Bangalore, known for its thriving tech industry, is equally famous for its spiritual sanctuaries. The city is home to a diverse range of temples, each with its own unique history, architecture, and religious significance. These temples serve as tranquil retreats amidst the city’s bustling urban life, offering a place for meditation, prayer, and cultural immersion. Explore the 13 most popular temples in Bangalore that are perfect for a spiritual retreat in 2024 With Us.

1. ISKCON Temple

The ISKCON Temple in Bangalore is not just a place of worship; it is a spiritual oasis that attracts millions of visitors every year. Established in 1997, the temple is part of the global ISKCON movement, which was founded by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada in 1966. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is a hub for spiritual learning and cultural activities. The temple complex includes a Vedic museum, a theatre, and a restaurant that serves delicious vegetarian food. The temple’s mission is to promote the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and the Srimad Bhagavatam, encouraging devotees to lead a life of devotion, service, and compassion.

Famous For: The ISKCON Temple is famous for its grand celebrations of festivals such as Krishna Janmashtami, Radhashtami, and Gaura Purnima. The temple’s architecture is a blend of traditional and modern styles, featuring intricate carvings, beautiful domes, and a majestic rajagopuram (tower). The temple’s serene environment and the soul-stirring kirtans (devotional songs) make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking spiritual solace.

Location: Hare Krishna Hill, Chord Rd, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560010.

Opening and Closing Timings: 4:15 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:15 PM to 8:20 PM.

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2. Bull Temple (Nandi Temple)

The Bull Temple, also known as Dodda Basavana Gudi, is one of the oldest temples in Bangalore and is a symbol of the city’s rich cultural heritage & it’s most popular temples in Bangalore. The temple was built in the 16th century by Kempe Gowda, the founder of Bangalore, and is dedicated to Nandi, the sacred bull and the vehicle of Lord Shiva. The temple’s architecture is a classic example of Dravidian style, with its massive pillars, towering gopuram, and beautifully carved granite structures. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site, attracting devotees from all over the country who come to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and Nandi.

Famous For: The Bull Temple is famous for its colossal monolithic statue of Nandi, which is carved out of a single piece of granite. The statue stands 15 feet tall and 20 feet long, making it one of the largest Nandi statues in the world. The temple is also known for the annual Kadalekai Parishe (Groundnut Fair), which is held in November. During this festival, farmers from surrounding villages bring their first harvest of groundnuts to be offered to the deity. The temple’s tranquil surroundings and its rich historical significance make it a must-visit destination in Bangalore.

Location: N.R. Colony, Basavanagudi, Bangalore.

Opening and Closing Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

3. Banashankari Temple

The Banashankari Temple, dedicated to Goddess Banashankari, a form of Goddess Parvati, is a revered temple in Bangalore. The temple was constructed in 1915 by a devotee named Subramanya Shetty, who was an ardent follower of the goddess. The temple is considered a powerful Shakti Peetha and is visited by devotees seeking protection, prosperity, and relief from hardships. The temple’s architecture is simple yet elegant, reflecting the traditional South Indian temple style. The temple is surrounded by lush greenery, adding to its serene and peaceful atmosphere.

Famous For: The Banashankari Temple is unique because devotees visit the temple during Rahukala, an inauspicious period according to Hindu astrology, to perform special poojas and seek the goddess’s blessings. This practice is believed to ward off evil and bring good fortune. The temple is also famous for the Banashankari Jatre, an annual fair held in January or February, which attracts thousands of devotees from across Karnataka. The fair is a vibrant celebration, featuring cultural performances, folk dances, and a variety of stalls selling traditional items. The temple’s spiritual ambiance and its significance in the local community make it a popular destination for those seeking divine intervention.

Location: Kanakapura Road, Banashankari, Bangalore.

Opening and Closing Timings: 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM.

4. Dodda Ganesha Temple

The Dodda Ganesha Temple, located near the Bull Temple, is one of the most popular temples in Bangalore. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, and is believed to have been built by Kempe Gowda in the 16th century. The temple is a fine example of Dravidian architecture, with its intricately carved pillars, ornate ceilings, and beautifully sculpted idol of Lord Ganesha. The temple is a bustling center of devotion, especially during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, when thousands of devotees flock to the temple to offer prayers and seek blessings.

Famous For: The Dodda Ganesha Temple is famous for its massive monolithic statue of Lord Ganesha, which measures 18 feet in height and 16 feet in width. The idol is adorned with butter, flowers, and other decorations during special occasions, making it a sight to behold. The temple is also known for its unique rituals, such as the daily abhishekam (ritual bathing) of the Ganesha idol, which is performed with milk, honey, and other sacred substances. The temple’s vibrant atmosphere, combined with its historical significance and the grandeur of the Ganesha idol, makes it a must-visit for devotees and tourists alike.

Location: Bull Temple Road, Basavanagudi, Bangalore.

Opening and Closing Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM.

