Vitla Shri Panchalingeshwara Temple — Attraction in Karnataka

This beautiful temple has rare architectural beauty and magnificence. It consists of a three tiered roof and the shape is like that of a back of an elephant. The Hoysala style is clearly reflected in the temple architecture and the credit for sculpting this goes to none other than Ruvari Mallitamma. The Gopuras of the temple vary in their design, size and shape.

The Panchalingeshwara temple has been built directly without the pedestal and this is clearly visible. The temple was built in such a manner that it faces the East and care has been taken to ensure that every kuta faces the direction of the sun rising. The beautifully crafted Nandi is situated at the entrance. The Garbha Griha houses various gods and goddesses like Ganesha at the entrance, and Shiva, Parvati and Subramanya. You can see the beautifully carved Dashavatara along the wall and pillars of the temple once you start the “Pradakshina” the temple. The Hoysala temples are the only temples where you can come across the dancing Saraswath, which is definitely a rare sight.

The temple underwent some major renovation in the year 2007. The Garbhanyasa and the Nidhukumba were major areas of renovation wherein stones like kumudha, galapadi, jagathi and paduka were used.

The Vamadeva, Thatpurusha, Aghora, Sadyojatha and Ishana are the five lingas present in the temple. Lord Shiva is the embodiment of all these pancha (five) features. Historians have researched and found out that the credit of creating the temple goes to the Pandavas.

The Hegde dynasty worships the Panchalingeshwara and it is supposed to be the kuladeva (chief deity) of the Hegdes. The temple dates back to as early as 7-8 AD and it is presumed that it has undergone many levels of renovation, without making any major changes to the architectural heritage and beauty.

Shree Panchalingeshwara Temple – Religious Significance

There are a number of religious rituals that are conducted by the pujaris and every Barkurean worships the deity. The annual festival, Rathotsav, is celebrated with great pomp and splendor by both Hindus and Muslims.

The Okuliyata is yet another function that is performed on the next day of the Rathotsav and the function takes place very early in...

The Vittla Panchalingeshwara Temple, located in Vittla near Bantwal, Mangalore, is a significant Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva. This ancient temple is renowned for its unique representation of Lord Shiva in the form of five lingas (Panchalingeshwara), symbolizing the five aspects of the deity.

The main sanctum of the temple houses these five lingas, each representing a different manifestation of Lord Shiva. The lingas are worshipped with great reverence, and devotees believe that offering prayers here brings spiritual fulfillment and blessings.

The temple architecture reflects traditional South Indian style, adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting mythological themes. The serene surroundings, encompassing lush greenery and a peaceful ambiance, contribute to the spiritual atmosphere of the temple.

Vittla Panchalingeshwara Temple hosts various religious and cultural events, drawing devotees and visitors from the region. The Maha Shivaratri festival is celebrated with fervor, attracting a significant gathering for special rituals and festivities.

Devotees consider the Vittla Panchalingeshwara Temple as a sacred place for seeking divine intervention and experiencing the divine energy associated with Lord Shiva. The temple's historical significance, architectural beauty, and religious importance make it a notable destination for those seeking spiritual solace in the...

Sri Panchalingeshwara temple is the largest as well as oldest temples of Dakshina Kannada district. The temple is located in Vittla or Vittal region comprising of 16 villages, Bantwal taluk of Dakshina Kannada district. The Panchalingeshwara temple is famous for its unique ancient artifact and rare artistic magnificence. The shape of the temple appears like the back of an Elephant. The glorious past of the temple relates to the Mahabharata. It is believed that the five Shiva Lingas at the temple sanctum were consecrated by the Pandavas. The five Shiva Lingas at the sanctum are Sadyojotha, Vamadeva, Aghora, Thathpurusha and Ishana. These are believed to be the five features of Lord Shiva.

The three-storey temple is similar in structure to those built in Madhur (Ganapathy) and Adoor in Kerala.

The Panchalingeshwara temple at Vittla is one of the temples and places of worship administered by the Domba Heggade dynasty. Panchalingeshwara was the chief deity of the Heggade dynasty. Ullalthy temple at Kepu is another important...