Amaragiri Malekal Tirupathi, Hassan

Name : Malekal Tirupathi aka., Mavinakere Sri Lakshmi Venkataramanaswamy


Location :

The Sri Lakshmi Venkataramanaswamy Temple is situated in the Holenarasipura Taluk, of the Hassan District in Karnataka. It is 20 kilometers away from Hassan, and about 165 kilometers from Bangalore. It is well connected by road and rail, hence getting there is easy.

When driving on the Holenarasipura highway, the Sri Lakshmi Venkatarmanaswamy temple is about 1.5 kilometers after Hassan. It offers a pleasant break from the city for those who want to get away from the concrete jungles of Bangalore for a weekend, amidst the lush greenery of the surrounding countryside and the hills.


Legend :

The name Malekal and the installation of Lord Venkataramanaswamy here has got a legendary story. Devaguru Shri Vashishta lived here and went to penance worshiping Lord Venkataramanswamy for over 800 years, who in turn gave his darshan on the day of Ashada Shuddha Dwadashi. To mark this event Maharathothsava is being held every year even now. After getting Tapasiddhi with the darshan of Lord Venkateshwara left the place. As a result there was nobody to perform pooja to Lord Venkataramanaswamy installed by Devaguru Vashishta. As the days passed the ashrama built by him has perished and the statue (Vigraha) of Lord Venkataramana Swamy installed by him submerged in the earth. After lapse of thousands of year the palegar of Chithradurga who were ruling the area 800 years back. They were the devotees of Thirupathi Thimmappa i.e. Venkataramana Swamy. On one occasion Shri Thimmappa Nayaka one of the Palegar of Chithradurga had a dream of getting the darshan of Lord Venkataramana and had a direction of the lord to construct a temple for him and can have his darshan instead of Thirupathi. Thimmappa Nayaka was in fix to know the geneusness of his dream. Then lord Venkateshwara again appeared in his dream and told that he can be found on top of the hill. If the palegar follow the route along with Tulasi (Basil) male which can be found at the bottom of the hill.

Accordingly Thimmappa Nayaka found the Venkateshwara statue (Vigraha) on the top of the hill following The Thulasi male. As such the place has named after male as Malekallu and with a result the Palegaras can have the Darshan of Lord Venkataramana instead of at Thirupathi. Hence that has been named as Malekallu Thirupathi. The temple is on the top of the hill and it has got over 1200 steps.

Description :


Malekallu Malekal Tirupathi hill has 1300 steps and its beleived that lord Rama had visited this place. Its the only place you can see a standing Venkateshwara idol other than famous Tirupati of Andhra Pradesh. Its the only place you can see a standing Venkateshwara idol other than famous Tirupati of Andhra Pradesh.

At the down hill of the temple Lord Govindarajaswamy live. The utsava murthy's (festival deities) of main deity (Lord Vekataramana Swamy) is housed at Govindarajaswamy temple itself. In view of inconvenience on top of the hill for performing Rathothsava and other similar type of Uthsavas.The Govindaraja Swamy temple was built by Palegar Thimmappanayaka as he has found the Govindaraja Swamy statue (Vigraha) while constructing a lake to solve the drought problem.

As such the temple on top of the hill was called as Amaragiri Tirupathi and the temple at the down hill has been called as Govindaraja Pattana (town).

Another important aspect of the place is that while at Thirupathi Lord Venkataramana is installed ALONE on the hill top and the Govindaraja Swamy at the down hill, At Malekallu Lord venkataramana and goddess Padmavathi are installed TOGETHER on top of the hill. Newly wedded couples visit the temple to seek the blessing from Lord Venkatramana and Goddess Padmavathi.  Kalyanotsava is a major performance of ritual happening here witnessed by thousands of devotees. There will be pooja performance in the temple every day from morning 7 AM to night 8 PM.

The temple serves as a family deity for surrounding villages and enjoys the patronage of the locals. The two festivals celebrated with great pomp and splendor is Hanuman Jayanthi and Vaikunta Yekadashi. No one knows when and how this deity was formed though it is rumored to have been consecrated by the great Vasishta. This temple can be visited throughout the year, and an ideal time to go would be during September to March, as the weather will be pleasant.

Festivals :

Ugadi festival, Shriramanavami, Dodda Garudotsava, Asahada Shuddha Dwadasi, Ashada Shuddha Triyodasi and many more festivals are conducted here with great grandeur. The annual Brahmotsavam is held every year and it is celebrated with great pomp and splendour.

Websites :

http://rcmysore-portal.kar.nic.in/temples/malekaltirupathitemple/about.html

Bheemana Kindi

Name : Bheemana Kindi

Location :

Driving down from Bengaluru on Kanakapura road will take approximately 2 to 3 hours depending on the time of travel. Reach Kanakapura (50 Kms) then go straight on the main road it will take to place called Sathanur (a further 21 Kms). From Sathanur, a diversion to the right goes to Kabbala village(another 6 Kms). Near Kabbala durga base take right diversion and move another 3 Kms. to Kanchana Halli which will take you to base of Bhimana Kindi.

Description :

Bhimana Kindi near Kanchana Halli in Halgur (Malavalli) – Channapattana Road. This Hill has a Natural Rock Arch and is a good trekking place for beginners. Some believe that this arch was formed due to hitting of a huge rock by the Mace of the Bhima (Pandava, Mahabharatha). Geologists say that it is a natural phenomenon.

One has to go through the coconut farm and through the muddy road to reach the bottom of the hill. There is a Small temple at base of Bhimana Kindi which can be considered as Landmark point to start the trek. From this temple, one can find stair case type of steps which will take us to the top. one has to climb about more than 500 stone steps in order to reach the top of hill. The 35 light poles is a source of guidance to the top of the hill. It takes approximately 3hours to reach the top.

Animals like Bear, Elephant are found here, hence its advisable to travel in groups and avoid late nigh trekking or camping here.

Websites :

http://www.bgbaligatraveldiary.com/moon-light-night-trek-to-bhimana-kindi-with-bat/

Bettadapura Sidilu Mallikarjunaswamy & Veerabhadra temple

Name :  Sidilu Mallikarjunaswamy temple


Location :

The Sidilu Mallikarjunaswamy temple on the top of Bettadapura hill is one of the hidden marvels of Karnataka.
How to reach:  Bus: There is a direct bus which goes to Bettadapura from Bangalore. Alternately, board a bus to Mysore, from there, there are buses bound towards Hassan via Bettadapura.
Car/Bike: Head on SH17 towards Mysore, after Srirangapatna, turn towards Elvaala to join Mysore-Madikeri road. Continue on the road till Periyapatna. At Periyapatna, turn right towards Bettadapura on State highway 21.

