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Shri Gavi Gangadhareshwara Swamy Temple: A Bengaluru Cave of Wonders

Explore Bengaluru's ancient cave temple, a rock-cut marvel dedicated to Lord Shiva, famous for its unique solar illumination event.

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The Shri Gavi Gangadhareshwara Swamy Temple, also known as the Gavipuram Cave Temple, is an ancient marvel of rock-cut architecture in Bengaluru. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this cave temple attracts devotees and tourists alike with its unique design and historical significance. The temple is renowned for the phenomenon where sunlight illuminates the Shiva Linga on Makar Sankranti.

A brief summary to Shri Gavi Gangadhareshwara Swamy Temple

  • WHX7+754, 5th Main Rd, Bengaluru, Gavipuram Extention, Kempegowda Nagar, Karnataka, 560019, IN
  • Monday 6 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-8 pm
  • Friday 6 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during Makar Sankranti (mid-January) to witness the unique phenomenon of sunlight illuminating the Shiva Linga.
  • Dress modestly as this is a religious site. Remove footwear before entering the temple.
  • Be aware that the temple can get crowded, especially during festivals.
  • Check the temple timings before you go, as they may vary.
  • Explore other nearby attractions like the Bull Temple and Lalbagh Botanical Garden.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kempegowda Bus Station (Majestic), take a BMTC bus to Ramakrishna Ashram bus stop, which is the closest stop to the temple. Many buses operate on this route. From the Ramakrishna Ashram bus stop, it's a short walk to the temple. Bus fares are typically paid in cash. Alternatively, take the metro to National College station, the closest metro station. From there, hire an auto-rickshaw to the temple. Metro tokens or Namma Metro cards can be used for payment. * Bus fare: Approximately ₹10-₹20. * Auto-rickshaw fare from National College Metro Station: Approximately ₹50-₹70.

  • Walking

    If you are near Basavanagudi or areas around Kempambudhi Lake, walking to the temple is a viable option. Use a map to guide you to the temple, located in Gavipuram Extention, Kempegowda Nagar. Look for the large Nandi statue and the temple entrance. * No cost for walking.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Ola are readily available in Bengaluru. Use the app to book a ride to Shri Gavi Gangadhareshwara Swamy Temple in Gavipuram. * A short taxi ride from Bangalore City Railway Station will cost approximately ₹150-₹250.

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Discover more about Shri Gavi Gangadhareshwara Swamy Temple

Nestled in Gavipuram, Bengaluru, the Shri Gavi Gangadhareshwara Swamy Temple is a captivating example of Indian rock-cut architecture. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is believed to have been originally established during the Vedic period by Gautama Maharishi and Bharadwaja Muni and later renovated in the 16th century by Kempe Gowda I, the founder of Bengaluru. This renovation was a mark of gratitude for his release from prison. The temple's cave setting is carved from a single stone, showcasing remarkable artistry. The courtyard features monolithic sculptures, including granite pillars supporting massive sun and moon discs. Other notable features include pillars adorned with Nandi carvings and monolithic pillars representing the Damaru, Trishul, and large circular discs. One of the temple's most famous aspects is the phenomenon that occurs on Makar Sankranti. On this day, sunlight passes through the horns of a Nandi statue, illuminating the Shiva Linga inside the cave for about an hour. This event draws thousands of devotees. The temple also celebrates other major festivals like Shivaratri, Navaratri and Kartika Somavara with great devotion. Visitors can explore the temple's unique architecture and soak in its spiritual atmosphere. The temple is open to the public during specific hours, and appropriate attire is recommended.

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