6 Famous Temples You Must Visit In Mysore

Mysore, alternatively known as Mysuru, is situated in the southern state of Karnataka, India, and is renowned for being a favored destination among tourists and pilgrims. Its appeal lies in its abundant cultural heritage, splendid architecture, and historical significance. A significant factor contributing to Mysore's popularity as a temple destination is its profound association with Hinduism. The city boasts numerous temples with enduring historical significance, drawing devotees globally. These temples display remarkable craftsmanship and intricate designs that mirror the cultural and religious traditions of Mysore's inhabitants.

Mysore, also recognized as Mysuru, stands as a captivating city nestled in the southern state of Karnataka, India. This cultural gem has earned widespread acclaim among tourists and pilgrims alike, primarily owing to its rich heritage, captivating architecture, and historical eminence. Mysore holds a special allure for temple enthusiasts, rooted in its deep connection to Hinduism. Home to a plethora of enduring temples, the city beckons devotees from across the globe with its timeless charm and showcases a tapestry of exquisite craftsmanship and intricate designs, offering a profound glimpse into the cultural and religious tapestry of Mysore.

# Chamundeshwari Temple

Situated atop the picturesque Chamundi Hills in Mysore, Karnataka, India, the Chamundeshwari Temple stands as one of the city's most renowned religious landmarks. Devoted to the Hindu goddess Chamundeshwari, a manifestation of Goddess Durga, this temple draws thousands of pilgrims annually, making it one of the most frequented sacred sites in Mysore. The temple's allure lies not only in its religious significance but also in its captivating architecture and intricate designs, offering a glimpse into the cultural and religious practices of the Mysorean people.

Historically, the temple's origins trace back to the 12th century, credited to the Hoysala kings, with the present structure being erected in the 17th century under the patronage of the Wadiyar dynasty. The principal deity, Chamundeshwari, is worshipped through a resplendent idol adorned with jewels and flowers. Additionally, the temple houses revered figures such as Nandi, the sacred bull of Lord Shiva, and Mahishasura, the defeated demon by Chamundeshwari.

Perched at an elevation of approximately 1,000 feet above sea level, the temple provides a breathtaking panoramic view of Mysore. Surrounded by lush greenery, it serves as a serene and peaceful locale for meditation and prayer, inviting seekers of spiritual solace.

The Chamundeshwari Temple gains further prominence during its annual Navaratri festival, celebrated with fervor and enthusiasm. During this time, the temple is adorned with dazzling decorations and lights, attracting devotees from across the country who come to offer prayers and seek the goddess's blessings. With its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and spiritual significance, the Chamundeshwari Temple holds a significant place in Mysore's religious landscape, making it a compelling destination for those interested in delving into India's religious and cultural traditions.

# Somanathapura Temple

Somanathapura Temple is a famous 13th-century Hindu temple located in the state of Karnataka, India. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is one of the finest examples of Hoysala architecture. The temple is located in the town of Somanathapura, which is about 35 km from the city of Mysore. The temple was built in 1268 AD by the Hoysala Empire king Narasimha III. It is a three-chambered structure, with the main sanctum housing a beautiful image of Lord Vishnu in a standing posture. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures, which adorn the walls and pillars. The outer walls of the temple are decorated with friezes depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, including the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The inner walls feature intricate carvings of gods and goddesses, as well as scenes from daily life.

One of the best temples to visit in Mysore, it has a star-shaped platform, with sixteen points symbolizing the sixteen phases of the moon. The four entrances to the temple are also beautifully decorated with ornate carvings. Somanathapura Temple is considered to be one of the finest examples of Hoysala architecture and is a popular tourist destination in Karnataka. The temple has been well-preserved over the years and is a testament to the skill and artistry of the Hoysala Empire

# Pathaleshwara Temple

The Pathaleshwara Temple stands prominently among the revered temples in Mysore, offering seekers a profound spiritual journey. Located in the city of Hubli within the Indian state of Karnataka, this ancient Hindu temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, holding significant importance as a pilgrimage site in the region. Constructed during the 10th century AD by the Western Chalukya dynasty, the temple showcases a distinctive architectural blend, incorporating elements from both Chalukya and Hoysala styles.

Elevated on a platform, the temple features a front mandapa (hall) and a rear sanctum sanctorum (garbha griha). The mandapa boasts a pyramidal roof adorned with intricate carvings, illustrating scenes from Hindu mythology. Within the sanctum sanctorum resides a lingam, surrounded by smaller shrines dedicated to deities such as Ganesha, Parvati, and Kartikeya. The sanctum's walls are adorned with elaborate carvings and sculptures, reflecting the temple's rich artistic heritage.