Description :

Bettadapura or "Land of Hills" is known for the famous Sidilu Mallikarjuna Swamy temple which was built by the Cholas more than 1000 years ago and has not been damaged much as the visitors have to climb a hillock to reach there through a flight of 4000 steps. Bettadapura is home to the Sankethi community which migrated from Shankottai in Tamil Nadu around 600 years ago. From Bettadapura they migrated to several other villages along the banks of Cauvery.

One significance of the temple is the fact that the temple is believed to be hit by lightning at least once a year around Deepavali time. Hence derives the name "Sidilu" meaning lightning in Kannada. Also a jaatre or procession is held once a year during Deepavali in which many people from the surrounding villages take part by carrying the idols of Lord Ganesha, Shiva and Parvati to the top of the hill and bring it back by evening.

It becomes difficult to climb as the day sets in. There are mantaps at regular intervals for a quick power break. At around half way mark one can see the ruins of the ancient Veerabhadra temple which has a Shiva Linga guarded by the Nandi bull. The temple is too dark from inside and is not at all maintained. This place is completely in a neglected state and is used by the climbers to relax for a while.

It takes about two hours to reach the temple. The temple premises looks wonderful and the view of the village from the top is breathtaking and its worth the effort spent in climbing around 4000 steps. The temple is built on a plateau and is a simple stone structure with a Gopuram. The inner sanctum of the temple has a Shiva Linga or Mallikarjuna which is believed to be struck by lightning every year.  There are huge copper vessels of antiquity here to indicate large scale feeding of pilgrims and the enshrined deity is also called Annadani (donor of cooked rice) Mallikarjuna.

Websites :

http://www.thelightbaggage.com/2013/06/bettadapura-village-with-rich-history.html 

Sri Prasanna Anjaneyaswamy Temple, Ragigudda, Bengaluru

Name : Sri Prasanna Anjaneyaswamy Temple, Ragigudda, Bengaluru

Location :

Jayanagar, Bangalore - 560 069
Phone : 26580500, 26594255
email : ragiguddavk2009@gmail.com

Legend :

Sudharma was a peasant and kind woman who always helped the needy and in distress. She was a dharma chintamai and use to feed who ever comes to her house and had the practice of eating only after offering food to the visitor. She was given on marriage to the son of a palayakar in the outskirts of present Bengaluru. The daughter-in-law of a Palayakar was not liked by her mother in law. While Sudharma is generous and ever ready to help one and all, her mother-in-law was just oppose to all these. Sudharma was liked by all and the people use to bless her for her good nature and tell her that she will definitely be blessed by God.

One fine day just after the harvest, they had three visitors who were extremely bright and ‘tejasvi’, asking for biksha standing on the doorway of the house. Sudharma was too pleased to give some newly harvested ragi to these maha purush. [There is popular belief that the Ragi grain is blessed by Sri Raghava [Sri Rama] and Sri Kapila maharishi and hence the grain is also known as ‘Raghava Dhanya’.] At the sight of this, her mother-in-law became furious and said that the new grains cannot be offered as biksha to strangers. When Sudharma insisted to part with the ragi grains which she had already offered to them as biksha, her mother-in-law became more furious. The three ‘tejasvi’ purush stood there watching this. Sudharma told her mother-in-law that once the ragi grains had been offered as biksha it cannot be taken back, and it is an adharmic act. Mother-in-law stood her ground and refused the biksha to three maha purush. Sudharma felt that if the ragi grains could not be offered to these maha purush for food, the grains are of no use to her either. The moment she thought so, the heap of newly harvested ragi grains turned to stone and looked like a small hillock. Three maha purushas gave dharshan to Sudharma as Sri Brahma, Sri Vishnu, and Sri Mahadev and blessed her. And as per Sudharma’s wish stood there to bless one and all who come there seeking their blessings.

The heap of ragi grains turned into hillock use to be called as Raghava dhanya guddi then in the course of time it became Rahava guddi and now Ragigudda. The ‘trimurti’ who came there and is part of the incident is present to bless us all as per the wishes of Sudharma.

Description :

The huge temple complex is a feast to the eyes from the distance and enhances the devotee’s purity of mind. The complex could be seen built on ground level, at a smaller peak on the right of the main peak and at the main peak of the hillock.

At the ground level there is an office building on the left, a Prasad hall, a huge open air auditorium right in the front. Behind one can see goshala and through the passage that leads the devotee to have dharshan of ‘trimurthi’. On to the right side in the middle of the hillock one could see a temple complex with three vimana and devotees can have dharshan of Sri Ganapati, Sri Rajarajeshwari and Navagraha. The uniqueness of the Navagraha in this temple is that all the navagrahas are seen with their consort and mounted on their respective vahanas. The Sun is seen with his consorts Usha and Chaya in the higher pedestal on the chariot driven by seven horses.

Trimurthi Sannadhi :

Beautifully carved out Trimurties on single platform of 32 ft. tall monolithic blocks are seen in this Ragigudda temple complex. The devotees have the dharshan of Trimurties and seek the blessings in this kshetra Ragigudda.

The Ragigudda

The sannadhi of Sri Prasanna Anjaneyaswamy is on the top of Ragigudda. The temple at the top of the hillock if seen from one angle it will be seen as if the temple is on the back of an ‘annapakshi’ [a celestial bird] and floating in the air.

There is a separate step on the left that leads the devotee to the top of the hillock where Sri Hanuman’s sannadhi is present. After claiming around one hundred and fifty steps we land in a fairly big porch. In the centre we see big round pillar with lotus petal. One can see the main prakara on the left side. A huge wooden engraved arch way with Lord Hanuman in the centre and Sri Rama parivar on the right and Sri Siva parivar on the left is feast to the eyes of the devotee. In the sides of the arch way ‘dasavathara’ of Lord Vishnu is engraved.

Once entered in the hall, devotee could see the sannadhi of Lord in the center, sannadhi of Lord Rama parivar on the right and sannadhi that of Lord Siva on the left.

Devotee could see Lord Hanuman from the entrance itself. Lord Hanuman is seen with Sanjeevi Mountain on His left hand and in the right hand He holds a ‘gadha’ [mace] which is resting on His right shoulder. Lords’ tail is seen raised above His head and resting on the Sanjeevi parvath. He has put forward his left leg indicating that He will stamp down evil doers. Lord is seen wearing ornaments on His ankle, leg, hip, wrist, hands, chest, and neck. Lord’s head is covered with an ornamental crown. His ears has rathna kuntalam, on His forehead is urdha pundarikam. Lords eyes are seen glowing with karuna.

Festivals :

The annual function of this temple is Sri Hanumath Jayanthi which is celebrated on a grand scale. The twelve days mahotsava attracts huge devotees. There will be special poojas, abhishekams and homas during these days. Large numbers of devotees are served mahaprasada during this annual function.

