By Amidst the vibrant culture, tech parks, and cosmopolitan lifestyle, Bangalore, the Silicon Valley of India also harbors a rich spiritual legacy. This legacy is reflected in its numerous ancient and modern temples. These temples serve as the places of worship and represent the architectural beauty and cultural heritage of Bangalore. So, no matter whether you are a history enthusiast, a traveler, or a devotee, Bangalore’s temples offer a divine and unique glimpse into the city’s spirituality.
Presenting before you a curated list of famous temples in Bangalore for a godly and holy experience.
ISKCON Temple
The most famous International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKON ) temple in Bangalore is one of the iconic temples. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, the temple lays some extraordinary architecture, blending traditional designs with a contemporary twist.
Highlights :
- The prominent tower(Rajagopuram).
- Everyday Aartis and Bhajan.
- A large room with assembled murals of Krishna’s life stages.
- Must visit the vegetarian restaurant along with a gift shop nearby.
Kote Venkataramana Temple
Dedicated to lord Vishnu, the temple is a historical gem that is situated just near the Tipu Sultan Summer Palace. Built in the 17th century, the temple is a testament to beautiful Dravidian architecture. Every year, the Kote Venkataramana Temple celebrates Brahmotsavam, which makes it particularly popular. This massive 10-day festival is a significant religious occasion that attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists from throughout the nation.
Highlights
- Massive pillars all over the hall with intricate carvings.
- It lays a perfect ambiance ideal for meditation.
Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is a spectacular example of Indian one-cut rock beauty. It is famous for its mysterious stone discs and the beautiful alignment, which allows sunlight to pass through it, illuminating the Shiva Lingam on specific days of the week.
Highlights
- The unique discs of stone
- The serene ambiance
- Do not miss the Makar Sankranti event, where the Shiva Lingam is illuminated.
Banashankari Temple
Dedicated to Goddess Banashankari, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati, the temple is one of the oldest temples made during the 13th century. Founded by Subramanya Shetty, the temple is renowned for its unique practices conducted during the times of Rahukala, an astrologically inauspicious time. Visiting this temple is considered really sacred, as it is believed that Goddess Banashankari protects you from all adversities.
Highlights
- The beautiful Dravidian architecture.
- The Haridra Tirtha (the sacred pond ) in front of the temple.
- Do not miss the annual Banashankari Jatre (festival) celebrated in the month of January.
Chokkanathaswamy Temple
Another old temple of Bangalore, Chokkanathaswamy temple, is located in Domlur during the Chola dynasty. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is brimmed with beautiful carvings and inscriptions, making it a testament to its historical and beautiful significance.
Highlights
- Sculptures depicting scenes from Hindu Mythology
- Inscriptions in the Tamil language
- The serene and peaceful ambiance.
Kempfort Shiva temple
Another temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva with a spellbinding 65 feet long idol of Lord Shiva. One of the famous meditation centers, the temple is renowned across the country.
Highlights
- Replicas of jyotirlingas.
- Meditation centre
- It is a lifetime opportunity to perform Abhishekam – a bathing ritual of lord Shiva.
Bull Temple
One of the oldest temples in Bangalore, the Dodda Basavana Gudi, popularly known as the Bull temple, is dedicated to Nandi, the sacred Bull and the mount of Lord Shiva. Established during the 16th century by Kempe Gowda, it is considered to be one of the significant temples of Bangalore. Made out of a single granite rock, the Nandi idol is a massive monolithic statue which has made it to the world’s largest representation of Nandi.
Highlight
- The massive 4.5 meter tall and 6.5 meter long Nandi statue.
- The annually celebrated groundnut fair known as Kadalekai Parishe.
- Beautiful architecture of the temple.
Ragigudda Anjaneya Temple
Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the Ragigudda Anjaneya temple is situated on a hilltop, giving a panoramic view of the surrounding area. Also, the temple got its name “Ragi Gudda ” as it is situated on a heap of ragi (finger millet). The temple is a must visit for both nature lovers and Lord Hanuman devotees, surrounded by lush green environment and peaceful atmosphere.
Highlights
- The idol of Lord Hanuman which is apporximately 30 foot long.
- The annual celebrations of Hanuman Jayanti.
Shivoham Shiva temple
Compared to other old temples, the Shivoham Shiva temple is relatively modern. The reason for its rapid popularity is the 65 foot tall statue of Lord Shiva in meditative pose. The sculptures of Lord Ganesh and Lord Nandi, which are each 25 feet and 12 feet tall, respectively, add to the temple’s majesty.
Highlights
- A man made lake surrounding the tall Shiva statue.
- Replicas of Jyotirlingas.
- Involve in calming activities like chanting and meditating.
Dodda Ganesha Temple
A popular temple for all devotees seeking blessing from Lord Ganesha, Dodda Ganesha temple is situated just near to Bull’s temple. The massive 18 foot in height and 16 feet in width statue of Lord Ganesha looks extremely mesmerizing and attracts millions of devotees round the year.
Highlights
- Lord Ganesha idol adorned beautifully with vibrant colors.
- The pump and show during Ganesh Chaturthi.
Sri Prasanna Veeranjaneya Swamy Temple
Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the temple is popular for its overwhelming peaceful atmosphere and enthralling architecture. Known for bestowing strength and blessings to all their visitors, the temple has made its way to the top temples of Bangalore.
Highlights
- The tall Hanuman statue
- Serene surroundings
- Special poojas were conducted on Tuesday and Saturday
Talking about the temples in Bangalore, they are not just the places of worship but also reflect city’s deep connection with cultural and spiritual roots. The temples showcases city’s heritage, stunning architecture and maintenance of peaceful surroundings, making the city a perfect getaway for all the spiritual seekers. Whether you are just visiting to pray, admire the marvelous architecture, or just seeking moments of peace, these temples have them all. The harmonious blend of old and new temples in Bangalore will surely leave you blessed and inspired for your future.
