Bengaluru, officially known as Bangalore, serves as the capital of Karnataka, an Indian state. This city holds the distinction of being the third most populous city and the fifth-most populous urban agglomeration in the country. The cultural heritage of this place is vividly reflected in its diverse religious communities. Despite its reputation as a commercial hub, Bangalore is home to numerous temples, mosques, churches, Jain derasars, Sikh gurudwaras, Buddhist viharas, and the list goes on. The traditional Dravidian architectural style characterizes the ancient temples in Bangalore, although some showcase a more contemporary facade. A visit to Bangalore while touring Karnataka will provide an unparalleled religious journey unlike anything you have ever experienced.
17 Exceptional Temples in Bangalore That are a Must-Visit
Discover the enchantment of India’s diverse religions and cultures as you explore these immensely popular and stunningly beautiful temples in Bangalore. Brace yourself for an overwhelming and insightful experience!
1. The Temple of Chokkanathaswamy2. The Nandhi Temple3. ISKCON Temple4. Shivoham Shiva Temple5. Banashankari Amma Temple6. Hulimavu Cave Temple7. Kote Venkataramana Temple8. Dharmaraya Swamy Temple9. Jagannath Temple10. Shrungagiri Shanmukha Temple11. Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple12. Someshwara Temple13. Nageshwara Temple14. Kadu Malleshwara Temple15. Ragigudda Sri Prasanna Anjaneyaswamy Temple16. Big Bull Temple And Ganesh Temple17. Shri Abhaya Anjaneya Temple
1. The Temple of Chokkanathaswamy
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Situated in Domlur, Bangalore, stands one of the oldest religious structures ever built in India. The Chokkanathaswamy Temple is dedicated to Vishnu, also known as Chokka Perumal. This temple is renowned for its colossal pillars and intricately sculpted statues. With its magnificent architecture and exquisite designs, this ancient temple captivates tourists who visit Bangalore.
Location: 5th Cross Road, Opposite Sony World, Village Domlur, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560071Timings: 6AM-11AM, 5:45PM-8:30PM|6:00AM – 11:30AM, 5:45PM – 8:30PM (Wednesday)|6:00AM-12:30PM, 5:45PM-9:00PM (Saturday)Famous For: Experience the unique and mystifying Pranic energy while standing on the white squares inside the temple
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2. The Nandhi Temple
Situated in the area of South Bengaluru, specifically on Bull Temple Road in Basavanagudi, is the renowned Nandhi Temple, also referred to as ‘Dodda Basavana Gudi’ or ‘The Bull Temple’. This sacred Hindu temple is dedicated to the veneration of Nandi, the divine bull and Lord Shiva’s vehicle. The captivating architecture of the temple follows the Dravidian style and is credited to Kempe Gowda. Within the temple premises, one can also admire a splendid statue of Lord Ganesh.
Location: Bull Temple Rd, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560004Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PMFamous For: The entrance features a remarkable bull statue carved from a single granite stone.
3. ISKCON Temple
Known also as the Shree Radha Krishna Temple, the ISKCON Temple in Rajajinagar, North Bangalore, holds a significant place among travelers. It stands as one of the largest ISKCON temples worldwide and a prominent Krishna temple in Bangalore. The temple’s festivities, which celebrate various avatars of Lord Vishnu and the Vedic culture, add to its charm and make it a beloved religious attraction in the city.
Location: Hare Krishna Hill, Chord Rd, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560010Timings: 7:15am–1pm, 4pm–8:20pmFamous For: Among the largest ISKCON temples globally.
4. Shivoham Shiva Temple
The Shivoham Shiva Temple, situated along Old Airport Road in Bengaluru, is a renowned spiritual destination dedicated to Lord Shiva. This Hindu shrine attracts numerous devotees and visitors alike. A notable feature of the temple complex is the magnificent statue of Lord Shiva, standing tall at 65 feet, from which the sacred Ganges seems to flow out of his matted hair.
Location: 97, HAL Old Airport Road, Kemp fort mall Parking, Ramagiri, Murgesh Pallya, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560017Timings: Open 24 HoursFamous For: The temple’s fame lies in its majestic 65-feet-tall Shiva idol.
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5. Sanctum of Banashankari
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Erected during the 7th century, this distinguished sanctuary is famously referred to as Banashankari or Vanashankari due to its splendid placement amidst the sacred Tilakaaranya woodland. The shrine is dedicated to Shakambhari, a manifestation of the revered deity Parvati. It magnetizes countless followers from Karnataka and the neighboring Maharashtra.
Area: S Kariyappa Road, Kanakpura Main Road, Sarbandapalya, Banashankari Temple Ward, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560070
Working Hours: 6:00 am – 6:00 pm
6. Hulimavu Limestone Grotto
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Situated in Hulimavu on Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore, the captivating temple complex of Bangalore is a sight to behold. Within its premises, you will find three prominent deities. In the center, there lies a sacred Shiva Lingam, while on either side, you will discover consecrated idols of Devi and Ganesha.