Pooja Timings :

The temple will be open from 08:00-11:30 am and 05:00-08:30 pm, but on Saturdays and Sundays will be open till 12:30 and 09:00 respectively.

Mahamangalarthi : Morning around 11:00 am, on sat around 11:30 am and Evening around 08:00-08:30pm.

Websites :

http://www.geocities.ws/hanumantemples/kar/kar2.html  - All credit goes to Ms. Bawani Karthik, Coimbatore

Renukambe [Yellamma] Chandragutti, Soraba Taluk in Shimoga

Name :  Renukambe [Yellamma] Temple in Shimoga

Location :

Chandragutti is situated at a distance of 16 kms from Soraba (main bus stand). Soraba is one of the beautiful villages in Sahyadri ranges.

Description :

Renukamba Temple at Chandragutti in Karnataka is dedicated to Goddess Renuka. The temple is around 17km from Soraba. It is a cave temple and is in the form of half moon. The main deity worshipped in the temple is Goddess Renuka and she is also known as Guthiyamma. The hill on which the temple is located is known as Chandragutti.

Chandragutti is a religious center for goddess Renukamba wife of Jamadagni and mother Parusharam. The temple is situated on top of a hill which is completely covered with greenery. In short it’s very scenic. As soon as we reached the entrance of the temple we were welcomed by a small pond which is known as “Tottila baavi” and also there is small rock on which foot prints of main deity is carved. Once we crossed few steps, on to the right hand side there is a small temple of “Kalabairaveshwara”. In this temple lord is in both human and in “lingam” form. Few steps from this temple towards hill top will lead to Renukamba Temple.

By the time we had reached this place temple was closed. We got to know by a villager that this temple will be open for full day only on Tuesday and Friday and rest of the week temple is opened for few hours in morning. Since the temple was closed we could not see main deity, we could see “Matangi” seated along with her company in between two huge rocks. The main deity is inside a cave with golden coverings or golden statue as people say.

Along with this goddess there are 2 more temple, one of sacred seven headed “Nagaraja” (snake god) and “Parusharam” right in front of the Goddess Renukamba and the other one is of “Shoolada Beerappa”, there is a stair way which leads towards down the hill here is the temple of Shoolada Beerappa. This Shoolada Beerappa has hundreds of tridents (thrisuhla in Kannada) emerged from earth. Behind this is a small pond known as “Ammanavara Honda”. In south India “Ammnavaru” means goddess. Water for this pond comes from a bigger pond from top of the hill known as “tavarakere” (tavare means lotus in Kannada). The same water continues further ahead and reaches Tottila baavi

How to reach – We took a bus from Sagara (our main point) to Soraba and then from there another bus to Chandragutti, it was the same for return also. There are many (private) buses to Chandragutti from Soraba, Shimoga and very less direct bus from Sagara. Chandragutti is 106 kms from Shimoga. It can be reached from Soraba (approx 16kms), Siddapur (approx 18kms) and from Sirsi (approx 40kms) Sagara(approx 45 kms). Nearest Railway Station is Shimoga (106 Km).

See also 
As Chandragutti and Gudavi Bird Sanctuary or on the same road, one can visit these two together. They both a have difference of approx 10-12 kms from each other. From Soraba first comes Gudavi, at one point we need to take a right turn and continue approx of 6 kms from this Turing point.
I thank articles on net, my friends and villagers for helping me with the info.

Every year, there is a gathering of as many as 200,000 of her devotees at the Yellamma Gudda temple in Saundatti. This temple is an example of ancient architecture and dates back to the Kadamba period. Another temple is in Mahur, Maharashtra, the supposed birth place of the goddess, which finds mention in Devi Gita, the final chapter of Devi Bhagawatam as, "Matripura in the Sahyadri mountain; here the Devi Renuka dwells...". ( Renuka devi Temple, Mahur )

Legend :

Legend has it that Renukamba, a king of the Chandragutti region, was married to Rishi Jamadagni. The king had got Renukamba as daughter after he offered prayers to Goddess Mookambika.

Renukamba was such a devout wife that she could carry water in pots made of sand and she is used to carry the water pot on her head with snakes as pads for the pot. Not a single drop of water fell from her pot.

But once Sage Jamadagni doubted her character and asked his son Parashurama to kill her. Parashurama took his mother to the cave at Chandragutti and cut her head leaving the torso in the cave. He took the head to his father. Sage Jamadagni offers a boon to Parasurama who in turn asks the life of his mother. The sage immediately gives the boon and Renukamba is brought back to life.

This divine incident is believed to have taken place at at Chandragutti in Karnataka.

The popular festival in the temple is held in the month of March.
CHANDRAGUTTI RENUKAMBA TEMPLE CONTACT ADDRESS

Executive Officer,
Shree Renukamba Temple,
Chandragutti,
Chandragutti Post,
Soraba Taluk,
Shimoga District
Pin – 577429
91-8184-262488
958184-262488

Websites :

http://www.hindu-blog.com/2013/10/renukamba-temple-at-chandragutti-in.html

https://bluecanon.wordpress.com/2014/05/08/chandragutti-soraba-taluk-shimoga-district/

Moola Mookambika Temple Kodachadri

Name :  Kodachadri Moola Mookambika Temple

Location :

Kodachadre Hill forms a background to the famed temple of Mookambika in Kollur. It’s placed at a distance of 21 kilometre from Kollur and 15 kilometre from Nagodi village in Hosanagara taluk. From Bangalore, one has to go to Shimoga (285 km) and from there, one can take public transport to reach Nagodi village (Hosanagara Taluk). From Udupi, it is three hours journey to Nagodi village, from where trekking starts.

Kodachadri peak is connected with an all rough jeep road (partially metalled) on which only jeeps can travel. As this hilly road is not maintained properly, only expert local jeep drivers can take the jeep to the top. Jeeps are available for hire at Kollur and at Kattinahole village near Kodachadri base. Motorcycle riding on this highly uneven, steep, mud track with sharp hairpin curves with gradients, may be challenging and risky.

Legend :

The temple is a popular destination for Hindu pilgrims and it’s said to place where thousands of years ago Goddess Mookambika fought and killed the demon Mookasura. In Historic times, individuals used to trek from Nagara state.

Description :

Sage Adi Shankara is claimed to have visited this place, meditated here. A small temple called Sarvajnapeetha, designed with stone is dedicated to Adi Shankara at the highest of Kodachadri. A temple dedicated to the traditional Mother god Mookambika is located near travelers cottage and is believed to be the moola sthana (the origin) of Sri Mookambika Devi. From this spot, it’s a 2 kilometer trek to the top. Just from there, a vertical path ends up in a little cave known as Chitramoola, from where the Mookambika temple of Kollur is visible.

