The Chola temples in Karnataka are beautiful structures, known for their detailed craftsmanship and spiritual importance. Built by the Chola dynasty, these temples reflect their lasting impact on southern India.
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10 Renowned Chola Temples In Karnataka For A Spiritual Trip
This article explores the list of Chola temples in Karnataka, providing a look into their history and cultural significance.
Explore These Chola Temples In Karnataka
Shri Chokkanatha Swamy Temple, Bengaluru
Located in Domlur, the Chokkanathaswamy Temple is one of the oldest Chola temples in Karnataka dating back to the 10th century. Chokkanatha Swamy Temple dedicates to Lord Vishnu. It is popular here as Chokkanathaswamy, it was constructed by Raja Chola after annexing Yelahanka Nadu.
The Chokkanathaswamy temple, derived from the Telugu word ‘Chokka’ meaning ‘beautiful’, signifies the ‘temple of the beautiful god’. It is believed that certain areas are filled with pranic energy. The temple is open daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM and from 5:45 PM to 8:30 PM.
- How to reach the Shri Chokkanatha Swamy Temple? The nearest airport is the Kempegowda International Airport, located 59 KM away from the temple. The nearest railway station is the KSR Bengaluru City Junction, located 9.3 KM away from the temple. Visitors can also take a bus from the Domlur Bus Stand which is located, just 500 M away.
- What is the Shri Chokkanatha Swamy Temple famous for? It has rich Dravidian architecture with the Vijayanagar-style Navaranga pillars and the front mantapa being major architectural delights. One unique aspect is its Saligrama stone idols, the most sacred stone worshipped by Vaishnavas.
- Best time to visit the Shri Chokkanatha Swamy Temple: The best time to visit the Shri Chokkanatha Swamy Temple is from September to February as the water is pleasant and perfect for exploration.
Muktinatheshwara Temple, Bangalore
Located in Binnamangala, believed to have been built by Rajaraja Chola, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Mukthinatheshwara. It dates back to somewhere around the early 12th century.
The temple has undergone numerous renovations and additions by rulers such as the Hoysalas and Vijayanagara, each contributing to its rich tapestry. The temple is a spectacular specimen of classic Cholan architecture. It is open daily from 7 AM to 1 PM and 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM.
- How to reach the Muktinatheshwara Temple? The nearest airport is the Kempegowda International Airport, located 47.9 KM away from the temple. The nearest railway station is the Yeshwanthpur Junction, located 19.2 KM away from the temple. Visitors can also take a bus from the Vishwa Shanti Ashrama Bus Stop located, just 1 KM away.
- What is the Muktinatheshwara Temple famous for? It showcases typical Dravidian architecture, characterized by delicately carved pillars, detailed sculptures, and a towering vimana. The outer walls depict intricate carvings of Lord Ganesha, Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, etc.
- Best time to visit the Muktinatheshwara Temple: The best time to visit the Muktinatheshwara Temple is from September to February as the water is cool and suitable for travelling.
Sri Prasanna Someshwara Swamy Temple, Bangalore
The Sri Prasanna Someshwara Swamy Temple lies in Marathahalli. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Famous for its history and architecture, it is an important religious site and cultural landmark of the region.
Over the centuries, the temple underwent several renovations and expansions by various rulers, including the Hoysalas and the Vijayanagara Empire. Each dynasty introduced unique architectural elements and artistic enhancements, reflecting their respective styles and cultural influences.
- How to reach the Sri Prasanna Someshwara Swamy Temple? The nearest airport is the Kempegowda International Airport, located 46.2 KM away from the temple. The nearest railway station is the KSR Bengaluru City Junction, located 16.7 KM away from the temple. Visitors can also take a bus from the Bangalore Bus Stand is located just opposite the Bangalore City railway station.
- What is the Sri Prasanna Someshwara Swamy Temple famous for? Built in the classic Dravidian style, the temple features a towering gopuram, intricately carved pillars, and detailed sculptures. Tamil and Kannada inscriptions provide insights into its history, including donations, renovations, and festivals over the centuries.
- Best time to visit the Sri Prasanna Someshwara Swamy Temple: The best time to visit the Sri Prasanna Someshwara Swamy Temple is from October to February when the weather is mild and perfect for sightseeing.
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Shri Someshwara Swamy Temple, Bangalore
Located in the neighbourhood of Halasuru in Bangalore, it is one of the oldest temples of the city. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is a prominent Shiva temple in Karnataka. Lord Shiva is worshipped here as Someshwara.
