10 Must Visit Temples In Karnataka

Karnataka is undeniably a cornerstone of India’s ancient culture and heritage. The state is adorned with some of the country’s most iconic and historic temples, each offering a glimpse into its diverse spiritual traditions. From the intricate carvings of Hoysala craftsmanship to the serene aura of Chalukyan shrines, Karnataka’s temples are not just places of worship but also masterpieces of architecture and artistry. Many of them are set in breathtaking surroundings—misty hills, tranquil riverbanks, or bustling towns—making them both spiritual havens and cultural landmarks.

In this blog, we bring you a handpicked list of the Top 10 Temples in Karnataka, narrowing down from the state’s vast treasure trove of revered shrines. Each temple tells an eternal story where art, devotion, and architecture harmoniously blend into one.

# Virupaksha Temple, Hampi

Part of the once-mighty Vijayanagara Empire, Virupaksha Temple is among the most prominent Hindu temples in Karnataka and one of the few surviving “living temples” of its era. The Vijayanagara rulers, counted among the wealthiest dynasties in history, left behind a legacy of stunning architecture and murals here. The temple is surrounded by fascinating remnants such as the Hampi Bazaar and the famed archaeological ruins.

A must-visit pilgrimage site, Virupaksha enchants with rare marvels like the three-headed Nandi idol, believed to be one of its kind in the world. Another wonder is its gopuram, which projects an inverted shadow in the courtyard through a pinhole opening—a natural camera obscura effect. The temple ceilings are adorned with murals that, despite some damage, still retain their grandeur. Originally built in the 7th century, the temple saw major additions in the 14th and 16th centuries, resulting in the extraordinary detailing that stuns visitors to this day.

# Chennakesava Temple, Belur

Step into the 12th-century Chennakesava Temple at Belur, and you are immediately greeted by a sacred stepwell adorned with lifelike elephant carvings. Commissioned by King Vishnuvardhana in 1117 CE, this architectural jewel took 103 years to complete. Standing resiliently on the banks of the Yagachi River, the temple survived invasions and was later restored by the Vijayanagara kings.

The outer walls narrate epic tales from the Mahabharata and Ramayana, while symbolic carvings of elephants and lions stand for strength and courage. Inside, the shrines are embellished with breathtaking depictions of Lord Vishnu in various forms—Nataraja, Ananta Padmanabha, and more—carved with such realism that they seem almost alive. The temple ceilings, too, are masterpieces in themselves. Photography inside is prohibited, allowing visitors to absorb the artistry with undistracted eyes—a rare, intimate experience with this Hoysala wonder.

# Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu

The 900-year-old Hoysaleswara Temple at Halebidu emerges like a stone chronicle of the past. Built in the 12th century, this shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva epitomizes Hoysala architecture at its finest. Its construction, spanning three decades, left behind a monument that continues to awe with its scale and intricacy.

The outer walls are alive with carvings—majestic elephants, mythical creatures, and elaborate panels retelling the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Inside, a polished black granite Nandi bull watches over the sanctum, while the stellar-shaped ceiling and zigzag walls create ever-shifting patterns of light and shadow. The Mandapa’s ornate ceilings and delicately carved deities—from Surya to Ravana with a thousand heads—testify to the unmatched skill of its artisans. Just 16 km from Belur, Halebidu is also known for its soapstone craft, where local artisans continue the ancient tradition.

# Sri Sharadamba Temple, Sringeri

Located in Sringeri, the Sri Sharadamba Temple is one of Karnataka’s most sacred pilgrimage sites. Founded by Adi Shankaracharya, it is the first of the four Advaita Peethas established by the philosopher. Dedicated to Goddess Sharadamba, the deity of wisdom, learning, and arts, the shrine houses a striking golden idol of the goddess.

Originally, Adi Shankara placed a sandalwood idol of Sharada here, later replaced with the golden icon we see today. The current stone structure, dating back to 1916, follows the Tamil Shilpa Shastra style, with ornate pillars carved with deities. The temple has grown in prominence with additions like golden doors featuring Ashta Lakshmi figurines and a golden chariot. The shrine comes alive during Vijaya Dashami, when parents gather to perform the “Aksharabhyasa” ritual, seeking blessings for their children’s education.