A number of the pilgrims from South Indian states who visit Kollur take a trek to Kodachadri also. Dr. K. Shivarama Karantha, noted author of Udupi District trekked to Kodachadri in 1940s and appreciated the natural beauty of this place by placing Kodachadri as most lovely of 3 mountain peaks of coastal Karnataka (the alternative 2 being Kuduremukh and Kumara Parvata). Kodachadre is visited by locals and Keralites in large numbers since long term.

                                  

Sarvajna peetha:

Sarvajna Peeth is a little temple like structure near the height where Adi Shankara meditated. This little structure bears a name that is similar to Sarvajanapetha, additionally known as Sharada Peeth of Jammu and Kashmir (that was visited by Adi Shankara during his long religious journey, where he defeated different students in philosophical debate and opened the southern door of the temple).

Ganesha Guha is near the journey way to Sarvajna peetha.

Iron Pillar :

One iron pillar of concerning 5km 40 feet length is planted erect in front of Moola Mookambika Temple near peak of Kodachadre and its compared with large similar historic iron pillars placed at Dhar, Mount Abu etc. Devotees believe that this is the trishula utilized by god Mookambika to kill a demon known as Mookasura as per native tradition. Indian scientists from IGCAR Kalpakkam and KREC (Now NITK), Suratkal conducted a check on the Iron pillar and found that it had been made of traditional Indian metallurgic skills and not from fashionable casting ways. It’s found made from pure iron. It’s additionally found to be less affected by corrosion, despite of wet conditions prevailing there because of heavy rains. This iron pillar is considered as testimony of ancient Indian iron craftmanship.

Websites :

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kodachadri

http://www.beontheroad.com/2009/12/backpacking-through-western-ghats-day-7.html#

Nellitheertha Somanatheshwara Cave Temple

Name : Nellitheertha Somanatheshwara Cave Temple

Location :

There are several routes to reach Nellitheertha.
From Mangalore, take the route towards Moodabidri. Travel beyond Gurupura, Kaikamba and reach Yedapadavu. Here, take a deviation towards Muchur. Nellitheertha is 8 km away from Yedapadavu.

Reach Kateel from Mangalore. Nellitheertha is about 5 km away from Kateel.

While driving from Bangalore, one can take a deviation at B C Road and go through Polali and Kaikamba and reach Nellitheertha. This avoids having to travel through Mangalore.

Legends :

1) The history of the temple dates back to 1487. Inside the cave, water drops keep dripping down in the shape of gooseberries (amla) to form the lake and hence the name Nelli (Amla) Theertha (holy water)

2) There was an Asura named Arunasura who managed to get the blessing of Sage Jabali and got from him the sacred Gayathri Mantra. He started misusing the power of this Mantra and began to harass the world. Maharishi Jabali was not aware of this as he was performing meditation all the while. Learning from Narada Maharishi of Arunasura’s atrocities, Jabali decided that he had to set right a situation that he in a way helped create.

It is believed that the cave in Nellitheertha was used by Sage Jabali to perform a penance to appease Lord Durga Parameshwari. Lord Durga appeared in front of Sage Jabali and assured him that she would kill the demon Arunasura. She later took the shape of a wasp and killed Arunasura on the banks of the river Nandini. At that place today is a beautiful temple of Lord Durgaparameshwari and the place is very well known as Kateel.


Lord Durga also assured Sage Jabali that Shiva, Vishnu and Durga herself would grace that region and that there would be temples to worship all three of them in the vicinity. One can find a Vishnu temple near Nellitheertha at a place called Kompadavu. Lord Durga is worshipped in a place called Muchur, again near Nellitheertha. And Lord Shiva made Nellitheertha his abode.

Description :

Nellitheertha Cave Temple dates back to at least 1487 CE. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. To the right of the temple there is a natural cave which is about 200 metres (660 ft) long. As there is no proper gateway to the temple, the visitors are forced to crawl in on their knees to peep inside the sanctum. There is a lake and a Shiva Lingam inside it.

The main deity of the temple is Sri Somanatheshwara (Shiva). The temple also has MahaGanapati (Elephant - headed God) and Jabali Maharshi as deities here. In fact, the Jabali Maharshi Brindavana was recently constructed. In typical Tulu-naadu (Tulu is the native language in this part of the woods) tradition, the temple also has its set of "Bhootas". Bhootas are considered as the "Ganas" or warrior-assistants of the Gods. According to mythology, bhootas are appointees of Shiva and they administer the temple/village. The main bhootas of the Nellitheertha temple are Pili-Chamundi (Pili means Tiger in Tulu), Kshetrapala, Raktheshwari and Doomavathy.

The Lingam of Shri Somanatheshwara has been made out of pure Saligrama and is considered very sacred. The Lingam has been built as Ardhanareeshwara. There are other artifacts in and around the temple which are pointers to the past glory of this place. Among them are the “Arasule Mancha” (King’s seat), “Arasule Mantapa” (King’s abode) and the “Jina Vigraha” (Jain Statue). The temple of Shri Mahaganapati has been rebuilt recently and is splendid in itself.

The most beautiful aspect of the temple is the Cave. Apart from the cave, of course, there are numerous other places surrounding the temple which are worth visiting. To the east of the temple’s entrance is the Amblattapadavu hillock. This hillock is about 300-500 feet high and offers a splendid scenery from the top. One can spot places such as the Bajpe Airport, Mangalore, Panambur, the MRPL refinery and Suratkal. On a day with clear skies, one can even spot the Arabian Sea. Amblattapadavu offers a wonderful view of sunrise and sunset everyday.

The “Nagappa Kere” (Snake Pond) is a small pond situated to the north of the temple. This natural pond, along with its religious significance, is also a scenic spot. All devotees who want to enter the cave temple have to clean themselves by taking bath in this pond and only then are they allowed into the cave. The lake is at its best immediately after the monsoons (Oct—Dec) when its crystal clear water is a swimmer’s delight. There are plans to build a small herbal park around this pond as also a small deer park.

Nagappa Kere

The “Arasule Mancha” or King’s seat is situated near the main entrance of the temple towards the north. Historical evidence suggests that this seat was where the king of the land used to be seated when he visited the temple. It is believed that even today, the spirits of the former rulers visits the place at night and so it is prohibited to sit on the seat after dusk.

The Nellitheertha temple is a symbol of secularism. The temple and the cave is open to members of all beliefs and castes. Any person, above the age of 5, is allowed to enter the cave irrespective of gender. Truly, Nellitheertha is a special and model place.

Another unique feature of this cave is that it is closed for nearly 6 months a year. The cave is open only between October and April. Though there are religious reasons associated with this (it is said that the cave is open 6 months a year for humans and is meant for Gods and Rishis the remaining 6 months), the point is that the 6 month break each year helps the cave to "rejuvenate". The water freshens up and the animals inside enjoy the lack of disturbance. There are plenty of animals inside the cave. The cave houses snakes of all varieties, scorpions, porcupines and huge number of bats. Troubling or hurting the animals inside the cave is strictly prohibited.

