6 Places You Must Visit Temples in Chikmagalur

Interested in visiting Chikmagalur? This is your best choice. Chikmagalur, famous for its historical ruins and cultural magnificence, is also well known for its spiritual abundance and spiritual surrealism. A visit to the temples in Chikmagalur is a must if you are looking for a perfect getaway to refresh your mind.

Here are the 6 famous temples in Chikmagalur:

• 1. Chikmagalur Shiva Temple
  2. Deviramma Temple Chikmagalur
  3. Hoysala Kesava Temple, Belur
  4. Jain Temple, Gommateshwara
  5. Veeranarayana Temple, Anekere
  6. Ishvara Temple, Halebid

1. Chikmagalur Shiva Temple

The Chikmagalur Shiva Temple, nestled in the heart of Chikmagalur town, is an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its shrouded origins weave a story of time.  While exact dates remain elusive, its existence is well documented during the reign of the Keladi Nayaka dynasty (15th-16th centuries).  

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism, the temple is revered for its calming atmosphere and intricate carvings. The temple’s peaceful atmosphere and intricate carvings offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Chikmagalur Temple.

• • Location: Chikmagalur town
  • Best time to visit: Morning or evening
  • Nearest attractions: Coffee Museum, Gandhi Park, Hebbe Falls

2. Deviramma Temple, Chikmagalur

High atop a Chikmagalur hill shrouded in legend sits the Deviramma Temple. Dedicated to Goddess Durga, the temple is a beacon of faith and a marvel of perseverance. Legend whispers that after vanquishing the demon Mahishasura, Durga rested here, and her presence lingers.  This unique temple, however, holds a secret: it opens its doors for just one day each year.

• • Location: On a hilltop in Chikmagalur town
  • Best time to visit: Morning or evening
  • Nearest attractions: Chikmagalur Fort, Kodanda Rama Temple, Mullaiyanagiri Hills

3. Hoysala Kesava Temple, Belur

The Hoysala Kesava Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is located in the town of Belur, about 30 km from Chikmagalur, Karnataka, India. One of the best specimens of Hoysala architecture, the temple was constructed in the twelfth century by the Hoysala ruler Vishnuvardhana.

The temple is a star-shaped trikuta (triple shrine) with three towers, each of which is about 37 meters tall. The temple is richly decorated with intricate carvings, including friezes of dancers, musicians, and mythological figures. 

The Hoysala Kesava Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Karnataka. It is a must-see for anyone interested in Indian history, architecture, or religion.

Here are some of the main historical events associated with the temple:

• • 1117: Construction of the temple begins under the reign of Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana.
  • 1135: The temple is completed and consecrated.
  • 1310: The temple is damaged by invading Muslim armies.
  • 1565: The temple is repaired by the Vijayanagara king Krishnadevaraya.
  • 1800s: The temple is restored by the British.
  • 1983: The temple is declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The main shrine houses a large statue of Lord Vishnu, which is flanked by statues of his consorts Lakshmi and Bhudevi.

• • Location: Belur town, about 30 km from Chikmagalur
  • Best time to visit: Morning or evening
  • Nearest attractions: Chennakeshava Temple, Halebidu, Belur Lake

4. Jain Temple, Gommateshwara

The Jain Temple, Gommateshwara, isn’t actually a single temple but a complex centered around a colossal statue in Shravanabelagola, Karnataka, India. Carved from a single granite block around 983 CE, the 57-foot tall statue depicts Bahubali, a Jain figure symbolizing peace, non-violence, and detachment from worldly matters.  This awe-inspiring monument is one of the largest monolithic statues in the world, standing tall for over a thousand years.

• • Location: Sravanabelagola town, about 80 km from Chikmagalur
  • Best time to visit: Morning or evening
  • Nearest attractions: Chandragiri Fort, Gommateshwara Statue, Bhagawan Bahubali Wildlife Sanctuary

5. Veeranarayana Temple, Anekere

The Veeranarayana Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu located in the village of Anekere, about 20 km from Chikmagalur, Karnataka, India. The temple was built in the 12th century by the Hoysala dynasty and is one of the finest examples of Hoysala architecture.

The temple is a trikuta (three-shrined) temple with a large central shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The other two shrines are dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The temple is built on a raised platform and has a stepped tower (vimana) over the central shrine. 

The Veeranarayana Temple is a protected monument of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

Here are some of the main historical features of the temple:

• • The Hoysala dynasty constructed the temple in the 12th century.
  • The temple is a trikuta (three-shrined) temple with a large central shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
  • The other two shrines are dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
  • The temple is built on a raised platform and has a stepped tower (vimana) over the central shrine.
  • The temple is richly decorated with sculptures and carvings, depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.
  • The Veeranarayana Temple is a protected monument of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

The temple is richly decorated with sculptures and carvings, depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.

• • Location: Anekere village, about 20 km from Chikmagalur
  • Best time to visit: Morning or evening
  • Nearest attractions: Anekere Lake, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Kemmangundi Hills

6. Ishvara Temple, Halebid

The Ishvara Temple, nestled in the historic town of Halebid in Karnataka, India, is a captivating example of early 13th-century Hoysala architecture. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it stands apart for its unique features. Unlike the more common rectangular plans, the Ishvara Temple boasts a mesmerizing 16-point star-shaped hall (mantapa) and a stellate shrine, where each corner boasts intricate designs. 

