Bangalore, also known as Bengaluru, is the capital city of Karnataka and one of the most popular destinations in India. The city is known for its pleasant climate, cosmopolitan culture, and vibrant nightlife. But apart from these modern attractions in Bangalore, visit during Bangalore sightseeing tour, Bangalore also has a rich history and heritage that can be explored through its monuments and landmarks. One of the most ancient and auspicious among them is the Shri Someshwara Swamy Temple.
Location of Shri Someshwara Swamy Temple
The Shri Someshwara Swamy Temple is located in the Ulsoor area of the city, near the Ulsoor Lake. It is easily accessible by public transport, such as buses, metro, auto-rickshaws, and taxis. The nearest metro station is Trinity, which is about 2 km away from the temple. The temple is also close to other tourist attractions, such as MG Road, Brigade Road, and Commercial Street.
Timing/Entry Fees Shri Someshwara Swamy Temple
The temple is open to visitors from 6 am to 12 pm and from 5 pm to 9 pm on all days of the week. There is no entry fee for visiting the temple. However, donations are welcome and can be made at the donation boxes inside the temple. The temple also offers pooja services and prasadam (sacred food) to the devotees.
How to Reach Shri Someshwara Swamy Temple
The temple can be reached by various modes of transport from different parts of the city. Here are some of the options:
- By Bus: There are several buses that ply to and from the temple from various bus stops in the city. Some of the bus numbers are 60A, 60B, 60C, 60D, 60E, 60F, 60G, 60H, and 60J.
- By Metro: The nearest metro station to the temple is Trinity, which is on the Purple Line of the Namma Metro. From there, one can take an auto-rickshaw or a taxi to reach the temple.
- By Auto-Rickshaw/Taxi: Auto-rickshaws and taxis are easily available in the city and can be hired to reach the temple. The fare may vary depending on the distance and traffic conditions.
- By Car: The temple has a parking facility for visitors who come by their own vehicles. The parking fee is Rs. 10 for two-wheelers and Rs. 20 for four-wheelers.
Things to Do/Must See Shri Someshwara Swamy Temple
The temple is a sacred and serene structure that showcases the splendor and elegance of Dravidian architecture. It is one of the oldest temples in Bangalore and one of the most revered temples dedicated to Lord Shiva (also known as Someshwara). The temple was built by Kempe Gowda I, the founder of Bangalore, in the 16th century. The temple has several features and attractions that make it a must-visit place for anyone who wants to experience the ancient and auspicious temple.
Some of the things to do and must see in the temple are:
- Admire the architecture and design of the temple, which has a gopuram (tower) that rises to a height of 48 feet. The gopuram has intricate carvings of gods and goddesses, animals and birds, flowers and fruits, and geometric patterns. The entrance of the temple has a dwajasthambam (flagpole) that bears a saffron flag with an image of Nandi (the bull mount of Shiva). The sanctum sanctorum of the temple has a lingam (symbol of Shiva) that is made of black stone and decorated with flowers and garlands.
- Explore the history and significance of the temple through its various idols and sculptures that are displayed inside. The temple has idols of Ganesha (the elephant-headed god), Subramanya (the six-faced god), Parvati (the consort of Shiva), Brahma (the creator god), Vishnu (the preserver god), Lakshmi (the goddess of wealth), Saraswati (the goddess of learning), Durga (the goddess of power), Hanuman (the monkey god), Rama (the avatar of Vishnu), Sita (the wife of Rama), Lakshmana (the brother of Rama), Anjaneya (another name for Hanuman), Bhairava (a fierce form of Shiva), Chandikeshwara (a devotee of Shiva), Nataraja (the cosmic dancer form of Shiva), Ardhanarishwara (the half-male half-female form of Shiva), Kala Bhairava (the lord of time), Navagraha (the nine planets), and Ashtalakshmi (the eight forms of Lakshmi).
Significance of Shri Someshwara Swamy Temple
The temple is not only a historical and architectural marvel, but also a spiritual and cultural hub of the city. The temple hosts various events and functions throughout the year, such as poojas, abhishekas, aratis, homas, and festivals. The most famous and grand among them is the Maha Shivaratri, which is celebrated every year in February or March. The festival attracts thousands of devotees and pilgrims from different parts of the country and the world, who come to worship Lord Shiva and seek his blessings. The festival culminates with a spectacular procession that carries the idol of Shiva through the streets of Bangalore.
FAQ’s
Q: How old is Shri Someshwara Swamy Temple?
A: The temple was built by Kempe Gowda I in the 16th century, but its history dates back to the 12th century, when a Chola king named Rajendra Chola I installed a lingam in the same site.
Q: Why is Shri Someshwara Swamy Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva?
A: The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva because he is believed to be the supreme god and the destroyer of evil. Shiva is also known as Someshwara, which means the lord of the moon. According to legend, Shiva once drank the poison that emerged from the churning of the ocean to save the world. The poison turned his throat blue, and he became known as Neelakantha (the blue-throated one). The moon god Chandra was grateful to Shiva for saving him from the poison, and he offered his crescent moon to adorn Shiva’s head. Hence, Shiva is also called Someshwara.
Q: What are the timings of the pooja services in Shri Someshwara Swamy Temple?
A: The temple offers pooja services at different times of the day. Here is the schedule:
Morning Pooja: 6 am to 7 am
Midday Pooja: 12 pm to 1 pm
Evening Pooja: 5 pm to 6 pm
Night Pooja: 8 pm to 9 pm
Conclusion
The Shri Someshwara Swamy Temple is a must-visit attraction for anyone who wants to experience the ancient and auspicious temple in Bangalore. The temple offers a glimpse into the history and heritage of Hinduism in India, as well as the beauty and diversity of Dravidian architecture. The temple is a place where faith meets art, where tradition meets innovation, and where devotion meets celebration. The temple is a place where you can discover the past, enjoy the present, and imagine the future.🙏