Cave Entrance

The cave :

The main attraction of the temple is the cave. Situated right at the entrance of the temple towards the left of the main door, this huge cave is one of nature's wonders. Unspoilt by human indulgence, the cave is a nature lover's delight. A visit to the inside of the cave is considered a sacred and spiritual experience by devotees.

The entrance to the cave is huge and wide. Within a few feet, the trail narrows down and one is forced to bend and crawl forward. Subsequently, one has to fall flat on the tummy and crawl ahead. Finally, after about 300-400 metres, the cave widens again and we find a huge lake in there. There is a natural Shiva Lingam in front of the lake and devotees pray and worship the lingam. The most amazing part of the cave is the fine quality of the mud available inside.

It is said that the mud here has healing powers and is treated as prasadam by devotees. Right behind the Shiva Lingam, a second cave starts off. Not many people have ventured into this second cave till date. A few who have gone ahead vouch for the extreme terrain they have encountered. It surely will be challenging for the adventure lovers.

Festivals :

Calendar of Shri Nellitheertha Temple
Tula Sankramana	Cave Opens
Chathurdashi before Hunnime in Dhanur Masa (Dec—Jan)	5 day annual festival
Shivarathri	Shivarathri Utsava
Ganesha Chathurthi	Ganesha Utsave—Daiva Parva
Deepavali	Daiva Parva—Ranga Pooje

Websites :

 http://shivamandirs.blogspot.in/2009_07_01_archive.html

http://www.nellitheertha.com/

http://shivallibrahmins.com/tulunaadu-temples/mangalore-taluk/sri-somanatheshwara-cave-temple-nellitheertha/ 

Sri Karinjeshwara temple

Name : Sri Karinjeshwara temple

Location :

It is situated in the town of Karinja, in the Dakshin Kannada district, is one of the most honoured pilgrim spots in Karnataka. This temple is situated in the Bantwal taluka and is atop a hill in the Karinja village.

The Sri Karinjeshwara temple lies 14 kilometres away from Bantwal and 35 kilometres away from Mangalore. The nearest railhead and airport is located in the city of Mangalore. The temple is well connected by roads. The temple is just two kilometres away from Vegga on the Mangalore-Belthangady route.

History :

About 800 years ago, two brahmin youth Karinjattaya and Ichlattaya brothers arrived at Kumbla county from Uttara Kannada for publicising Sanatana belief. At that period Tulunadu was ruled by Taulava King. Bhoota worship was the ritual in practice at that time in this region. The place where Ichlattaya settled was called Ichlampady and the other by Karinjattaya was called Karinja. In the middle of Karinja and Ichlampady in a scenic beautiful area was built a Lord Shiva Temple. These brahmin without any decendants had given away their agricultural property along with the Temple to the Bunts who were helping them.

The Parvathi temple, the bigger of the two, situated halfway up the hill

Description :

The temple is split into two parts. Halfway up the mountain sits the temple of Parvathi. Also at this level is a temple of Ganapathi, the son of Shiva and Parvathi. At the top of the mountain is the temple of Shiva. For most of the year, daily rituals and religious festivities are held separately at each temple.

The Surya Sadashiva Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort Goddess Parvati. A devotee will have to climb ( only by foot ) as many as 555 steps in order to reach the Sri Karinjeshwara temple.

Situated halfway up the hill, this Parvathi temple is surrounded by a clean courtyard, at one end of which is a new, almost completed anna chathra - a dining hall. Another steeper flight of steps leads up to the peak of he hill on which is situated the Karinjeshwara temple. The peak of the hill provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the forested foothills of the western ghats. A troop of friendly monkeys have made their home here. The leader of the monkeys is called as Karinje Dhadda. Each morning, after the daily pooja, the naivedyam is ritually offered to the monkeys.


Theerthams :

The pond at bottom of the hill  known as "Gadha Theertha". According to the priest ,  the Gadha Theertha was carved out when Bhima knelt  down and threw his mace (Gadha) down.

The are other 3 ponds namely Handi (Pig) Theertha , Ungushta (Toe) Theertha and Jaanu (Knee) Theertha . Later, two ponds were formed when Bhima knelt down to throw his mace , according to the priest . The holy waters of the ponds are believed to contain special powers in the curing various diseases .

Ungushta Theertham

Jaanu Theertham

Gadha Theertham

Festivals : 

The most important festival celebrated in Sri Karinjeshwara temple is that of Shivaratri. This is a four day event.

During the wee hours of the morning, elaborate homas and pujas are conducted at all the temples on the first day of Shivaratri.

On the second and the most important day, the idol of Lord Shiva is carried down and united with that of Goddess Parvati. This is done amidst a lot of festivities and pujas.


The third day marks the Rathotsava or the Chariot Festival. In this day, both idols are paraded around; first at the Parvati temple and then at ground level by means of a chariot of ratha. On the later half of the third day both idols are carried back to the Parvati temple.

On the fourth and the last night of Shivratri, Lord Shiva is once again taken to Goddess Parvati.
Both idols are then taken for a stroll and after this; they are taken back to their respective temples.


Websites :

http://www.bantwal.com/karinjeshwara_temple.php

http://travel.sulekha.com/a-hill-with-a-view_mangalore-travelogue-1731.htm

http://teamgsquare.blogspot.in/2010/10/mt-karinja.html 

Narahari Parvatha Sadashiva Temple

Name : Narahari Parvatha Sadashiva Temple

Location :

Narahari Parvatha Sadashiva Temple is located at a distance of 28 km from Mangalore in Bantwal taluk of Dakshina Kannada district. Narahari Parvatha is surrounded by panoramic scenes and fascinating greeneries.

Legend :

According to a legend, Sri Krishna (Lord Hari) accompanied with Arjuna (Nara) offered penance here to free themselves from the sins committed during the Mahabharatha’s Kurukshetra war. Lord Hari as a sign of his visit sculpted Shanka (Conch), Chakra (Wheel), Gadha (Heavy Weapon) and Padma (Lotus) giving rise to the four ‘Teerthakoopas’ (Holy Ponds) which are present even today. Arjuna purified himself by bathing in these holy ponds and installed the Shivalinga and worshipped it and hence the hill gets its unique name ‘Narahari Sadashiva’.

Description :

This hill which is famous for its ‘Sadashiva Temple’ is 1,000 feet above sea-level holding mythological secrets dating back to the age of Pandavas.

It could be pilgrimage to the devotees or an expedition for the trekkers. It takes a climb of 333 steps to reach the top.

