Shri Kotilingeshwara Swamy Temple — Attraction in Karnataka

That sounds like an incredible experience! The Kotilingeshwara Temple is truly a remarkable place. You've perfectly captured the essence of its grandeur and spiritual significance. Here's a breakdown of why your observations are so accurate and some additional context:

The Sheer Scale: The sheer number of Shiva Lingas (1 crore or 10 million) is what makes this temple truly unique. It's a testament to the dedication and devotion of the people who built it.

This massive scale creates a powerful visual impact and a unique spiritual atmosphere. Architectural Grandeur: You're right to highlight the intricate carvings and sculptures. South Indian temples are renowned for their detailed architecture, and Kotilingeshwara is no exception. The large Nandi statue is also one of the grand features of this temple. Spiritual Significance: The peaceful and serene atmosphere is conducive to meditation and introspection. The sheer number of Lingas creates a palpable sense of spiritual energy. The temple is a very important place of worship for devotees of Lord Shiva. Practical Advice: Your advice about visiting in the early morning or evening is spot-on. The weather in Kolar can be quite warm, so visiting during cooler hours is advisable. Comfortable footwear is essential, as there's a lot of walking involved. Respecting the temple's rules and traditions is crucial for a meaningful and respectful visit. Additional points of interest: The temple complex also houses other deities, adding to its spiritual richness. The tall Shiva linga is also a very impressive site. The surrounding area of Kolar also has other temples that can be visited. It's wonderful that you had such a positive experience.

FAQs on Kotilingeshwara Temple

What is special about Kotilingeshwara Temple? Kotilingeshwara Temple is renowned for having the largest and tallest Shivalinga in Asia, measuring 33 meters (108 feet) in height, along with a massive Nandi idol (11 meters or 35 feet tall). The temple is famous for housing over 90 lakh Shivalingas spread across 15 acres.

Where is Kotilingeshwara Temple located? The temple is located in Kammasandra village, Kolar district, Karnataka, India. It is easily accessible from Bengaluru, which is approximately 100 km away.

Who built the Kotilingeshwara Temple? The temple was founded and constructed in 1980 by Swami Sambha Shiva Murthy, with the vision of installing one crore (10 million) Shivalingas.

Can devotees install their own Shivalinga in the temple? Yes, devotees can donate and install Shivalingas of different sizes, with their names engraved on them as a part of their devotion.

What is the significance of the name 'Kotilingeshwara'? The name 'Kotilingeshwara' is derived from Kannada, where 'Koti' means a crore (10 million) and 'Lingeshwara' refers to Lord Shiva. The temple aims to house one crore Shivalingas, symbolizing devotion to Lord Shiva.

What are the major festivals celebrated at Kotilingeshwara Temple? The temple witnesses a grand celebration during Maha Shivaratri, attracting millions of devotees. Other Hindu festivals such as Karthika Purnima, Navratri, and Deepavali are also celebrated with great enthusiasm.

What are the other attractions within the temple premises? Apart from the main Shivalinga and Nandi statue, the temple has 11 smaller shrines dedicated to various deities, including Lord Vishnu, Lord Brahma, Goddess Annapoorneshwari, Lord Rama, Lord Anjaneya, and Lord Ganesha. There is also a meditation hall, marriage hall, exhibition center, and a guest house for visitors.

What are the temple timings and entry fees? Timings:6:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Open all days) Entry Fee: ₹20 per person Special Poojas and Offerings: Different charges apply based on the...

Introduction: Nestled in the serene town of Kammasandra, Bangalore, the Kotilingeshwara Temple stands tall as a testament to devotion and spirituality. This magnificent temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, holds a special place in the hearts of devotees and visitors alike. Join me on a virtual journey as we explore the rich history, architectural marvels, and religious significance of the Kotilingeshwara Temple.

Awe-Inspiring Architecture: The Kotilingeshwara Temple is renowned for its awe-inspiring architecture that blends traditional Dravidian style with modern elements. As you approach the temple complex, you'll be greeted by a massive 108-feet-tall Shiva lingam, believed to be the largest in the world. The intricate carvings, ornate pillars, and beautifully sculpted idols adorn the temple premises, captivating visitors with their divine beauty and craftsmanship.