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5. Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple

The Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple is one of the oldest and most unique and most popular temples in Bangalore. This rock-cut cave temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and was built in the 9th century by the Ganga dynasty. The temple is a masterpiece of ancient Indian rock-cut architecture, featuring intricately carved pillars, a Shiva Lingam, and a Nandi statue. The temple is famous for its mystical and serene atmosphere, making it a popular destination for devotees and spiritual seekers. The temple’s location within a natural cave adds to its aura of mystery and divine energy.

Famous For: The Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple is famous for its unique architectural design, which is said to have been built to align with the sun’s position during the annual Makar Sankranti festival. On this day, the sun’s rays pass through the temple’s windows and illuminate the Shiva Lingam inside the sanctum, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. This phenomenon attracts thousands of devotees and tourists who come to witness the divine event. The temple is also known for its peaceful ambiance, making it an ideal spot for meditation and spiritual reflection. The combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and spiritual energy makes the Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple a must-visit destination in Bangalore.

Location: Gavipuram, Kempegowda Nagar, Bangalore.

Opening and Closing Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

6. Chokkanathaswamy Temple

The Chokkanathaswamy Temple is one of the oldest & most popular temples in Bangalore, with a history that dates back over a thousand years. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple is believed to have been built during the reign of the Cholas in the 10th century. The temple’s architecture reflects the grandeur of the Chola dynasty, with intricately carved pillars, a beautifully sculpted idol of Lord Vishnu, and a stunning Vimana (tower) that dominates the skyline. The temple is a living testament to Bangalore’s rich cultural and religious heritage, attracting devotees and history enthusiasts alike.

Famous For: The Chokkanathaswamy Temple is famous for its exquisite Chola-era architecture, particularly the intricately carved pillars and the beautifully sculpted idol of Lord Vishnu. The temple is also known for its serene and peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal place for meditation and spiritual reflection. The temple’s historical significance is further highlighted by the presence of inscriptions in Tamil and Kannada, which provide valuable insights into the temple’s history

and the cultural practices of the time. The temple’s timeless beauty and its role as a center of devotion make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring Bangalore’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

Location: Domlur, Bangalore.

Opening and Closing Timings: 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

7. Ragigudda Anjaneya Temple

The Ragigudda Anjaneya Temple is one of the most revered and most popular temples in Bangalore, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the epitome of devotion, strength, and humility. The temple was established in 1969 and is situated on a small hillock, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding area. The temple complex includes shrines dedicated to other deities, including Lord Rama, Goddess Sita, and Lord Lakshmana, making it a complete spiritual destination for devotees of the Ramayana. The temple is a vibrant center of devotion, attracting thousands of visitors every year, especially during Hanuman Jayanti.

Famous For: The Ragigudda Anjaneya Temple is famous for its peaceful environment and the annual Hanuman Jayanti celebrations, which are marked by special poojas, kirtans, and cultural programs. The temple is also known for its unique ritual of offering ragis (finger millet) to the deity, a practice that is believed to have given the temple its name. The temple’s serene surroundings, combined with the powerful presence of Lord Hanuman, make it a popular destination for those seeking spiritual solace and divine blessings. The temple’s panoramic view of Bangalore, coupled with its rich spiritual ambiance, makes it a must-visit destination for devotees and tourists alike.

Location: Jayanagar 9th Block, Bangalore.

Opening and Closing Timings: 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM.

8. Kote Venkataramana Temple

The Kote Venkataramana Temple is one of the oldest and most historically significant temples in Bangalore. Built in the 17th century by Chikka Devaraja Wodeyar, the temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara, a form of Lord Vishnu. The temple is located near the Bangalore Fort, adding to its historical significance as a center of devotion for the royal family and the local population. The temple’s architecture is a fine example of Dravidian style, with its towering gopuram, intricately carved pillars, and beautifully sculpted idols of various deities.

Famous For: The Kote Venkataramana Temple is famous for its stunning Dravidian-style architecture, particularly the gopuram (tower) that dominates the entrance. The temple is also known for its rich history, having served as a spiritual center for the Wodeyar dynasty and the local community. The temple’s annual Brahmotsavam festival is a major event, attracting thousands of devotees who come to participate in the grand procession of the deity. The temple’s serene atmosphere, combined with its architectural beauty and historical significance, makes it a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring Bangalore’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

Location: Krishna Rajendra Road, Chamarajapet, Bangalore.

Opening and Closing Timings: 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

9. Kadu Malleshwara Temple

The Kadu Malleshwara Temple is one of the most revered temples in Bangalore, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple was built in the 17th century by Venkoji, the brother of the Maratha ruler Shivaji. The temple is located in the Malleshwaram area, which is named after the temple. The temple’s architecture is a blend of Dravidian and Maratha styles, with its towering gopuram, intricately carved pillars, and beautifully sculpted idols of various deities. The temple is surrounded by lush greenery, giving it a serene and peaceful atmosphere that is perfect for meditation and spiritual reflection.