The boards that say ‘Shiva Shiva’ on the sides of the railing can be a motivation for the devotees to stick to their climb and hence honour their deity. Once you reach the top, the four ‘Teerthakoopas’ are an unbelievable sight as they are perfectly in the shape of a Shanka (conch), Chakra (wheel), Gadha (weapon) and Padma (lotus).


 

 Spectacular view :

The panoramic view from the top can keep anyone rooted to the ground for hours. When you stand on this mountain, you can see Sulliamale, Ballamale on the eastern side and Kadenjamale on the southern side. With national highway on one side and Mangalore Hassan railway line on the other, the sight of the graceful Nethravathi River makes the view exquisite. Soon after the magnificent sunset, the lights from the nearby towns such as Pane Mangaluru, Kalladka and B C road make us feel that we are gazing at the stars from heaven.

 

Festivals :

People throng this mountain during 'Aati Amavasya' and 'Sona Amavasya' for Teerthasnana (Dip in the ponds). The Renovated Bramhakalasha establishment day, Shivaratri, Nagapanchami and Sri Ganesh Chaturthi are the other festivals celebrated with pomp in this temple. The last Monday of the Karthika month is considered to be an auspicious and vibrant day as various religious and cultural programmes are held. Taking a dip in the ponds on this day is considered to be sacred. So, people are seen flocking the hill during this particular day.

Popular beliefs:

Devotees believe that by performing 'Baliwadu Seva' in this temple, people can overcome their fears. By performing 'Pasharpane' people can get relief from breathing problems, by performing 'Thotilu Magu Seva', the barren can be blessed with children and with Tender Coconut Abhisheka all the desires will be fulfilled.

Websites :

http://www.bantwal.com/narahari_parvatha.php

http://www.daijiworld.com/news/news_disp.asp?n_id=63015

Kunjargiri

Name :  Kunjargiri

Location :

Kunjargiri is approximately 11 Kilometers from Shree Krishna Math in Udupi, five kms from Katapadi and two kms from Kunjargiri Cross road. Kunjaru is a hamlet in Kurkaal village, about 11 kms to the south-east of Udupi. This village gets its reputation owing to the temple of Goddess Durga situated on the hillock known as ‘Kunjargiri’ or ‘Durgabetta’ or ‘Vimanagiri’.

Legend :

It is believed that the pious temple idol was installed by none other than Lord Parashurama himself. Hence, in the vicinity, there are temples of both Goddess Durga and Lord Parashurama.

After installing ‘Durga’ on the top of Vimanagiri, now known as Kunjargiri, Parashurama created four Thirthas- ponds of holy water. They are called Gadathirtha, Banathirtha, Parashuthirtha and Dhanusthirtha, in the four sides of Durgabetta. It is belived that Parashurama is in deep penance in the cave in eastern side below the Durgabetta even today.

Other names for the temple :

Since these high abodes of Durga and Lord Parashurama look like ‘elephants,’ it gets the name ‘Kunjargiri,’ with ‘Kunjara’ notifying an elephant. It is also called ‘Vimanagiri’ because mythology has it that gods and goddesses had flown on their flying machines (vimana) to shower floral tribute when the idol of goddess Durga was being installed by Parashurama.  The quiet surroundings coupled by green vegetation gives the name ‘Vana Durge’ to the presiding deity.

Description :

The temple is majestically situated above the top of the hill, which can be reached by the 257 well laid steps. There is a road on the western side of the hill, which also makes it convenient for the movement of the vehicles to the top of the hill. The best time of the day to visit this hill temple is the evening in case you are wanting to relish the beautiful sunset in a pious surrounding. Otherwise anytime of the day is suitable to prostrate in front of Goddess Shakti.

Standing amidst lush green hilly surroundings, the sanctity or ‘Saanidhya’ of the temple will surely keep devotees engulfed in utmost devotion. Earlier, one could find tigers also in the forest of this hill but now only peacocks, fox and monkeys can be found. The greenery and the view from the hill which is at a height of about 100 feet is breathtaking. The idol of the deity is placed at a height of about three feet inside the temple and the speciality of this place is that one can have darshan of Durga from outside itself. To the west of Kunjarugiri, there is another smaller hillock. And there is a temple of Parashurama in a Cave. To the east (at the feet of Durgabetta) there is Pajaka- the birth place of Trailokyaguru Shri Madhwacharya where the great Acharya spent his early childhood days.

The Idol :

The magnificent idol of Shree Durga is a Chaturbhuja (four-armed) image. It stands holding the Shanka (conch) and Chakra (discus) in the upper hands and Dhanus (bow) and Trishula (trident) in the lower hands.

She stands stamping demon Mahishasura under her feet. Apart from this temple, one can also visit the holy Theerthas, Lord Parashurama temple and Paajaka Kshethra, where Jagadguru Sri Madhwacharya took his avatara.

Theerthas :

To the east of Durgabetta there is Bana Theertha (arrow shaped sacred pool created by Lord Parashurama) and the Gada Theertha (mace shaped sacred pool created by Lord Parashurama) is to the west of the hill. These are the two Theerthas among the four theerthas created by Parashurama on the rocky terrain. The water of these Theerthas never dry up even during the hottest days of summer!

The four sacred Theerthas around the region, and the cave – all created by Lord Parashurama confirms the association of Lord Parashurama with this region.

Festivals :

Sharannavaratri is an important festival celebrated here. Navadurga Kalpoktha Puja is performed during the days of Navaraatri. The Kannika Puja, a speciality of the Durga Temple, is offered in a grand scale. Kannika Puja is offered by the devotees as an important Seva at the temple. Many people visit this temple during Navaraatri and offer their prayer at the feet of the Goddess.


The Rathotsavam (Annual Car festival / Chariot festival) is held in a grand scale with devotion. The rituals during the Uthsava are very elaborate and have their own special features. The Dhwajaarohanam is performed on the Maagha Shuddha Trayodashi day. The Rathotsavam is celebrated on Maagha Shuddha Poornima day. Feasting (Maha – Annasantharpane) is held on this day and thousands of devotees participate in it to take Prasadam. Many people also gather near the Shrine to witness the spectacular Rathotsavam on that night.

The annual ritual of ‘Rashi Puja’ is performed during the Amavasya (New moon day) following the Rathothsava. Many devotees participate in this ritual and offer their prayers to the Goddess.

On the eve of Sowramana Yugadi ‘Kani’ is kept here and ‘Panchangashravana’ is done on the Sowramana Yugadi day in the morning. Ganapathi Homa is performed during the Ganesha chaturthi and the Krishnaashtami is specially celebrated by offering special pujas to mark the occasion.

Dhanur Puja is offered during the Dhanurmasa and Paschimajagara Puja is offered in the month of Karthika. Both Pujas are offered at the dawn during the respective months. Apart from the above festivals and rituals Rugupakarma is also observed here.


