It cannot be discounted that to know India is to know the temples of India, whether as a pilgrimage or part of touring the country. However, it is impossible to cover all the temples in India in one go, which is why people keep returning again and again.
Even within South India alone, the number of temples cannot be described in words. Still, the famous temples in South India draw thousands of people, including locals from other parts of the country.
And whether it’s an unspoken truth or an
accepted reality, there are express lanes where money talks. Cutting short the
long queues for getting closer to the gods in India (VARANASI INDIA SITES).
Temples in Bengaluru, India
Shivoham Shiva Temple - Bengaluru
Easily spotted along Old Airport Road, Shivoham Shiva Temple is one of the most
recognized spiritual landmarks in Bengaluru. It was built in 1995 and was
originally known as the Kemp Fort Shiva Temple, named after the nearby Kemp
Fort Mall. In 2015, the temple was renamed Shivoham Shiva Temple, highlighting
the deeper spiritual meaning of “Shivoham,” which translates to “I am Shiva.”
The evening prayer at Shivoham Shiva Temple draws an unstoppable number of people, and the queue can stretch to the other end. Patience is the virtue for waiting. The main highlight is the massive 65-foot statue of Lord Shiva in deep meditation. It represents the philosophy that divinity resides within every individual, encouraging self-realization alongside devotion.
Whether one is seeking religious or
spiritual guidance from Lord Shiva, it can be felt during prayers.
Praying in Shivoham Shiva Temple is at
one’s own accord, though specific prayers are conducted through chanting and
rituals performed by the priests. During auspicious festivals, particularly Maha
Shivaratri, the religious and spiritual atmosphere is even more prominent in
this Shiva temple in India.
When in Bengaluru, ISKCON Temple should be included in the itinerary. It is located near the Rajajinagar Metro Station, on Hare Krishna Hill, Chord Road. It is one of the largest ISKCON temples in India, while the main ISKCON headquarters is in Mayapur, West Bengal (at the Temple of the Vedic Planetarium complex).
Opened in 1997, the temple is designed in
an organized manner, guiding visitors step by step. After entering, one washes
their feet and follows the line to the main hall, where photos are not allowed
and police manage the crowd.
Inside the main hall, visitors can see the Krishna and Radha idols, the temple’s architecture with carvings and murals, the daily decorations of the deities, and cultural displays about Krishna’s life and ISKCON philosophy. Away from the altars, there are quiet spaces for reflection before walking out to the open courtyards. Along the way, prasadam (vegetarian food offered at the temple) is available, leaving ISKCON Bengaluru with fulfilled spirituality.
Chamundeshwari Temple/Chamundi Temple
It’s like a pilgrimage ride up the winding road to Chamundeshwari Temple at the summit of Chamundi Hill. Strict rules apply, No cameras are allowed, throughout the wait in the queue and inside the temple.
Chamundeshwari Temple is dedicated to paying homage and respect to Goddess Chamundeshwari, a form of Durga. Built in the 12th century, it is an example of ancient Indian temple architecture and reflects the fine details of Dravidian design. Not to be missed is the view of its intricate carvings and towering gopuram from below.
The prasadam at Chamundeshwari Temple in
Mysuru is a large ball of laddu (flour and ghee Indian sweet). It enlivens the
religious and spiritual feeling.
On the way up, the focus probably was
entirely on Chamundeshwari Temple. On the other
hand, while heading down from Chamundi Hill, peeping out of the windows for
admiring Mysuru city from the hilltop. The scenic nature in Mysuru is simply
breathtaking. Without a doubt, the most famous temple in Mysuru has to be Chamundeshwari
Temple.
Maruthamalai Murugan Temple
Heading up to Maruthamalai Murugan Temple, at the boarding area, one takes a bus to reach the base of the temple. From there, it is 837 steps up to the hilltop shrine.
Situated on Maruthamalai Hill, about 12 km
from Coimbatore city, this hilltop temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan, the
Hindu god of war and victory. The temple is known for blessings of courage,
wisdom, and success. Maruthamalai Murugan Temple is one of the ancient temples
in India, existing for several centuries, though the current structure has been
renovated over time.
The architecture follows traditional Dravidian style, with colorful gopurams (temple towers), carved pillars, and a shrine dedicated to Lord Murugan. During Thaipusam and Skanda Shasti, large numbers come to the temple. The temple is also notable for its hilltop location with panoramic views of Coimbatore, set amidst the scenic Western Ghats.
Isha Yoga Center in Coimbatore is one of India’s most famous spiritual centers. Founded in 1992 by Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, it is located at the foothills of the Velliangiri Mountains. From the main entrance, the walking path passes through beautiful gardens, trees, and open spaces, in natural setting.
Inside the center, the Dhyanalinga dome is
a large circular meditative structure. The meditation halls are quiet spaces
for sitting in silence, while temple areas feature pathways and small shrines.
Inner gardens and water features include greenery, ponds, and streams. Symbolic
pillars represent different spiritual traditions. Cameras and phones are not
allowed in these inner areas.
The path from the entrance leads to the
towering 112-foot Adiyogi statue, recognized by Guinness World Records as the
world’s largest bust sculpture. A bullock cart ride is available for a small
fee, giving a sense of traditional rural life. The statue stands against a lush
mountain backdrop and is visible from a distance.
The area is often busy, with people taking photos and videos. Prayers are available for a fee within the area.