures. Beware of monkeys.
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