Temples in Bengaluru
Bengaluru is best known as a modern city, but it has old places of worship that go back to the city's founding in the 16th century. Many of the oldest are in Basavanagudi and Gavipuram in the south, while the large ISKCON complex stands on a hill in the north-west.
The best known are the Gavi Gangadhareshwara cave temple, the Bull Temple and ISKCON Temple. These are active places of worship, so dress modestly and follow each temple's rules.
Famous Temples in Bengaluru
Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple in Gavipuram is a cave temple dedicated to Shiva. It is known for a yearly event on Makar Sankranti in mid-January, when the evening sun shines between the horns of a stone Nandi and lights up the linga inside the cave. The temple has a strict dress code.
Dodda Basavana Gudi, better known as the Bull Temple, in Basavanagudi has a large Nandi carved from a single rock. It is the centre of the Kadalekai Parishe groundnut fair in November or December. The Dodda Ganapathi temple, with its large Ganesha, is close by.
ISKCON Temple on Hare Krishna Hill in Rajajinagar is a large Radha Krishna temple with a tall gold-topped tower and glass structures. The route through the complex takes you past halls, prasadam counters and shops.
St Mary's Basilica in Shivajinagar is one of the city's oldest churches and is worth a visit if you are near Commercial Street.
Tips for Visiting Temples in Bengaluru
- Wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. Shorts and sleeveless tops may be refused.
- Wear shoes that are easy to take off, and use the footwear counters.
- Do not take photos inside the shrines or prayer halls unless you are told it is allowed.
- Visit on a weekday morning for a calmer experience.
- Expect very large crowds at Gavi Gangadhareshwara on Makar Sankranti and at ISKCON on Janmashtami.
- Keep phones and bags secure in crowded queues.
- Respect people who are praying and follow the queue system.
Questions
Bengaluru — FAQ
What are the famous temples in Bengaluru?
The best-known temples are Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple, Dodda Basavana Gudi (the Bull Temple), Dodda Ganapathi Temple and ISKCON Temple.
What happens at Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple on Makar Sankranti?
On Makar Sankranti in mid-January, the evening sun passes between the horns of a stone Nandi and lights up the Shiva linga inside the cave for a few minutes. The temple is extremely crowded on this day.
Is there a dress code at Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple?
Yes. Shorts, mini-skirts, sleeveless tops and short T-shirts are not allowed. Men should wear trousers or a dhoti, and women a saree or salwar kameez with a dupatta. Visitors who do not follow it may be refused entry.
Can I take photos inside ISKCON Temple in Bengaluru?
Photos are not allowed inside the prayer halls, but you can take photos in the outer areas and of the temple towers from the approach steps.