Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple - One of the oldest Temples of Karnataka

Everyone knows Nandi Hills as a popular picnic spot. But Bhoga Nandeeshwara temple is unknown to many people though it is situated at the foothills of Nandi Hills. We have visited Nandi Hills many times earlier but never thought of visiting this temple. Only after seeing its beauty in a movie we decided to visit this temple. We started at 1.30 PM from home and reached the temple at 2.45 PM. Finding out the temple was easy as we can see direction boards along road side.
Bhoga Nandeeshwara temple is one of the oldest temples of Karnataka. History says that temple was built in 9th century by Bana queen Ratnavali. The temple then underwent many additions and modifications by five dynasties that ruled here - Gangas, Cholas, Hoysalas, Pallavas and Vijayanagara Kings. Though originally built in Dravidian Architecture temple bears the architectural styles of these five dynasties.
When we entered the temple compound I was surprised. It didnt look like a temple but it looked like a huge park with many big trees, flowering plants and green lawns.People were sitting and chating on the ground, childrens were playing in the lawn. We were confused and asked someone where exactly the temple is. He showed us the pathway which leads to the temple complex.

Temple Courtyard

Temple complex is large and magnificent housing three small temples inside - Arunachaleshwara temple, Umamaheshwara temple and Bhoga Nandeeshwara temple.  Arunachaleshwara represents the childhood of  Lord Shiva, Bhoga Nandeeshwara depicts youthful phase of Lord Shiva and Umamaheshwara temple depicts the wedding scenes between Shiva and Parvati.

Architectural attractions of the temple :
Temple itself is a fine example of Dravidian and Hoysala Architecture. Temple also offers many architectural attractions.  

Kalyani (Shringi Teertha) : 
Another portion of the temple has a large water pond (Kalyani) called Shringi Teertha/Shringeri Teertha. This Kalyani is surrounded by rock carved steps. This entire structure is surrounded by stone carved pillars giving it a fort look. Kalyani is a favorite spot for photographers and a popular location for for cinema shooting. You must have seen this Kalyani in numerous Kannada films especially in songs.  My son really enjoyed the serene beauty of Kalyani. Sitting on those steps he started playing happily and was reluctant to come back. 

Temple Kalyani

Kalyana Mantapa (Marriage Hall) :
Kalyana Mantapa was constructed by Hoysalas in the temple complex. So it is in Hoysala architecture style. Pillars of Kalyana Mantapa are beautifully carved. On the pillars we can see structures of divine couple like Shiva-Parvati, Brahma-Saraswati, Vishnu-Lakshmi, Agni Deva-Swaha Devi etc. Also we can see carvings of animals, birds, creepers etc. Now also many weddings take place here. Infront of this Kalyana Mantapa there is enoughg place to sit and watch wedding rituals. 

Kalyana Mantapa

Stone Umbrella :
In the temple prakara we can see a beautifully carved tall and attractive stone umbrella.

Stone wheels of chariot :
In the courtyard near the temple entrance, we can see eight stone wheels of the temple chariot. These wheels are beautifully carved and colorful.

Stone Wheels Of the Chariot

Mahanavami Dibba :
In the courtyard of temple we can see a small hill like structure with stone pillars. It is called Mahanavami Dibba. 

Mahanavami Dibba

We relaxed in the courtyard for few minutes before leaving. Visit to this temple turned out to be a good weekend getaway. Sir M Vishweshwarayya's birth place Muddenahalli is also near to this place. So one can club Nandi Hills, Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple and Muddenahalli for a perfect weekend getaway.