Famous For: The Kadu Malleshwara Temple is famous for its serene surroundings, with lush greenery that gives the temple its name (“Kadu” means forest in Kannada). The temple is also known for its unique rituals, such as the daily abhishekam (ritual bathing) of the Shiva Lingam, which is performed with sacred substances such as milk, honey, and curd. The temple’s annual Maha Shivaratri festival is a major event, attracting thousands of devotees who come to participate in the grand poojas and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. The temple’s tranquil environment, combined with its historical significance and spiritual energy, makes it a must-visit destination in Bangalore.

Location: Malleshwaram, Bangalore.

Opening and Closing Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM.

10. Vasanthapura Temple

The Vasanthapura Temple is a 13th-century temple dedicated to Lord Vasantha Vallabharaya, a form of Lord Vishnu. The temple is located on a hillock in the Vasanthapura area, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. The temple is believed to have been built by the Cholas, and its architecture reflects the grandeur of the Chola dynasty, with its intricately carved pillars, beautifully sculpted idols, and a stunning Vimana (tower) that dominates the skyline. The temple is a popular destination for devotees seeking the blessings of Lord Vishnu and for those interested in exploring Bangalore’s rich cultural and religious heritage.

Famous For: The Vasanthapura Temple is famous for its annual Vasanthotsava festival, which is celebrated with great pomp and show. The festival is a vibrant celebration of the arrival of spring, with special poojas, cultural performances, and a grand procession of the deity. The temple is also known for its serene surroundings, making it an ideal spot for meditation and spiritual reflection. The combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and spiritual energy makes the Vasanthapura Temple a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a spiritual retreat in Bangalore.

Location: Vasanthapura, Bangalore.

Opening and Closing Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

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11. Dharmaraya Swamy Temple

History and Significance: The Dharmaraya Swamy Temple is one of the oldest and most unique temples in Bangalore, dedicated to the Pandavas of the Mahabharata. The temple was built over 800 years ago and is a rare example of a temple dedicated to the Pandavas. The temple’s architecture is a blend of Dravidian and Vijayanagara styles, with its intricately carved pillars, beautifully sculpted idols, and a stunning Vimana (tower) that dominates the skyline. The temple is a popular destination for devotees seeking the blessings of the Pandavas and for those interested in exploring Bangalore’s rich cultural and religious heritage.

Famous For: The Dharmaraya Swamy Temple is famous for the annual Karaga festival, one of the oldest festivals in Bangalore, which is celebrated with vibrant processions and cultural performances. The festival is a grand celebration of the city’s rich cultural heritage and attracts thousands of devotees from across Karnataka. The temple is also known for its unique rituals, such as the daily abhishekam (ritual bathing) of the deity, which is performed with sacred substances such as milk, honey, and curd. The temple’s rich history, combined with its spiritual energy and cultural significance, makes it a must-visit destination in Bangalore.

Location: Nagarathpete, Bangalore.

Opening and Closing Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM.

12. Sri Someshwara Temple

The Sri Someshwara Temple is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Bangalore, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple dates back to the Chola period and is believed to have been built over a thousand years ago. The temple’s architecture is a fine example of Dravidian style, with its towering gopuram, intricately carved pillars, and beautifully sculpted idols of various deities. The temple is a popular destination for devotees seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva and for those interested in exploring Bangalore’s rich cultural and religious heritage.

Famous For: The Sri Someshwara Temple is famous for its stunning architecture, particularly the beautifully carved pillars and the large Nandi statue. The temple is also known for its unique rituals, such as the daily abhishekam (ritual bathing) of the Shiva Lingam, which is performed with sacred substances such as milk, honey, and curd. The temple’s annual Maha Shivaratri festival is a major event, attracting thousands of devotees who come to participate in the grand poojas and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. The temple’s rich history, combined with its spiritual energy and architectural beauty, makes it a must-visit destination in Bangalore.

Location: Ulsoor, Bangalore.

Opening and Closing Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

13. Sri Raja Rajeshwari Temple

The Sri Raja Rajeshwari Temple is one of the most revered temples in Bangalore, dedicated to Goddess Rajeshwari, a form of Goddess Durga. The temple was established by Sri Tiruchi Mahaswami in the 1960s and is a popular destination for devotees seeking the blessings of the goddess. The temple’s architecture is a blend of traditional and

modern styles, with its towering gopuram, intricately carved pillars, and beautifully sculpted idols of various deities. The temple is a vibrant center of devotion, attracting thousands of visitors every year, especially during the Navaratri festival.

Famous For: The Sri Raja Rajeshwari Temple is famous for its grand celebrations of the Navaratri festival, which is marked by special poojas, cultural performances, and a grand procession of the deity. The temple is also known for its serene surroundings, making it an ideal spot for meditation and spiritual reflection. The temple’s rich spiritual energy, combined with its architectural beauty and cultural significance, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a spiritual retreat in Bangalore.

Location: Rajarajeshwari Nagar, Bangalore.

Opening and Closing Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.