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The religious fervor of Karnataka is evident in the number of temples here that are living examples of Hoysala architectural style and have an aura of peace and serenity surrounding them. The elaborate sculpture, the ancient temple architecture and the rock-cut cave temples of Karnataka have proved themselves to be sturdy against the rigors of sun and rain. One can still see the monuments from the 7th century and the Badami cave temples built by the Chalukyas.
Temples of Karnataka represents the typical Dravidian style of architecture. Pilgrimage centers such as Mookambika and Udupi nestling on the Western Ghats showcases the ruins of the once grand Vijayanagar edifices at Hampi. Some other notable temples of Karnataka are Atmalinga temple of Gokarna that absolves one of all the sins, early 15th century Hazara Ram Temple with sculptures depicting various incarnations of Lord Vishnu and Ugra Narsimha Temple of Hampi, the cave temple of Hidimbeshwara said to be the oldest temple on the hill, 16th century Bull temple at Bangalore with a gigantic statue of Nandi Bull, the mount of Lord Shiva.
Major Temple Attractions of Karnataka
Somnathpur Temple
Karnataka is justly called the cradle of stone architecture, as its peerless stone wonders are eloquent reminders of a fertile heritage. As one reaches Somnathpur, a small village on the banks of the Kaveri, 140 kms, south-west of Bangalore, one feels an eternal stillness and freshness in the air as if the place is if saying eternity grows here. Here, amidst the lasting rural serenity stands Kesava temple - one of the grandest of Hoysala monuments. The Somnathpur temple built in AD 1268 is considered an example of the fully evolved style of Hoysala architecture. The Hoysalas were a mighty martial race who ruled large parts of present day Karnataka between 1100 and 1320 AD.
The Hoysala temple at Somnathpur is truly unique in design, perfect in proportion and the stone carvings are striking marvels in stone. The shrine stands in the centre of a walled compound, around which runs an open verandah with 64 cells. The temple itself, stellar in shape, has three elaborately carved pinnacles with a common Navranga and stands on a raised platform.
Badami Cave Temple
Badami is famous for its cave temples - all hewn out of sand stone on the cliff of a hill. Badami arrayed with most picturesque location is worth a visit site. The region is adorned with pristine blue lake, famous ancient temple shrines, museum and above all Hindu and Jain caves, carved out of Sandstone. The largest and most ornamental is the third cave temple dedicated to Vishnu.
A reservoir thronged with temples dedicated to Vishnu and Shiva (holy deities of Hindu's) is another attraction of the region. Also a must are the Bhutanath temples that lend their name to the lake beneath the cave temples. The temple architecture is a blend of North Indian Nagara Style and South Indian Dravidian style of architecture. Each cave has a sanctum, a hall, a verandah and pillars. The cave temples also bear exquisite carvings, sculptures and beautiful murals. The annual temple festival of Banashankari, held during January/ February is very popular. Other important festivals are the Virupaksha Temple Car Festival and Mallikarjuna Temple Festival held at Pattadakal, celebrated during the month of March/ April.
Iskon Temple
Iskcon temple in the city of Bangalore is one of the most popular and sought after pilgrimage centers in the region. The Iskcon Temple was built recently by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness. As you climb the granite steps you will encounter three small shrines before the main temple. The three idols of Lord Krishna in the main shrine are made of brass. The majestic temple complex, the supreme deities of Lord Krishna, Radha and the spiritual atmosphere makes the pilgrimage one of the most holy sites. This temple attracts people from national and international front every week.
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Duration: 19 Nights / 20 Days
Destinations: Bangalore - Mysore - Ooty - Kodaikanal - Munnar - Thekkedy
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Duration: 08 Nights / 09 Days
Destinations: Bangalore - Coorg - Mysore - Ooty - Kodaikanal - Coimbatore
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Duration: 06 Nights / 07 Days
Destinations: Bangalore - Sravanabelagola - Belure - Halabid - Bangalore
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Duration: 11 Nights / 12 Days
Destinations: Mysore - Sravanabelagola - Belure - Halabid - Hassan - Goa
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