Location: Pai Layout, Hulimavu, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560076
Timings: 6AM-12:30PM, 5PM-7:30PM
Famous For: The divine presence of Devi, Ganesha, and Shiva Lingam
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7. Kote Venkataramana Temple
Located on Krishnarajendra Road in Bangalore, the Kote Venkataramana Temple is a splendid tribute to the Hindu deity Venkateshwara. Constructed during the late 17th century, it features a magnificent blend of Dravadian and Vijayanagar architectural styles, courtesy of the Mysore ruler. One of the major festivals celebrated here is Vaikuntha Ekadashi, which attracts a multitude of devotees.
Location: 39, Krishna Rajendra Rd, Kalasipalya, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560002
Timings: 8AM-12PM
Famous For: The awe-inspiring Dravidian and Vijayanagar architectural influences
8. Dharmaraya Swamy Temple
Nestled in the heart of the megacity of Bangalore, the revered Dharmaraya Swamy Temple proudly stands as one of the oldest and most esteemed religious sites. It specifically honors the Karaga festival, which is upheld by dedicated individuals like Gowdas, Ganacharyas, and Chakridaararu. These devotees religiously carry forward the tradition of organizing the Karaga year after year.
Location: Sri Dharmaraya Swamy Temple Main Road, Old Taluk Cutchery Rd, Thigalarpet, Nagarathpete, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560002
Timings: 6:30AM-9PM
Famous For: A sanctified space dedicated to the revered Pandavas
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9. Jagannath Temple
Adding to the list of remarkable temples in Bangalore, the majestic Jagannath Temple graces Sarjapur Road in Agara with its divine presence. This temple reveres the Hindu gods Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra. Every year, over fifteen thousand devotees flock to this sacred space, immersed in the awe-inspiring beauty that it beholds.
Location: Agara Village, 1st Sector, HSR Layout, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560102Operating Hours: 6AM-9PMWell-Known For: This temple is an exact replica of the Jaggannath Temple in Puri, Orissa
10. Shrine of Shanmukha at Shrungagiri
Situated in Rajarajeshwari Nagar, Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka, India. This temple is devoted to the principal deity, Lord Shanmukha. It is considered one of the prominent tourist attractions and religious sites in the city of Bangalore.
Location: BEML, Kempegowda Double Road, 5th Stage, RR Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560098Operating Hours: 6:30 AM to 12:30PM, 4:30 PM to 9:00 PMWell-Known For: The notable feature of this temple is its traditional Sanctum Sanctorum design
11. Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple
The literal translation of Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple is “cave of the lord who adorns the Ganga.” It was restored by Kempe Gowda in Gavipuram and is located near Basavanagudi, holding great significance in the city. This shiva temple, one of Bangalore’s oldest, impresses with its rock-cut structure and continued astronomical importance.
Location: Gavipura, Kempegowda Nagar, Gavipuram Extention, Kempegowda Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560019, IndiaOperating Hours: 7AM-12:30PM, 5PM-8:30PMWell-Known For: Exceptional Indian rock-cut architecture
12. Someshwara Temple
Included in the list of Bangalore’s finest temples, the Someshwara temple is situated on the banks of Ulsoor Lake. Built during the Chola dynasty, the temple’s historical architecture narrates a captivating tale. Kempe Gowda renovated the temple in the 16th century, adding grand towers (gopurams) as well. The walls are adorned with carvings illustrating the story of Shiva’s marriage to Parvati. The stunning architecture of this temple is bound to leave you enchanted.
Location: Situated in Anugraha Layout, Ramanashree Enclave, Bilekahalli, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560076, IndiaHours: Open from 6AM to Noon and from 5:30PM to 9PMRenowned for: 48 Exquisite and meticulously carved pillars from the Vijayanagar Era
13. Nageshwara Temple
The Nageshwara temple stands as one of Bangalore’s hidden treasures, nestled near Hosur Road on the outskirts of the city. Constructed during the Ganga and Chola era, the architecture of this temple is truly awe-inspiring. Lord Shiva is the primary deity worshiped within the temple, earning it the alternative name of Panchalingeshwara temple due to the presence of five lingas in the shrine. Presently, the temple continues to captivate individuals with an appreciation for elegant structures.
Location: Situated on Begur Main Rd, Begur, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560068Hours: Open from 5AM to 10PMRenowned for: A historical inscription from the 9th century that mentions the Bengaluru war.
14. Kadu Malleshwara Temple
Crafted in the 17th century by the younger sibling of Chhatrapati Shivaji, who once ruled Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu, the Kadu Malleshwara Temple is a treasure for all to behold. In ancient times, this temple was surrounded by a dense green jungle, which has now transformed into the old neighborhood of Malleshwara. The temple comes alive during the Maha Shivratri festival, a week-long celebration held in the region. Alongside its remarkable architecture, the temple is also home to an enigmatic waterfall.
