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Shri Dharmaraya Swamy Temple: A Bengaluru Legacy

Discover Bengaluru's ancient Shri Dharmaraya Swamy Temple, a unique tribute to the Pandavas and the vibrant Karaga festival.

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Dedicated to the Pandavas, heroes of the Mahabharata, Shri Dharmaraya Swamy Temple is a unique and ancient Dravidian-style temple in the heart of Bengaluru. It's famed for its annual Karaga festival, a vibrant celebration of Draupadi.

A brief summary to Shri Dharmarāya Swamy Temple

  • 1041 1st Cross, Dharmaraya Swamy Temple Rd, Bengaluru, Thigalarpet, Dodpete, Nagarathpete, Karnataka, 560002, IN
  • +918022352828
  • Monday 10 am-1 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-1 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-1 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-1 pm
  • Friday 10 am-1 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-1 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-1 pm

Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting the temple. Traditional attire is preferred, especially during festivals.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and experience a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Witness the Karaga festival (March/April) for a vibrant cultural experience, but plan your visit in advance due to large crowds.
  • Photography inside the inner sanctum may be restricted; check with temple authorities.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kempegowda Bus Station (Majestic), take a BMTC bus towards Nagarathpete. Several buses ply this route frequently. Alight at Dharmaraya Swamy Temple Road. The temple is a short walk from the bus stop. BMTC bus fares typically range from ₹10-₹30 depending on the distance.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From the city center, use app-based ride services like Ola or Uber to reach Shri Dharmaraya Swamy Temple. The journey typically takes 15-30 minutes depending on traffic. A short taxi ride will likely cost between ₹150-₹300.

  • Walking

    If you are near City Market, walk east along Dharmaraya Swamy Temple Road. The temple is approximately a 10-15 minute walk. Be mindful of traffic in this busy area.

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Discover more about Shri Dharmarāya Swamy Temple

Shri Dharmaraya Swamy Temple, located in Nagarathpete, Bengaluru, is a revered and historically significant temple dedicated to the Pandavas from the epic Mahabharata. Uniquely, it is one of the few temples in India dedicated to all five Pandava brothers and their consort Draupadi. Believed to be over 800 years old, the temple's architecture reflects a blend of Dravidian, Western Ganga, Pallava, and Vijayanagara styles. The ornate gopuram (entrance tower) and intricate carvings showcase the rich artistic heritage of the region. The temple has undergone several renovations throughout its history, with the garbhagruha (sanctum) showcasing Ganga architectural style, the vimanagopura (tower) in Pallava style, and the mukhamantapa (hall) in Vijayanagara style. The temple is the epicenter of the annual Karaga festival, typically held in March or April. This vibrant festival honors Draupadi and celebrates the triumph of good over evil. A key event involves a procession led by a priest dressed as a woman, carrying a decorated clay pot (the Karaga) on their head through the streets of the old city. The Karaga festival is known for its display of religious harmony, with people of all faiths participating in the festivities. Visiting Shri Dharmaraya Swamy Temple offers a spiritual experience and a glimpse into Bengaluru's rich cultural history. The temple provides a serene ambiance for devotion and exploration, attracting devotees and tourists alike.

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