Having undergone various renovations and restorations, with the most recent one in the early 2000s, the Pathaleshwara Temple is now under the care of the Archaeological Survey of India. It has become a prominent tourist attraction in Hubli, drawing visitors with its historical and spiritual significance. The temple experiences a surge in devotees, especially during the annual Maha Shivaratri festival, celebrated with grandeur and fervor.

# Trineswara Temple

Situated in the heart of Mysore, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its simple yet elegant architecture. Devotees visit to seek blessings and experience a sense of tranquility. Trinesvaraswamy Temple is one among the oldest sanctuaries in Mysore which has rich social, religious and verifiable importance. Trinesvaraswamy Temple is accepted to be over 450 years of age as it existed notwithstanding amid the rule of Raja Wodeyar (1578-1617).

The sanctuary, in its underlying days was situated outside the Mysore Fort or Mysore Palace, on the bank of the Devaraya Sagar or Doddakere, confronting the fortification. At the point when the Mysore Fort was broadened amid the rule of Kanthirava Narasaraja Wodeyar (1638-1659) and his successor Dodda Devaraja Wodeyar (1659-1672), Trinesvaraswamy Temple went in close vicinity to the Palace complex.

Worked in the conventional Dravidian style of sanctuary design, Trinesvaraswamy Temple has a fenced in area and a fundamental passageway. The principle entrance or the Mahadwara had a high sanctuary tower or Gopura which was decimated in the eighteenth century.

# Lakshmi Hayagriva Temple

Located on the Chamundi Hills, this temple is dedicated to Lord Hayagriva, a divine form of Lord Vishnu. It is revered for its spiritual ambiance and the breathtaking views it offers. Brahmatantra Swatantra Parakala Mutt (Math) is one of the sacred mutts for Srivaishnavas. Lord Sri Lakshmi Hayagreeva Swamy is the presiding deity of this shrine. The mutt was established by Sri Sri Sri Brahmatantra Swatantra Jiyar Swamy in the year 1378.

Brahmatantra Swatantra Parakala Mutt is headquartered in Mysore. It is said that the mutt has a strong connection with the Mysore Royal Family from 1399. Hence the mutt (matha) is built near to Mysore Palace.

Hayagreeva Swamy is worshipped as the god of knowledge and intelligence. Interestingly, some religious texts say that Goddess Saraswathi (Goddess of Knowledge) is said to worship Lord Hayagreeva Swamy. Hence, it is a custom in Srivaishnava tradition to visit Hayagreeva Swamy Temple before the kids are initiated into studies.

# Sri Nandi Temple

Positioned at the base of Chamundi Hills, this temple is dedicated to Nandi, the sacred bull of Lord Shiva. The colossal Nandi statue attracts devotees and tourists alike.Sri Nandi Temple in Mysore is the bliss to visit when you plan for the Mysore trip from your place. The temple is very near to the Chamundeshwari temple and is just half the distance to the temple there is a 5m tall idol of Nandi the sacred bull of Lord Shiva. The temple premises are very pleasant and a must worth a visit for the devotional tourists.

Huge sized granite stone Nandi very well caved and nicely placed on hill. Nandi is mount of Lord Shiva and one finds and one finds Nandi at all Shiva temples.It also called Nandidurg or Nandi Betta.

This is Big Mandi a top Chamundi Hills Mysore. Must visit if you are in Mysore. Nandi is not at top most location of the hill but a little down. Either you park in top and walk down through steps a little or on way up or down park your car and walk sideways to be here. We need to walk a maximum 5 minutes. There are lot of stalls on sideways selling cut fruits and sugarcane juice but try them if you are confident of your stomach. A little walk down the steps from Nandi you see a marvellous view of entire Mysore don't miss that. Its the best view one can get !!!

# Mahabaleshwar Temple

Situated in the heart of Mysore, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is known for its Dravidian architecture and the annual Rathotsava (chariot festival) celebrated with enthusiasm.At a distance of 13.5 Kms from Mysore Railway Station, Mahabaleshwara temple is situated on top of the Chamundi hills behind Chamundeswari Temple. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple was famous before the Chamundeshwari temple gained prominence.

Earlier the hill was called Mahabaladri or Mahabala Thirtha after the Lord of the temple. The temple records date back to 950 AD. The famous Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana is said to have expanded this temple. It is believed that the Hoysalas added the Ardha Mantapa and Nava Ranga. Both of them have structured pillars typical of the Hoysala temples.

Inside the temple there are attractive images of Sapta Matrikas, Nataraja, Parvathi and Bhairava, built in Hoysala's style. The image of Vishnu is from the Ganga period. There are statues of Mahishamardini, Dakshnia Murthy, Lord Indra and Bhikshatana Shiva which were made in Chola style.