Location: Located in SingrihalliHours: Open from 7AM to 12PM and from 6PM to 9PMRenowned for: A collection of stone snake gods displayed within the temple premises
15. Ragigudda Sri Prasanna Anjaneyaswamy Temple
Perched on the hilltop of Jayanagar, the Ragigudda temple is one of Bangalore’s most serene places of worship. Adding to the picturesque views of the city, this temple was built in 1969 and pays homage to Lord Hanuman, drawing countless devotees seeking divine assistance. The temple premises also house shrines dedicated to Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshman. The highlight of the temple is the grand celebration of Hanuman Jayanti, a 12-day festival filled with fervor and excitement, held in April.
Place: KSRTC Layout, 9th Block, Jayanagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560069, India
Working Hours: Weekdays – 8AM-11:30AM, 5PM-8PM; Weekends – 8AM-12:30PM, 5PM-9PM
Famous For: It is believed that this spot was visited by Lord Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, which is depicted in a carving on a 32 foot tall monolithic block.
16. Majestic Bull Temple and Ganesh Temple
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This ancient Bull temple, built in the 16th century and situated in the heritage location of Basavanagudi in southwest Bangalore, is renowned for housing numerous ancient temples. Constructed in the Dravidian architectural style, this temple was built during the reign of Kempe Gowda, a ruler of Vijaynagar. The temple is named after the enormous monolithic Nandi, which is its main attraction. Next to the temple, you can also visit the Dodda Ganeshana Gudi.
Place: Bull Temple Rd, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560004, India
Working Hours: 5:45 AM-8 PM
Famous For: Its name is derived from the gigantic monolithic Nandi, a major highlight.
17. Shri Abhaya Anjaneya Temple
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Situated in the village of Agara in South Bangalore, this Hanuman temple holds great significance among the temples in Bangalore. Adjacent to the Jagannath Temple, it is renowned for its colossal 102-foot statue of Lord Hanuman.
Place: Nagendra Block, Banashankari Stage I, Banashankari, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560085, India
Working Hours: Not Available
Famous For: Its remarkable architecture
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Temples represent a blend of art, dharma’s ideals, beliefs, values, and a way of cherishing life. They establish a spiritual connection between humans, deities, and the Universal Purusha in a sacred place. Bangalore, being the third largest and one of the most livable cities, has transformed from the Garden City to the Silicon Valley of India. Temples in Bangalore offer valuable insights into the heritage and culture of the city and, by extension, India. Planning a religious trip to India? Why not consider visiting Bangalore and embark on a delightful journey exploring the city’s beauty?
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Common Questions About Temples in Bangalore
Are the temples in Bangalore accessible during the Covid-19 pandemic?
As the world starts to reopen and individuals adjust to the new normal, the majority of temples in Bangalore are open or are in the process of reopening. However, it is advisable to check for the latest timings and updates before visiting. Additionally, please remember to maintain social distancing and wear a face mask at all times when outside.
Which temple is the oldest in Bangalore?
According to recent information, the Someshwara Temple located in Halasuru is believed to be the oldest temple in Bangalore.
How many temples are there in Karnataka?
There are more than 34,000 sacred shrines and temples in Karnataka, with over 1,000 of them located in Bangalore alone.
Is the ISKCON Temple in Bangalore made of gold?
The ISKCON Temple in Bangalore is considered one of the most exquisite ISKCON temples worldwide. While it is not entirely constructed of gold, many prominent features of the temple do incorporate gold. For instance, the temple’s flag post, known as the Dhwaja Stambha, is plated with gold and stands at a remarkable height of 17 meters (approximately 56 ft). Additionally, the temple’s Kalash Shikara, measuring 28 feet in height, is also gold-plated and is known to captivate visitors.
Which is the oldest Hindu temple in the world?
The Mundeshwari Devi Temple, situated in the Mundeshwari Hills within the Kaura region of the Kaimur district in Bihar, is believed to be the oldest Hindu temple globally. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Who was responsible for constructing the ISKCON Temple in Bangalore?
The enormous ISKCON shrine in Bangalore was developed as part of ISKCON’s global initiative to commemorate the birthday of its founder, Sri Prabhupada. In May 1997, the renowned ISKCON Temple in Bangalore was inaugurated by Mr. Shankar Dayal Sharma, the former President of India. This temple attracts thousands of visitors each month.
Are visitors allowed to wear jeans inside the ISKCON Temple in Bangalore?
The ISKCON Temple has specific guidelines regarding attire for individuals entering the temple complex. Visitors are advised to dress modestly, covering their shoulders and knees. It is recommended to refrain from wearing items such as jeans, short tops, short skirts, and see-through clothing.
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Category: Bangalore, India, Karnataka, Temples
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