Legend says that while resting under a tree, the chieftain Kempegowda had a dream in which Lord Someshwara appeared and instructed him to build a temple using buried treasure. It is open everyday from 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM.
- How to reach the Shri Someshwhara Swamy Temple? The nearest airport is the Kempegowda International Airport, located 37 KM away from the temple. The nearest railway station is the KSR Bengaluru City Junction, located 7.2 KM away from the temple. Visitors can also take a bus from the Halasur Police Station Bus station located just 160 M away from the temple.
- What is the Shri Someshwhara Swamy Temple famous for? The temple features a towering gopuram and intricately carved pillars. These pillars are exemplary elements of the Chola period.
- Best time to visit Shri Someshwhara Swamy Temple: The best time to visit Shri Someshwhara Swamy Temple is from October to February.
Dharmasevara Temple, Bangalore
Located in Kondrahalli, it is dedicated to Lord Dharmesvara, a form of Lord Shiva. Locals believe that the Dharmesvara Temple acts as a protective shield for the surrounding community.
Legend says this spot is where the Yaksha Prashna from the Mahabharata took place Pandavas (except Yudhishthira) died for drinking from a Yaksha’s pond without answering his questions. Yudhishthira answered all of his 248 questions, thus receiving a boon and used that to revive his brothers.
- How to reach the Dharmasavara Temple? The nearest airport is the Kempegowda International Airport, located about 40 KM away. The nearest railway station is the KSR Bengaluru City Junction, located 40 KM away from the temple. Visitors can also take a bus from the Khejurtala Bus station located just 120 M away from the temple.
- What is the Dharmsevara Temple famous for? The temple is famous as people believe that the Nandi statue here has the power to protect devotees from evil forces and negative influences.
- Best time to visit the Dharmasevara Temple: The best time to visit the Dharmasevara is October to February as the weather is pleasant during these months.
Sri Madduramma Devi Temple, Bangalore
Located in Huskur, this temple is believed to be the oldest temple in the area. Constructed around 1065 AD, this temple dates back to the time when the Chola empire was at its peak.
The temple is dedicated to Goddess Madduramma, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. Legends say that a local chieftain was instructed by the Goddess herself to establish a shrine in her honour when the region was facing severe drought and disease. It is open from 5:30 AM to 8:30 PM every day.
- How to reach the Sri Madduramma Devi Temple? The nearest airport is the Kempegowda International Airport, located 59.2 KM away from the temple. The nearest railway station is the KSR Bengaluru City Junction, located 25.5 KM away from the temple. Visitors can also take a bus from the Huskur Bus station located just 650 M away from the temple.
- What is the Sri Madduramma Devi Temple famous for? The most significant festival celebrated at the Sri Madduramma Devi Temple is the Madduramma Jatre (fair). It usually takes place in April or May. This festival attracts thousands of devotees from across the region.
- Best time to visit the Sri Madduramma Devi Temple: The best time to visit the Sri Madduramma Devi Temple is from October to February.
Kashi Vishweshwara Chola Temple in Bangalore
Located in Kadugodi, it was built by King Rajendra Cola and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The deity is also referred to as Rajadhi Raja Bhangisvaramhow according to the inscriptions found in its basement.
The name of the locality “Kadugodi”, originated because this temple was constructed in the middle of a forest. “Kadu” means forest and “Gudi” means temple in Kannada. During that time, this was the only temple in an area stretching across 15 KM. It is open every day from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- How to reach the Kashi Vishweshwara Temple? The nearest airport is the Kempegowda International Airport, located 35.4 KM away from the temple. The nearest railway station is the KSR Bengaluru City Junction, located 26.3 KM away from the temple.
- What is the Kashi Vishweshwara Temple famous for? The name “Kashi Vishweshwara” itself connects the temple to the holy city of Kashi (Varanasi).
- Best time to visit Kashi Vishweshwara Temple: The best time to visit Kashi Vishweshwara Temple is from October to February.
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Sri Vasantha Vallabharayaswami Temple, Bangalore
Perched on a hillock south of Bangalore in Vasantapura, the temple dates back to the times of Rishi Mandavya. According to the local legend (sthalapurana), he is believed to have established the shrine. Its rich history makes it a significant religious place in Karnataka.
In ancient times, Bangalore was popular as Kalyanpuri. Many holy springs, believed to be sanctified by Lord Vallabharaya, lined the original path to the temple. Today, only Devatirtha and Vasantatirtha remain. It is open from 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM in the mornings and from 5:30 to 8:00 PM in the evenings.