# Chamundeshwari Temple, Mysuru

Towering over Mysuru at 3,489 feet, the Chamundeshwari Temple atop Chamundi Hills is both a spiritual beacon and an architectural marvel. Dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, a fierce form of Parvati, the temple is steeped in mythology.

The eight-armed idol of the goddess, seated on a lion, radiates divine power, while imposing statues of Mahishasura and the Nandi bull add to the aura. Originally built by the Hoysalas and later embellished by the Vijayanagara rulers, the temple’s seven-tiered gopuram is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. A major highlight is the Navratri festival, when thousands of devotees gather to celebrate the goddess. Visitors can either trek the 1,008 steps or take a short drive up, both offering panoramic views of Mysuru.

# Murudeshwar Temple, Murudeshwar

Famed across India, the Murudeshwar Temple in coastal Karnataka is a visual spectacle. Nestled atop the Kanduka Hill and surrounded on three sides by the Arabian Sea, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Mridesa Linga.

The temple’s crowning glory is its 37-metre-tall Shiva statue, the second tallest in the world, alongside a 20-story Raj Gopuram completed in 2008. Visitors can take an elevator to the top for sweeping views of the town and the sea. The temple’s history is linked to Chalukya and Kadamba artistry, yet its modern grandeur is equally impressive. Evening views of the illuminated Shiva statue and Gopuram are especially mesmerizing. Beyond being a pilgrimage hub, Murudeshwar is also a beloved seaside getaway.

# Dharmasthala Manjunatha Temple, Dharmasthala

On the banks of the Nethravathi River lies the Dharmasthala Manjunatha Temple, a unique blend of faiths. Here, Lord Manjunatha (a form of Shiva) is worshipped by Vaishnava priests, while the temple itself is managed by a Jain family.

This 16th-century shrine draws devotees from all religions, making it a symbol of harmony. The temple is especially known for its Deepotsava festival, when thousands of oil lamps illuminate the complex, creating a divine spectacle. Architecturally, its sloping roofs, wooden pillars, and three-story entryway reflect the Sapta-Konkana style. Adding to its uniqueness is the Dharmadhikari, or “Chair of Justice,” a centuries-old tradition that continues to this day.

# Kukke Subramanya Temple, Subramanya

Tucked away in the lush Western Ghats, the Kukke Subramanya Temple is dedicated to Lord Subramanya (Kartikeya), the serpent god and son of Shiva and Parvati. Known for its association with serpent worship, the temple is believed to be more than 5,000 years old.

Rituals like Sarpa Samskara and Ashlesha Bali draw devotees seeking relief from serpent-related doshas. The sanctum features a striking idol of Subramanya sheltered by a five-headed cobra, while the silver-plated Garuda Sthamba in the courtyard adds to its splendour. Famous personalities, from saints to celebrities, have paid homage here, adding to the temple’s renown.

# Udupi Sri Krishna Matha, Udupi

Nestled between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, Udupi Sri Krishna Matha is revered as the “Second Mathura.” Founded by Madhvacharya in the 13th century, it houses the idol of Lord Krishna, believed to have been installed by Arjuna.

The temple’s most unique feature is the Kanakadasa story—when a devoted saint denied entry continued to worship through a wall, and the idol of Krishna miraculously turned to face him. Today, devotees offer prayers through the Navagraha window, commemorating this miracle. The biennial Paryaya Utsava is another highlight, marked by colourful rituals as temple management rotates among eight Mathas. The spiritual energy of Udupi extends to nearby temples like Chandramoulishwar and Ananteshwar, making it a holistic pilgrimage destination.

# Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple, Bengaluru

In the heart of Bengaluru lies the Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple, a remarkable rock-cut shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Dating back to the 9th century and associated with the Cholas, this cave temple is an architectural and astronomical wonder.

The sanctum houses rare deities, including Agni with three legs and two heads, and Shakti Ganapati with twelve arms. Four monolithic pillars symbolize Shiva’s attributes, while a stone idol of Nandi sits outside. The temple’s most fascinating phenomenon occurs during Makar Sankranti, when the setting sun’s rays pass precisely through Nandi’s horns to illuminate the Shiva Linga—a breathtaking alignment of architecture and astronomy.