Construction used soapstone, allowing for the creation of a dazzling array of sculptures depicting themes from Shaivism, Vaishnavism, Shaktism, and even Vedic legends. Though modest in size, the Ishvara Temple’s intricate design and artistic mastery solidify its place among the most remarkable creations of the Hoysala era.

• • Location: Halebid town, about 40 km from Chikmagalur
  • Best time to visit: Morning or evening
  • Nearest attractions: Hoysaleswara Temple, Belur, Dorasamudra Lake

Best time to visit Temples in Chikmagalur

The best time to visit temples in Chikmagalur depends on what you prefer in terms of weather and crowds. Here’s a breakdown:

Pleasant weather and moderate crowds:

• • September to March: This is the peak season in Chikmagalur, with comfortable temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. It’s a great time to visit the temples if you don’t mind crowds and enjoy festive vibes, as many Hindu festivals fall during this period.

Less crowded and budget-friendly:

• • April to May: The weather starts to get warmer during this time, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C. However, it’s still a good time to visit if you’re on a budget and prefer fewer crowds. Keep in mind that some days may be uncomfortably hot for temple sightseeing.

Lush greenery and waterfalls (but with potential rain):

• • June to August: The monsoon season brings lush greenery and cascading waterfalls to Chikmagalur. However, it can also rain heavily, making temple visits less convenient. If you don’t mind the rain and humidity, you can find some great deals on accommodation during this time.

How to reach Chikmagalur

There are several ways to reach Chikmagalur, depending on your budget and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the options for foreign visitors:

Air:

• • The nearest airport to Chikmagalur is Mangalore International Airport (IXE), located about 150 kilometers away.
  • Several domestic airlines operate flights to Mangalore from major Indian cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, Chennai, and Delhi.
  • From Mangalore Airport, you can hire a taxi or prepaid cab to reach Chikmagalur. The ride takes approximately 3-4 hours and costs around ₹2,500 – ₹3,000.
  • You can also take a state-run or private bus from Mangalore to Chikmagalur, which is a more budget-friendly option but can take longer (around 4-5 hours).

Train:

• • Chikmagalur itself does not have a railway station.
  • Temples near Chikmagalur major railway station is Kadur, located about 40 kilometers away.
  • Trains connect Kadur to major Indian cities like Bangalore, Mysore, and Hassan.
  • From Kadur, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Chikmagalur. The taxi ride takes about an hour and costs around ₹1,000 – ₹1,200.

Bus:

• • Regular services are provided by a number of state-run and private buses to and from Chikmagalur, linking it to important towns and cities in Karnataka and nearby states.
  • Popular routes include Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Hubli, and Hassan.
  • Buses are a budget-friendly option, with fares varying depending on the distance and type of bus (AC or non-AC).

Taxi:

• • You can hire a taxi from major cities like Bangalore or Mysore to reach Chikmagalur. This is a comfortable option, especially if you have luggage or are traveling with a group.
  • The journey time can vary depending on the traffic, but it typically takes 4-6 hours from Bangalore and 3-4 hours from Mysore.
  • Taxi fares are generally higher than buses, but you can negotiate the price beforehand.

Rental Cars:

• • Renting a car can be a great option for exploring Chikmagalur at your own pace. Several car rental companies operate in Bangalore and other major cities.
  • However, driving in India can be chaotic, so it’s recommended only for experienced drivers comfortable with Indian traffic rules.

Tips for visitor

Here are some tips for visitors after visiting temples in Chikmagalur:

• • Dress modestly: As with most religious places in India, it’s recommended to dress modestly when visiting temples in Chikmagalur. This means covering your knees and shoulders for both men and women.
  • Remove shoes: It’s customary to remove your shoes before entering the temple sanctum (inner sanctum where the deity is housed). Socks are optional, but some temples may prefer barefoot entry. Look for designated shoe racks near the entrance.
  • Be respectful:  Maintain silence and avoid loud conversations inside the temple. Photography is usually allowed in the temple complex but not always inside the sanctum. It’s best to ask permission from a temple priest or caretaker before taking photos.
  • Offerings: You can make offerings to the deities in the form of flowers, fruits, or sweets. These are usually available for purchase near the temple entrance.
  • Blessing: After offering prayers, you can seek blessings from the temple priest. They might apply a tilak (religious mark) on your forehead with sandal paste or kumkum (red powder).
  • Temple etiquette: Avoid pointing your feet or back towards the deity while offering prayers. It’s considered disrespectful.
  • Explore the surroundings: Many temples in Chikmagalur are located amidst beautiful landscapes or have historical monuments nearby. Take some time to explore the temple complex and surrounding areas after your prayers.
  • Enjoy the local culture: Sample the local cuisine after your temple visit. Chikmagalur is known for its coffee and South Indian delicacies.
  • Respect the local customs: Be mindful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting smaller villages or lesser-known temples.
  • Help preserve the temples: If you see any littering or vandalism around the temple premises, kindly report it to the temple authorities.