- How to reach the Sri Vasantha Vallabharayaswami Temple? The nearest airport is the Kempegowda International Airport, located 52 KM away from the temple. The nearest railway station is the KSR Bengaluru City Junction, located 11.2 KM away from the temple. Visitors can also take a bus from the Talaghattapura Bus Station located 4.3 KM away from the temple.
- What is the Sri Vasantha Vallabharayaswami Temple famous for? The temple is famous because Devatirtha and Vasantatirtha are believed to have sanctifying and miraculous healing powers.
- Best time to visit Sri Vasantha Vallabharayaswami Temple: Best time to visit Vasantha Vallabharayaswami Temple is from October to February.
Shri Prasanna Parvathi Sametha Shri Someshwara Swami Temple, Bangalore
Located in Madiwala, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, revered here as Someshwara. The temple belongs to the early 12th century and is one of the oldest temples in the city.
Legend has it that while hunting, Kempe Gowda rode far from his capital Yalahanka. Exhausted, he rested under a tree and dreamt of the local deity Someshwara, who instructed him to build a temple in his honour. It is open from 6:00 AM to 12 AM in the mornings and from 4 PM to 8 PM in the evenings.
- How to reach the Shri Prasanna Parvathi Sametha Temple? The nearest airport is the Kempegowda International Airport, located 43.2 KM away from the temple. The nearest railway station is the KSR Bengaluru City Junction, located 12.5 KM away from the temple. Visitors can also take a bus from the Kuvempunagara (B.T.M.Layout) Bus Station located only 800 M away from the temple.
- What is the Shri Prasanna Parvathi Sametha Temple famous for? The temple is especially famous for its Swayambu Shiva lingam in its Sanctum Sanctorum.
- Best time to visit Shri Prasanna Parvathi Sametha Temple? The ideal time to visit is from October to February due to the pleasant weather.
Shri Kolaramma Devi Temple, Kolar
The temple is dedicated to Goddess Parvathi, who is worshipped as Kolaramma by the people. It is open daily from 7 AM to 1 PM in the morning and from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM in the evening.
Another deity is Chelamma, the scorpion goddess. People believe that by praying at the Chelamma shrine a person will be guarded from scorpion stings. It is customary to place a coin into the small floor opening, where the clicking sounds of accumulated coins can still be heard.
- How to reach Shri Kolaramma Devi Temple? The nearest airport is the Kempegowda International Airport, located about 77 KM away from the temple. The nearest railway station is the KSR Bengaluru City Junction, located just 2 KM away from the temple. Visitors can also take a bus from the Kuvempunagara (B.T.M.Layout) Bus Station located just 1.3 KM away from the temple.
- What is the Shri Kolaramma Devi Temple famous for? The temple is especially famous for its Kolaramma Jatra, an annual festival which celebrates Goddess Kolaramma. Additionally, it also features stunning Dravidian architecture and more than 30 inscriptions.
- Best time to visit Shri Kolaramma Devi Temple: The best time to visit the Shri Kolaramma Devi Temple is from October to February.
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In conclusion, the Chola temples in Karnataka stand as remarkable embodiments of architectural brilliance and historical richness. They invite everyone to delve into their sacred spaces and appreciate the legacy of the Chola dynasty. These ancient sanctuaries, with their intricate carvings and grand stone structures, serve as timeless beacons of devotion and cultural heritage.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Halasuru Someshwara Temple, situated in the Halasuru neighbourhood of Bangalore, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the city’s ancient temples and dates back to the Chola period.
Chola temples are famous for their exquisite architecture, representing a pinnacle of Dravidian temple architecture in South India. They depict towering gopurams and mandapas filled with intricate carvings of gods, goddesses, mythical beings, and more.
The Cholas built numerous exquisite temples. Unfortunately, a lot of them were lost to time and destroyed by foreign invaders. However, only three temples are popular as the “Great Living Chola Temples, These include the Temple of Gangaikonda Cholapuram, the Brihadisvara temple at Thanjavur, and the Airavatesvara temple at Darasuram.
The Chokkanathaswamy temple in Domlur, with its earliest inscriptions dating back to the 10th century AD.
During the Chola period, temples prominently featured a vimana as a central structure, a characteristic not always replicated in modern temples. Additionally, Chola temples in Karnataka prominently displayed images and statues of kings, a practice absent in present-day temples.
