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Someshwara Swamy Temple: A Timeless Sanctuary in Bengaluru

Discover ancient Dravidian architecture at Bengaluru's Halasuru Someshwara Temple, a spiritual and historical landmark dating back to the Chola era.

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The Someshwara Swamy Temple, located in Halasuru, Bengaluru, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Believed to have originated during the Chola period and enhanced by the Vijayanagara rulers, it stands as one of the city's oldest temples, showcasing a blend of architectural styles and rich cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Someshwara Swamy Temple, Halasuru

  • Monday 6 am-12:30 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-12:30 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-12:30 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-12:30 pm
  • Friday 6 am-12:30 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-12:30 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-12:30 pm

Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting the temple; traditional Indian clothing is recommended.
  • Photography is not allowed inside the temple's inner sanctums.
  • Remove footwear before entering the temple premises.
  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
  • Carry loose change if you wish to make donations at the various shrines within the complex.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Bengaluru city center (e.g., MG Road), take the Purple Line metro to Halasuru station. From the Halasuru metro station, the temple is approximately a 10-minute walk. Alternatively, numerous BMTC buses connect various parts of Bengaluru to Halasuru. Alight at the Halasuru bus stop, which is a short walk from the temple. Bus fares range from ₹10-₹15.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services (Ola, Uber) are readily available throughout Bengaluru. A ride from the city center (e.g., MG Road) to Halasuru Someshwara Temple typically costs between ₹150-₹250, depending on traffic and distance.

  • Walking

    From areas close to Halasuru, such as Indiranagar or Trinity Circle, walking to the temple is a viable option. The walk is approximately 15-30 minutes, depending on your starting point. Follow Ulsoor Road to reach the temple. Be mindful of traffic and pedestrian safety.

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Discover more about Someshwara Swamy Temple, Halasuru

Nestled in the bustling neighborhood of Halasuru (Ulsoor) in Bengaluru, the Someshwara Swamy Temple is a spiritual oasis and a historical landmark. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this ancient temple is considered one of the oldest in the city, with its origins tracing back to the Chola period. Over the centuries, it has been expanded and renovated by various dynasties, including the Vijayanagara Empire and Kempe Gowda I and II, resulting in a unique blend of architectural styles. The temple's architecture showcases a mix of Chola and Vijayanagara influences. The presence of Yali pillars, featuring the mythical beast resembling a lion with an elephant trunk, suggests contributions from the Hoysala dynasty. The eastern Gopuram, a typical 16th-century structure, stands as a testament to the Vijayanagara period. The temple complex includes shrines dedicated to various deities, including Kamakshamma, Arunachaleswara, Bhimeswara, Nanjundeswara, and Panchalingeswara. The temple is renowned for its intricate carvings and sculptures. Depictions of Lord Someshwara's wedding with Parvati, Ravana lifting Mount Kailash, and Goddess Durga slaying Mahishasura are among the most captivating. The open mantapa features forty-eight pillars adorned with carvings of divinities. The temple also houses a Navagraha temple with twelve pillars, each representing a saint. The legend behind the temple's consecration tells of King Kempe Gowda, who, while hunting, fell asleep under a tree and dreamt of Lord Someshwara. The deity instructed him to build a temple in his honor using buried treasure, promising divine favor in return. Another version attributes the temple's construction to King Jayappa Gowda, who was instructed in a dream to retrieve a linga buried under his sleeping spot and build a temple there. The Halasuru Someshwara Swamy Temple remains an active place of worship and a major tourist attraction. Visitors are drawn to its historical significance, architectural beauty, and serene ambiance. The temple is particularly vibrant during festivals like Maha Shivaratri, Brahmotsava, and Kamakshamma Pallaki Utsav.

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