Nanjangud Srikanteshwara Temple
The Srikanteshwara Temple in Nanjangud is one of the most ancient and sacred pilgrimage sites in Karnataka. Located on the banks of the river Kapila (also known as Kabini), it is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshipped here as Srikanteshwara (the one who has a poison-stained throat). The temple is famous for its massive scale and is often referred to as "Dakshina Kashi" or the Kashi of the South. The history of the temple dates back to the Ganga dynasty, with significant contributions from the Chola, Hoysala, and Vijayanagara empires. However, much of its current grandeur is credited to the Wadiyar kings of Mysore, particularly Mummadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar. The temple complex is enormous, making it one of the largest in the state. One of the unique aspects of this temple is its connection to Tipu Sultan; it is said that his favorite elephant was cured of an eye ailment by the grace of the Lord, after which he gifted a "Maragatha Linga" and a necklace to the temple. The town of Nanjangud itself is holy, and devotees often take a dip in the Kapila river before entering the temple. The temple is a hub of Vedic learning and traditional rituals. The main deity, the Shiva Linga, is believed to be self-manifested (Swayambhu). There are also shrines for Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Vishnu within the complex. The annual chariot festival, known as the Dodda Jathre, attracts lakhs of devotees from all over the country. The temple represents a perfect blend of spiritual energy and architectural brilliance, standing as a testament to the religious tolerance and patronage of various South Indian dynasties. For visitors, the temple offers a peaceful atmosphere and a chance to witness traditional Hindu rituals in a grand setting.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 HoursPlace Type:
Religious / Hindu TempleEntry Fees:
General Entry: Entry to the temple is free for all visitors.
Special Darshan: There are paid tickets for "Special Entry" or "Seeghra Darshan" ranging from Rs.50 to Rs.200 to skip long queues.
Pooja Charges: Spe...General Entry: Entry to the temple is free for all visitors.
Special Darshan: There are paid tickets for "Special Entry" or "Seeghra Darshan" ranging from Rs.50 to Rs.200 to skip long queues.
Pooja Charges: Specific sevas (rituals) like Abhisheka or Archana have fixed prices determined by the temple trust.Timing:
Regular Timings: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM.
Sundays and Holidays: The temple may remain open throughout the day or for extended hours due to high crowds.
Ideal Visit Time: Ea...Regular Timings: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM.
Sundays and Holidays: The temple may remain open throughout the day or for extended hours due to high crowds.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning at 6:00 AM to avoid the heat and the afternoon rush.Special Events:
Dodda Jathre: Held in March/April, this is the grand car festival where five chariots are pulled through the streets of the town.
Mahashivaratri: The most important festival for Lord Shiva, celebrated with overnight prayers, music, and spec...Dodda Jathre: Held in March/April, this is the grand car festival where five chariots are pulled through the streets of the town.
Mahashivaratri: The most important festival for Lord Shiva, celebrated with overnight prayers, music, and special rituals in February.
Girija Kalyana: The celestial wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati is celebrated with great pomp and show.Best Photo Spots:
The Main Rajagopuram: The towering entrance gate looks magnificent when shot from the main road leading to the temple.
River Kapila Bank: A wide-angle shot of the temple reflected in the river water during sunrise or sunset is breathtaking....The Main Rajagopuram: The towering entrance gate looks magnificent when shot from the main road leading to the temple.
River Kapila Bank: A wide-angle shot of the temple reflected in the river water during sunrise or sunset is breathtaking.
The Stone Nandi: The large monolithic Nandi (bull) statue at the entrance is a classic subject for temple photography.
Temple Street: The bustling market street with the gopuram in the distance offers a vibrant cultural shot.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Seek Blessings: Join the queue for a darshan of Lord Srikanteshwara and participate in the morning or evening aarti.
Holy Dip: Take a traditional ritual bath in the Kapila River at the designated bathing ghats near the temple.
Admire the Sculptures: Spend time looking at the thousands of carvings on the Rajagopuram and the pillars inside the hall.
Perform Tulabhara: Devotees can offer their weight in various items like jaggery, rice, or coconuts as a form of thanksgiving.
Prasadam: Taste the temple's "Ladoo" or "Puliyogare" prasadam, which is famous for its unique traditional flavor.
Visit Sub-shrines: Explore the shrines of Goddess Parvathi, Narayana, and the various forms of Shiva within the c...
Information
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Why Famous:
Healing Powers: The deity is known as "Vaidya Nanjundeswara," the doctor who heals the ailments of his devotees.
Dakshina Kashi: It is considered as holy as the Varanasi (Kashi) temple, making it a major spiritual center in South India.Healing Powers: The deity is known as "Vaidya Nanjundeswara," the doctor who heals the ailments of his devotees.
Dakshina Kashi: It is considered as holy as the Varanasi (Kashi) temple, making it a major spiritual center in South India.
Tipu Sultan's Link: The historical story of Tipu Sultan's elephant being cured adds a unique layer of local legend to the temple. -
Architecture:
Dravidian Splendor: The temple is built in the classic Dravidian style, featuring a massive seven-tier Rajagopuram (entrance tower) adorned with intricate sculptures of deities.
Dimensions: The temple complex measures approximately 385 feet...Dravidian Splendor: The temple is built in the classic Dravidian style, featuring a massive seven-tier Rajagopuram (entrance tower) adorned with intricate sculptures of deities.
Dimensions: The temple complex measures approximately 385 feet in length and 160 feet in width, supported by 147 massive pillars.
The Gopuram: The main gateway tower is about 120 feet high and is decorated with numerous stucco figures depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.
Prakara: The temple has a vast outer courtyard (prakara) and several smaller shrines that showcase the evolving styles of different ruling dynasties. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Mysore Airport is just 15 KM away; Bangalore Airport is 185 KM away.
By Train: Nanjangud Town Railway Station is 1 KM from the temple, with frequent trains from Mysore.
By Road: It is located on th... -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta (50 KM), 2. Mysore Palace (23 KM), 3. Kabini Dam (35 KM), 4. Bandipur National Park (50 KM), 5. Chamundi Hills (25 KM), 6. Gundlupet (35 KM), 7. Somanathapura Temple (50 KM), 8. T. Narasipura (30 KM), 9. Talakadu (45 KM), 10. Mysore Zoo (22 KM).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: The river ghats can be slippery; be careful while bathing. Respect the local customs and dress modestly.
Packing: Carry a set of traditional clothes (Dhoti/Saree) if you plan to perform special rituals. Bring a bag for s...
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