The Bhoga Nandishwara Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Shiva located in Nandi village, at the foot of Nandi Hills (Nandidurga) in the Chikkaballapur district of Karnataka, India. The temple is one of the oldest surviving temples in the Nolambavadi-style of Dravidian architecture in Karnataka and has been variously dated between the 9th- to 10th-century CE.
The temple is built on a raised platform and has a three-tiered vimana (tower) that is crowned with a kalasha (finial). The vimana is decorated with intricate carvings of gods, goddesses, and mythical creatures. The temple also has a number of smaller shrines, including one dedicated to the goddess Parvati.
The Bhoga Nandishwara Temple is a popular pilgrimage site and is visited by thousands of devotees every year. The temple is also a popular tourist destination and is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
Here are some of the things you can see and do at the Bhoga Nandishwara Temple:
- Admire the architecture: The temple is a beautiful example of Nolambavadi-style Dravidian architecture. The vimana is decorated with intricate carvings of gods, goddesses, and mythical creatures.
- Visit the shrines: The temple has a number of smaller shrines, including one dedicated to the goddess Parvati.
- Take a walk around the temple complex: The temple complex is large and there is a lot to see. Take a walk around and explore the different shrines and courtyards.
- Attend a puja: The temple is a popular pilgrimage site and there are often pujas (rituals) being performed. If you are lucky, you may be able to witness one.
- Take a break from the hustle and bustle: The temple is located in a quiet village and is a great place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
If you are interested in Hindu temples, architecture, or history, then the Bhoga Nandishwara Temple is definitely worth a visit.
Here are some tips for visiting the Bhoga Nandishwara Temple:
- The temple is open from 6:30am to 12:30pm and from 4:00pm to 8:00pm.
- There is no entrance fee.
- Dress modestly.
- Photography is allowed.
- It is customary to remove your shoes before entering the temple.
- You can offer flowers, fruits, or other items to the gods.
- There are a number of shops selling souvenirs and religious items near the temple.
The Bhoga Nandishwara Temple is located in Nandi village, which is about 60 kilometers from Bangalore. The best way to get to the temple is by car or taxi. There are also a number of buses that run from Bangalore to Nandi village.