Sacred Lingams: The temple complex is home to an astounding display of lingams, with over 1 crore (10 million) Shiva lingams worshipped here. These lingams, of various sizes and materials, symbolize the omnipresence of Lord Shiva. Walking amidst the lingams, visitors can feel a deep sense of spiritual energy and find solace in the divine ambiance that permeates the surroundings.

Religious Significance: Kotilingeshwara Temple holds immense religious significance for devotees. It is believed that worshipping at this temple with utmost devotion can bring blessings, fulfillment of desires, and liberation from worldly troubles. Devotees flock to the temple during auspicious occasions and festivals, such as Maha Shivaratri, to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and participate in sacred rituals and ceremonies.

Spiritual Atmosphere: Visiting the Kotilingeshwara Temple offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The serene surroundings, chanting of prayers, and the gentle aroma of incense create a spiritual atmosphere that invites visitors to immerse themselves in introspection and prayer. The temple complex also provides meditation halls and peaceful corners for those seeking moments of solitude and inner reflection.

Festivals and Celebrations: The temple comes alive during various festivals and celebrations throughout the year. Maha Shivaratri, in particular, witnesses grand festivities, attracting thousands of devotees from far and wide. Elaborate processions, cultural performances, and religious rituals form an integral part of these celebrations, allowing visitors to witness the vibrant traditions and customs associated with Lord Shiva's worship.

Conclusion: The Kotilingeshwara Temple in Bangalore is a sanctuary of faith, spirituality, and architectural magnificence. Its towering Shiva lingam, the vast array of lingams, and the divine aura that permeates the temple complex make it a must-visit for devotees and spiritual seekers. Whether you seek blessings, solace, or simply an opportunity to witness the grandeur of Indian temple architecture, a visit to the Kotilingeshwara Temple promises an enriching and...

Kotilingeshwara Temple, located in Kammasandra village, Kolar district, Karnataka, is a remarkable pilgrimage site known for its spiritual grandeur and architectural marvel. The temple is about 90 km from Bengaluru and can be reached by road in around three hours, making it a popular day trip for devotees and tourists alike.

The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is renowned for housing one of the largest Shiva lingams in the world, standing at 108 feet tall, with a massive Nandi statue facing it at 35 feet high. The complex is spread over 15 acres and is dotted with lakhs of smaller Shiva lingams, installed by devotees from all over India as acts of faith and devotion.

The inspiration for this temple and its legendary origins were brought to life in the acclaimed film Sri Manjunatha, which narrates the transformation of an atheist into a devout follower of Lord Shiva and the temple’s founding. This cinematic reference has added to the temple’s fame and spiritual allure among visitors.

The temple complex also features shrines for other deities, including Goddess Annapoorneshwari, Lord Ganesha, Lord Vishnu, Goddess Lakshmi, and more, making it a holistic spiritual destination for families and groups.

Facilities at Kotilingeshwara are well-developed, with amenities such as a guest house, marriage hall, meditation hall, exhibition center, and a large water tank for devotees to perform abhishekam (ritual bathing) to the lingam. There is also ample covered parking, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.

The temple is open daily from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., with an entry fee of Rs. 30. Weekdays offer a peaceful and serene atmosphere, while Mondays and festival days, especially Maha Shivratri, see large crowds. Free meals (Annadana) are served at midday, and mass marriages are conducted weekly, reflecting the temple’s commitment to community service.

Darshan is generally smooth, but on crowded days, some waiting may be required. The temple’s vibrant courtyards, colorful corridors, and the sheer scale of the lingams create a visually stunning and spiritually uplifting experience. The Nagalinga tree, believed to grant wishes, is another highlight, with devotees tying yellow threads for blessings.

Overall, Kotilingeshwara Temple offers a unique and memorable spiritual journey, blending devotion, community, and culture. Its prominent appearance in the Manjunatha movie, easy accessibility from Bangalore, excellent facilities, and the awe-inspiring sight of lakhs of lingams make it a must-visit for anyone interested in Karnataka’s...