Last Updated on January 11, 2024 by admin
Embark on an exciting road trip from Bangalore to Kotilingeshwara and immerse yourself in a spiritual and scenic journey like never before! Here’s a travel guide to make the most of your road trip:
Route: Bangalore – Kolar – Kotilingeshwara
Distance: Approximately 95 kilometres (about 2.5 to 3 hours drive, depending on traffic and road conditions).
Best Time to Visit: The best time to plan your road trip is during the cooler months, from October to February, when the weather is pleasant.
Route and Driving Directions:
- Start your journey from Bangalore and head towards Hoskote, taking the NH 75 route.
- Continue on NH 75 until you reach Kolar. You will pass through Chikka Tirupathi on the way.
- In Kolar, turn left onto the SH 95 road, which will lead you to Kotilingeshwara Temple.
Read More: Bangalore to Ooty Road Trip
Places to Explore during Bangalore to Kotilingeshwara Road Trip
During your Bangalore to Kotilingeshwara road trip, you’ll have the opportunity to explore some interesting places. Here are a few noteworthy stops to consider adding to your itinerary, but the speciality is just about Kotilingeshwara Temple:
Kotilingeshwara Temple
As soon as the month of Sawan begins, chants of Har Har Mahadev start in all the Shiva temples. All the devotees are fasting and worshipping Baba to fulfil their wishes. This article is about an extraordinary temple. This temple is a treasure trove of wonder and an ocean of devotion. All the devotees will be able to take a dip in faith. This temple is known as Kotilingeshwar Dham. This enchanting temple is situated at Kammasandra in the Kolar district of Karnataka state.
The unique thing about this temple is that there are not one or two crores of Shivling here, which makes this temple different from other temples. You must be thinking that I am joking with you. No-no, I am not kidding you; if you want, you can also search Google for this beautiful temple. Apart from crores of Shivlings, another identity of this temple is the main Shivling, which is famous for its vast form.
The Speciality of the Kotilingeshwara Temple
The name of this temple (Kotilingeshwar) itself tells its thing. The word Koti in Sanskrit has two meanings, one is ‘the ultimate’, and the other is crore. Both these meanings reflect the speciality of this temple. As I have already told you, the number of Shivling in this temple is in ‘Crores’, and this temple is very excellent, i.e. ‘Param’. Lord Shiva resides in every particle of this temple.
Apart from crores of Shivlings, another identity of this temple is the main Shivling, which is famous for its vast form. This colossal form of Shivling is 33 meters high. Just in front of the Shivling, the statue of the gatekeeper of Nandidev Kailash is 18 meters in length and 12 meters in width. When Baba’s idol is so tall, then think how the idol of his supreme devotee Nandi Maharaj can be small. The view of crores of Shivlings and the colossal statue of Nandi Maharaj in the temple premises, imagine how wonderful the sight would be. Devotees get satisfied just by seeing it.
Other Attractions here
Apart from Lord Shiva, idols of other deities are also installed here, such as Lord Vishnu, Brahma, Mahesh, Rama, Goddess Annapurneshwari, Goddess Karumari Amma, Lord Venkataramani Swamy, Lord Panduranga Swamy, Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshmana Temple, Lord Panchmukhi Ganapati and In this way, you can have darshan of Lord Hanuman etc. other deities also. Thousands of devotees from every corner of the country come here to fulfil their wishes. There is more crowd of devotees here during the Mahashivaratri and Sawan months.
In the same list, the devotees whose wishes are fulfilled establish a Shivling. In this way, the number of Shivlings is increasing daily here. You have to contact the temple organization to install the Shivling. It is an essential place from a tourism and religious point of view.
How to reach Kotilingeshwar Temple?
If you want to come here, you can come to Bangalore airport by catching an aeroplane from any corner of the country. And you can take a cab to Kolar from Bangalore. The distance from Bangalore to Kotilingeshwara Temple is just 94 km. If you wish, you can plan a 1 day trip from Bangalore to Kotilingeshwar.
Via Bangalore – Kolar Route – If you go by road, there are three ways to go from Bangalore to Kotilingeshwar.
1- Via Bangalore – Kolar – 2 hrs 25 mins (94.9 km) via NH75.
2) Via Bangalore – Kolar – 2 hours 59 minutes (125.6 km) via Bellary Road.
3- Via Bangalore – Kolar – 3 hrs 7 min (96.1 km) via SH 95.
Among all these routes, the best first route for you is NH75. This route is the shortest and easiest route.
Local places other than the temple: Though this temple is modern, but the place where it is situated is very ancient. Kolar is also mentioned in the Ramayana period. Apart from the temple, you can also visit these places. This is the place which reflects the existence and history of Kolar.
Read About: Bangalore to Nandi Hills Road Trip
Other Major Attractions During Bangalore to Kotilingeshwar Road Trip
Kolaramma Temple
Mother Parvati is enshrined in the form of Kolaramma in this temple. This Dravidian-style temple is a unique piece of architecture. In Kolar, the Kolaramma Temple is one of the region’s oldest and most significant temples. It belongs to Goddess Kolaramma, believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. The temple’s architecture showcases stunning Dravidian and Vijayanagara styles, with intricate carvings and sculptures adorning its walls. As you visit the temple, take in the spiritual atmosphere and admire the historical heritage of this ancient site.
Someshwar Temple
Secondly, it is the Someshwar Temple for religious reasons. This ancient temple was built during the Chola rule. Its design describes the exquisite architecture of the time. Someshwar means Shiva, and the temple belongs to Lord Shiva.
Kolar Mountain
Like other tourist places, this mountain is also a favourite. The view of the rising and setting sun is very mesmerizing here. Kolar Mountain, often called Kolar Betta, is a hillock near Kolar town. The hill offers a pleasant trek and rewards hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The lush greenery and serene ambience make it an ideal spot to spend quality time amidst nature. As you ascend to the top, you’ll witness a charming temple dedicated to Lord Rama, adding a spiritual touch to your trekking experience.
Antara Gange
Further, it is Antara Gange. This temple, the Kashi of the South, is on the Shatshringa mountain. Antara Gange is a popular destination near Kolar, famous for its natural rock formations, caves, and perennial spring. The trek to the top of the hill is relatively easy, making it accessible for all age groups. The caves are ancient and hold historical and mythological significance. The spring, known as “Kashi Vishwanatha Teertha,” is a unique attraction where water flows from the rocks. Exploring Antara Gange blends adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty.
Kurudmel
On the other hand, it is Kurudmel. This temple belongs to Lord Ganesha. The unique thing about this temple is that this sitting idol of Vighnaharta Ganesha is 13.5 feet high. Kurudumale, also known as Kurudumale Ganesha Temple, is a small village near Kolar. It houses a revered temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, attracting devotees from far and wide. The idol of Lord Ganesha here is unique and significant, believed to have self-manifested. The temple’s architecture is simple yet elegant, and the peaceful surroundings make it a tranquil place for prayers and reflection.
Tips for the Road Trip:
- Start early to avoid traffic and make the most of the day.
- Carry sufficient water and snacks for the journey, especially if you plan to visit multiple places.
- Keep a camera handy to capture the scenic beauty and memorable moments.
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.
- Respect the local customs and traditions while visiting temples and religious sites.