Karnataka is one of the most spiritually rich states in India. It is known for its ancient temples, beautiful architecture, and deep religious traditions. From grand Dravidian-style temples to peaceful hilltop shrines, Karnataka offers a divine experience for every devotee. The state is home to temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, Goddess Durga, Lord Hanuman, and Jain Tirthankaras. In this article, we will explore the most famous temples in Karnataka, their history, significance, and why they attract millions of devotees every year.

1. Shri Virupaksha Temple, Hampi

Location: Hampi, Vijayanagara District Dedicated to: Lord Shiva Virupaksha Temple is one of the oldest and most famous temples in Karnataka. Located in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Virupaksha. The temple dates back to the 7th century and gained prominence during the Vijayanagara Empire. The tall gopuram (tower), detailed carvings, and large temple complex reflect the glory of ancient Indian architecture. Why visit: Ancient Shiva temple still in active worship Located in historic Hampi Famous for festivals like Hampi Utsav

2. Chamundeshwari Temple, Mysuru

Location: Chamundi Hills, Mysuru Dedicated to: Goddess Chamundeshwari (Durga) Chamundeshwari Temple is one of the most important Shakti temples in Karnataka. Situated on Chamundi Hills, about 13 km from Mysuru city, the temple offers a divine atmosphere and scenic views. According to legend, Goddess Chamundeshwari killed the demon Mahishasura here, and Mysuru city is named after him. Why visit:

• One of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas (regional belief)
• Beautiful hilltop location
• Important during Navratri festival

3. Shri Krishna Temple, Udupi

Location: Udupi Dedicated toLord Krishna Udupi Krishna Temple is a famous Vaishnavite temple and an important pilgrimage center in South India. The temple was established by Saint Madhvacharya in the 13th century. The unique feature of this temple is the Kanakana Kindi, a small window through which devotees view Lord Krishna. Why visit:

• Famous for Udupi Krishna idol
• Center of Dvaita philosophy
• Known for free prasadam and Udupi cuisine

4. Murudeshwar Temple

**Location:**Murudeshwar, Uttara Kannada Dedicated to: Lord Shiva Murudeshwar Temple is famous for the second-tallest statue of Lord Shiva in the world, standing at 123 feet. The temple is located on the Arabian Sea coast, making it one of the most scenic temples in Karnataka. The temple is associated with the legend of Atma Linga and Ravana. Why visit:

• Giant Shiva statue
• Beautiful sea-facing temple
• Popular tourist and pilgrimage spot

5. Kukke Subramanya Temple

LocationDakshina Kannada Dedicated to: Lord Subramanya (Kartikeya) Kukke Subramanya Temple is one of the most powerful temples in Karnataka. It is especially famous for Sarpa Dosha and Naga Puja rituals. Surrounded by the Western Ghats and forests, the temple has a peaceful and spiritual environment. Why visit:

• Famous for snake-related dosha puja
• Located near Kumara Parvatha
• Important pilgrimage for devotees seeking relief from ancestral curses

6. Dharmasthala Manjunatha Temple

Location: Dharmasthala, Dakshina Kannada Dedicated to: Lord Shiva (Manjunatha) Dharmasthala Temple is unique because it is a Hindu temple managed by a Jain family. The temple is known for its strong values of charity, equality, and service. Every day, thousands of devotees are served free food (Anna Dana). Why visit:

• Famous for charity and social service
• Peaceful spiritual atmosphere
• Important Shiva pilgrimage center

7. Chennakesava Temple, Belur

Location: Belur, Hassan District Dedicated to: Lord Vishnu Chennakesava Temple is a masterpiece of Hoysala architecture. Built in the 12th century by King Vishnuvardhana, the temple is famous for its detailed stone carvings. Every sculpture tells a story from Hindu epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata. Why visit:

• Architectural wonder
• UNESCO World Heritage Site (with Halebidu)
• Important Vaishnava temple

8. Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu

LocationHalebidu, Hassan District Dedicated to: Lord Shiva Hoysaleswara Temple is another gem of Hoysala architecture. The temple walls are covered with thousands of intricate carvings showing gods, goddesses, animals, and scenes from Hindu scriptures. Though partially damaged, the temple remains a symbol of Karnataka’s rich heritage. Why visit:

• Detailed stone carvings
• Historic Shiva temple
• Near Belur, ideal for heritage tours

9. Banashankari Amma Temple

Location: Badami, Bagalkot District Dedicated to: Goddess Banashankari Banashankari Temple is one of the oldest temples in Karnataka, dedicated to a fierce form of Goddess Parvati. The temple is especially popular during Banashankari Jatre, held annually. Why visit:

• Ancient Shakti temple
• Strong local devotion
• Near Badami cave temples

10. Sringeri Sharada Peetham

Location: Sringeri, Chikkamagaluru District Dedicated to: Goddess Saraswati Sringeri Sharada Peetham was established by Adi Shankaracharya and is one of the four main Advaita Vedanta monasteries in India. The temple is located on the banks of the Tunga River and is a center of learning, spirituality, and peace. Why visit:

• Important spiritual center
• Peaceful river-side temple
• Strong connection to Advaita philosophy

11. Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple

Location: Gokarna, Uttara Kannada Dedicated to: Lord Shiva Gokarna is a sacred town and an important Shiva pilgrimage site. Mahabaleshwar Temple houses the powerful Atma Linga, believed to be given by Lord Shiva himself. Gokarna is often called the “Kashi of the South.” Why visit:

• One of the most sacred Shiva temples
• Spiritual beach town
• Important for ancestral rituals

12. ISKCON Temple, Bengaluru

Location: Rajajinagar, Bengaluru Dedicated to: Lord Krishna ISKCON Temple in Bengaluru is one of the largest ISKCON temples in the world. It combines modern architecture with traditional devotion. The temple is very popular among youth and spiritual seekers. Why visit:

• Well-maintained modern temple
• Daily kirtans and Bhagavad Gita teachings
• Peaceful environment in a busy city

Karnataka is special because it welcomes all paths of spirituality—Shaivism, Vaishnavism, Shaktism, Jainism, and Advaita Vedanta. The state has temples ranging from ancient rock-cut shrines to grand modern temples. Major festivals like Maha Shivaratri, Navratri, Janmashtami, and Deepavali are celebrated with great devotion across temples.

• October to March: Best weather for temple visits

• Festival seasons: Navratri, Shivaratri, Janmashtami

• Early mornings: Best for peaceful darshan

Karnataka is truly a land of temples and timeless devotion. From the ancient ruins of Hampi to the coastal beauty of Murudeshwar and the spiritual calm of Sringeri, every temple tells a story of faith, history, and culture. Whether you are a devotee, a history lover, or a spiritual traveler, visiting the famous temples in Karnataka offers a deeply enriching experience. These temples not only connect you to God but also to India’s glorious heritage.