Websites :

http://www.deccanherald.com/content/227981/serenity-divinity-atop-hill.html

http://payaniga.com/2008/07/around-udupi-kunjarugiri-pajaka.html

http://kunjarugiri.in/

Karighatta temple

Name : Karighatta Temple

Location :

Karighatta is a hill situated a few kilometres outside the 'island' town of Srirangapatna. It is situated off the Bangalore-Mysore road just before Srirangapatna in Karnataka.



Legend :

It is referred in Varaha Purana as ‘Neelachala’, a Sanskrit word, which means 'Blue Mountain.'. It is believed that performing some aesthetic poojas (worship) at this temple could bring a lot of relief to the sufferings one may have gone through in life.

It is said that the hill got its name after a wild elephant, Kari attacked and killed four girls taking bath. To bring them back to life Sage Kutsamuni undertook a rigorous penance and requested the Lord to save His devotees.

Another legend has it that during the building of the bridge to Lanka to bring back Sita, Sugreeva brought this hillock, also called ‘Neelachala’ from Tirumala (Thirupathi). On his way several Vishnubhakhtas (disciples of Lord Vishnu) pleaded with him to leave it here and so the hill remained here.

In "Varaha Purana" it is said that when Lord Vishnu took the incarnation of Varaha and shook his body some of the body hair fell on the ground near here the grass now seen here is believed to have come from his hair. Even now at the temple premises, there are sharp grasses, Eragrostis cynosuroides locally known as Dharbe hullu(grass) in Kannada, which is used for performing all sacred rites.

Description :

“Kari” in Kannada means black and “Ghatta” means hill. The hill has a Hindu temple devoted to a form of Hindu god Vishnu, called "Karigirivasa". This deity is also referred to , "Lord Vaikunta Srinivasa" or “Lord Srinivasa”, also named “Bairagi Venkataramana”. The epithet ‘Bairagi’ for this idol is derived due the fact that when ‘alankara’ (flower decoration) is done to the deity, the deity looks like a Bairagi (mendicant). The hill stands at a height of 2697 feet above sea level. It supports dry scrub jungle and many tamarind and gooseberry trees are found around the temple. A small river, Lokapavani, a tributary of Kaveri flows by the hill.



The main entrance to the temple, with huge wooden doors opens into a large quadrangle, which is the main shrine for Vaikunta Srinivasa in black stone, flanked by Yoga Srinivasa (without his consort) and Bhoga Srinivasa idols. The temple of Goddess Padmavathi is on the western side. Facing the main temple is a statue of Garuda and a Garudastamba.There is also a Kalyanamantapa (marriage hall) which is used for performing marriages and other functions. It is believed that the great sage Bhrigu has done the Prathishthapana (installation ceremony) of the deity.

The hill may be climbed by stone steps (450 in number). A winding paved road may also be used. The stone steps lead to a flat land where the temple stands. The hillock has a view of Srirangapatna and Mysore. The beautiful landscape around the hill and the confluence of Kaveri and Lokapavani rivers can be seen from atop the hill.

A stone Vishnu Pada/footprint of the lord is present behind the temple.



The famous Nimishamba (the incarnation of Parvathi, the goddess wife of Lord Shiva) temple is on the opposite bank of the Lokapavani river.It is a belief that Parvathi will clear all the problems and troubles of her devotees within a minute (nimisha in Sanskrit).

It was on this hill that the British had placed their cannons during the siege of Srirangapatnam.

Festivals :

The traditional car festival held every year is believed to have been initiated by sage Vaikhanasa as early as the Treta Yuga. This practice is being continued and annual fair takes place during Kumbha Masa Palguna (February-March), when a large number of pilgrims attend.

Websites :

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karighatta_temple

http://www.itslife.in/2008/12/karighatta

Devarayanadurga BhogaNarasimha temple and Yoga Narasimha temple

Name : Devarayanadurga BhogaNarasimha temple and Yoga Narasimha temple

Location :

It is 65 km from Bangalore, Karnataka India, by road on Tumkur road. The nearest railway station is 25 km away in Dabbaspet.

Description :

Devarayanadurga is a hill station near Tumkur. The rocky hills are surrounded by forest and the hilltops are dotted with several temples including the Yoganarasimha and the Bhoganarasimha temples and an altitude of 3940 feet. It is also famous for Namada Chilume, a natural spring considered sacred and is also considered the origin of the Jayamangali river. Another famous temple in the area is the Mahalakshmi Temple at Goravanahalli.

Legend :

Under the Hoysalas, there seems to have been, on the hill, a town called Anebiddasari or the precipice where the elephant fell. A rogue elephant, which the sthala purana describes as a Gandharva suddenly appeared before the town to the great consternation of the people and after doing considerable mischief, tried to walk up the steep rock on the west, when it slipped, fell back and was killed. The hill is accordingly called as Karigiri in the Puranas.

Under the Vijayanagara Kings, the use of the same name continued, and a large tank, named Bukkasamudra, was formed after throwing an embankment across the gorge from which the river Jayamangali has its source. Remains of the embankment and of the adjacent town can still be traced.

Temples :

BhogaNaraishma temple is at the base of the hill and Yoga Narasimha temple is on top of the hill. The vehicles can go a good 2Kms through the zig zag road towards the top. But to reach the temple one has to climb a good few hundred steps. Here again we can have a quick look at the temple, the temple is good and we had a good time there.



On the third elevation stands, facing east, a temple of Narasimha, known as the Kumbhi. This Narasimha temple consists of a Garbhagriha, a sukanasi, a navagraha and a mukhamantapa and is similar to the plan of the temple below. In addition to the temple there are three sacred ponds or Kalyani here known as Narasimha-teertha, Parasara-teertha and Pada-teertha.

There is also another temple, said to be older than Lakshmi Narasimha swamy, dedicated to Hanuman, also known as Sanjivaraya, who stands with folded hands.

Higher up above is a small shrine of Garuda.

Giri-Pradakshina :

Legend has it that the devotees of Hindu temples used to perform the ritual of circling the hills on which the temples were situated. As an effort to revive the practice, a large number of Devotees perform the Giri-pradakshina

Festivals :

Car Festival: Devarayana Durga Sri Bhoga Narasimhaswamy jathra/Car festival, an annual Car festival is held during Phalguna Masa shuddha poornima day some where in the Month of March/April in Devarayanadurga. On this day the chariot/car/Ratha of Sri Bhoga Narasimhaswamy is drawn in the main Ratha beedhi of the hill town. The festival draws devotees from all over Bangalore-Tumkur and surrounding region.

Narasimha Jayanthi: Devarayanadurga Sri Lakshminarasimhaswamy's Narasimha jayanthi, an annual celebration of Narasimha avathara day takes place during Chaitra Shudha chathurdashi (May month) at which thousands of people gather and many pendals are built to serve then with summer drinks like Panakam, buttermilk, phalamruth and free feeding is done to all devotees coming for the darshan of lord.

Namada Chilume :

At the base of the hill on the road leading to Tumkur, is a place called Namada Chilume (chilume means spring). Myth has it that Sri Rama on his way to Lanka halted here. As he did not find water anywhere around to wet the "Nama" (a kind of paste Hindus apply on their forehead), he shot an arrow into the ground, and a spring sprang and thus the name (Rama)-Namada chilume. The spring can be still seen, and there is a foot impression of Lord Sri Rama near that.

Websites :

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devarayanadurga

http://nithinkamath.info/archives/2008/01/devarayana-durga-trip/

Prasanna Veeranjaneya Temple

Name : Prasanna Veeranjaneya Temple

Location : The Prasanna Veeranjaneya Swamy Temple, atop a hillock in Mahalakshmi Layout in the Bangalore city.

Description :

This temple won the cleanliness award for "The Best-Maintained Temple" in 1999. In addition to its 22-foot deity Prasanna Veeranjaneya, carved out of a single monolithic rock, the temple is well known for its free medical services. The temple occupies 13 acres of land.

History :

During the rule of Mysore Maharaja Mahalakshmipura was a nice place for shooting practice. There was an graceful huge rock upright on the top of a small hill. It was a wonderful view to see the rock from the distance. When the BDA (Bangalore Development Authority) were developing new layouts in Bangalore, Mahalakshmipura was renamed Mahalakshmi Layout.

The rock on the top of the hill was 22 feet high and 16 feet in breadth and 4 feet wide. Local residents of Mahalakshmi Layout made a majestic painting of Lord Anjaneya on the rock and the Lord Anjaneya was named as Sree Prasanna Veeranjaneya Swamy. In the year 1973 on the occasion of Ramanavami the first pooja was performed. 

Later a committee was formed and the committee decided to have a statue of the deity of Sri Prasanna Veeranjaneya Swamy in the place of the painting. Sri Shanmugananda Stapati was the person who completed the carving of the idol ( S.Shanmugananda Sthapathi during 1974 ). This vast idol is 22 feet tall black stone.

Until the 1960s, the hillock 22-foot deity, Prasanna Veeranjaneya and surrounding area was barren. In 1968, people began to be occupy the area. In 1973, the people in the area began worshipping the rock and painted an image of Anjaneya flying with the Sanjeevini Hill. Later, the same painting was sculpted into an idol of Anjaneya in 1975 by a sculptor, Shanmugananda. Since then, people have worshipped the idol with deep reverence.

On June 7th 1976, the idol was installed with traditional ceremony, with former chief minister, Kengal Hanumanthaiah, the then Congress general secretary P V Narasimha Rao and others in attendance. A 15-member trust currently manages the temple.

Dhyanamandira silent zone for peace lovers within the temple is the Meditation Hall or Dhyanamandira. Lovely greenery surrounding the hall adds to the ambience. Colourful idols of Lord Srirama and his beloved devotee Hanuman attract the attention of devotees sitting in silence. It is believed that disturbed minds are consoled here.



The Philanthrophic activities of Prasannaveeranjaneya Temple :

Hospital at the TempleThe Veeranjaneya Swamy Temple is well known for its free medical services. The temple's hospital has treated eye patients and conducted 730 cataract operations, while more than 616 patients have been treated for teeth problems in its dental clinic. "For a nominal fee of Rs 5, our dental clinic performs treatments like removing aching tooth, filling cement (to decayed teeth), and other dental treatments," says the temple trust founder secretary, Mr Krishnamurthy Rao, who has been associated with the temple since its inception 28 years ago. The dental clinic does not insist on the nominal fees for dental treatment if the patient is too poor to pay, says Mr Rao.



The temple hospital receives unused medicines from convalesced patients around the city area and prescribes them to its patients. Convalesced patients are happy to donate their unused medicines to the Temple. The doctors here take care while prescribing medicines to their patients. The temple hospital has a Medical Storephysiotherapist, pediatrician, dentist, and general physician in addition to the specialists visiting three to four times in a week. Every day, the hospital works from 9 am to 1.30 pm. The dental clinic is open on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. The hospital also has a Homeopathic Clinic and a medical store. An 18-bed hall, which was opened in June 1996, is used once a month for eye cataract operations. The temple provides food to patients and their caretakers at the monthly three-day cataract operation camp.

The temple is encouraging local musicians and dancers by holding their concerts in the temple every Saturday evening from 6-8 pm. Budding artistes can register with the temple on Saturdays. The temple honors artistes by giving an honorarium of Rs 1,000 per concert. The local Mahila Samaja conducts bhajans (devotional prayers) on Sunday mornings at the temple.

Festivals :

Benne Alankara (decoration with butter) of the deity Anjaneya at Prasanna Veeranjaneya Temple is done every year in the month of August. For the Benne Alankara, 420 kilograms of butter is used. About 18,000 devotees contribute the butter required for this ritual. The day after the ritual, the butter is removed and distributed to the devotees as prasada. On Hanumat-jayanthi day the temple distributes fruits to about 5,000 monkeys in and around Bangalore.

The temple's anniversary is celebrated in June. Srirama Kalyanotsava and Samoohika Lakshmi Puja rituals are held as part of the anniversary celebrations. Anyone can participate in the rituals of the temple, irrespective of caste, creed and religion, says the temple's founder secretary, Mr Krishnamurthy Rao.

Website : http://www.bangalorebest.com/discoverbangalore/sightseeing/religion/temples/veeranjneya.asp

Veerabhadreshwara Temple

Name : Veerabhadreshwara Temple

Location :

This is an ancient cave temple situated in the lovely picnic spot of Kalhatti falls. This temple is near Kalhattipura which is 20 km south of Tarikere in Chikmagalur District and about 10 km from Kemmannagundi. Tarikere Junction Railway Station is the nearest railhead.

Description :

This temple i am not sure if it is Hill temple, but it is constructed in a gap between rocks, this temple is said to have been built during the Vijaynagara period. The main deity is Lord Veerabhadreshwara, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The entrance of the temple is decorated with three stone carvings of three elephants. According to legends, this place has once hosted the hermitages of Sage Agastya.

The temple conducts its festival for three days every year. No animal sacrifice is made at this temple, but animal sacrifice occurs at the goddess temple a few yards before the Shiva temple.

Other Attractions :

Goddess Chowdeshwari Temple and the Kalhatti falls, situated amidst the natural surroundings, attract both tourists and pilgrims.

Website :

http://www.india9.com/i9show/Veerabhadreshwara-Temple-63045.htm