Karnataka is a land of spiritual and architectural wonders. Travellers exploring temples in Karnataka can enjoy centuries-old Hoysala marvels, serene coastal shrines, and majestic hilltop sanctuaries. With Karnataka Tourism initiatives and thoughtfully designed Karnataka tour packages, visitors can experience each temple’s stories of devotion, culture, and artistry. These 10 famous temples provide a journey that beautifully blends heritage, spirituality, and natural beauty for every traveller.
1. Udupi Sri Krishna Temple
Udupi Sri Krishna Temple is a renowned shrine dedicated to Lord Krishna. Famous for its beautifully adorned idol and the grand Paryaya festival, it draws devotees from across the country. The temple complex also includes sub-shrines and a vibrant marketplace, offering a spiritual and cultural experience in a serene coastal setting for travellers and devotees alike.
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2. Vidyashankara Temple, Sringeri
Vidyashankara Temple in Sringeri is one of the most remarkable temples in Karnataka, blending Vijayanagara and Hoysala architectural styles. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it features intricately carved stone pillars and an astronomical alignment marking equinoxes. Surrounded by the lush Western Ghats, the temple offers a peaceful environment for meditation, photography, and spiritual reflection for travellers and devotees alike.
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3. Murudeshwar Shiva Temple, Bhatkal
Murudeshwar Shiva Temple is perched along the Arabian Sea and features a towering Shiva statue. Visitors enjoy breathtaking sea views and a spiritual ambience that combines devotion with natural beauty. Festivals, rituals, and the cliffside location make it a unique destination. The temple’s vibrant energy and scenic surroundings make it ideal for pilgrims and travellers exploring Karnataka.
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4. Vitthala Temple, Hampi
Vitthala Temple, part of Hampi’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its stone chariot and musical pillars. Surrounded by boulders and historic ruins, it is a perfect blend of architecture, history, and spirituality. The Vijayanagara-style carvings and intricate detailing make it a must-visit for travellers interested in cultural heritage, photography, and spiritual exploration in Karnataka.
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5. Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple
Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple is one of the most iconic temples in Karnataka, an ancient coastal shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and famous for the Atmalinga legend. Pilgrims visit for rituals, while travellers explore nearby beaches like Om Beach. Its blend of spiritual significance, scenic surroundings, and historic value makes it perfect for a serene cultural experience.
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6. Chennakeshava Temple, Belur
Chennakeshava Temple, a 12th-century Hoysala marvel, features intricately carved walls depicting gods, goddesses, and mythological scenes. The star-shaped platform and ornate pillars demonstrate extraordinary craftsmanship. Visitors can explore the peaceful temple grounds while admiring the architectural brilliance. Belur, along with Halebidu, forms a heritage corridor and remains a top destination for devotees, history lovers, and travellers in Karnataka.
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7. Kotilingeshwara Temple, Kolar
Kotilingeshwara Temple is one of the largest temples in Karnataka, famous for hosting over a million small Shivalingas along with a massive central Shivalinga. Devotees come for poojas and blessings, while travellers admire its scale and unique spiritual atmosphere. The expansive temple grounds offer a peaceful and contemplative experience for all visitors.
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8. Mallikarjuna Temple, Pattadakal
Mallikarjuna Temple, a Chalukya architectural gem, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Intricate carvings depict scenes from Hindu epics, showcasing exceptional artistry. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is surrounded by other historic monuments. The temple provides a serene environment for spiritual reflection, cultural exploration, and photography, attracting devotees and travellers interested in Karnataka’s rich heritage.
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9. Kedareshwara Temple, Balligavi
Kedareshwara Temple is a historic shrine in Balligavi dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its Chalukya-style architecture, ornate pillars, and sculpted walls create a peaceful ambience for spiritual reflection. The temple is set in a quaint town, allowing travellers to explore Karnataka’s rich temple heritage away from crowded tourist spots while enjoying the intricate carvings and serene surroundings.
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10. Durga Gudi Temple, Aihole
Durga Gudi Temple is a fortress-style shrine and one of the unique temples in Karnataka, dedicated to Goddess Durga. Its apsidal structure, elevated location, and sculpted pillars make it architecturally distinctive. Visitors enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and ancient ruins. This temple is ideal for travellers and devotees exploring Karnataka’s early Chalukyan heritage and spiritual architecture.
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1. Which are the most famous temples in Karnataka?
A. Udupi Sri Krishna Temple, Virupaksha Temple in Hampi, Chennakeshava Temple in Belur, Murudeshwar Shiva Temple, and Vitthala Temple are among the most visited. Each offers unique spiritual, historical, and architectural experiences, making them must-visit destinations for travellers and devotees alike.
2. What is the best time to visit temples in Karnataka?
A. The ideal time to visit Karnataka’s temples is from October to March. During these months, the weather is cooler and more comfortable, enhancing the experience of exploring the state’s rich spiritual heritage. Festivals like Dussehra and Krishna Janmashtami offer unique cultural and spiritual experiences.
3. Are there offbeat temples worth visiting in Karnataka?
A. Yes, Karnataka boasts several lesser-known temples that offer serene environments and architectural beauty. Temples such as Kedareshwara Temple in Balligavi, Durga Gudi Temple in Aihole, and Kotilingeshwara Temple in Kolar are perfect for those seeking spiritual exploration away from the usual tourist spots.
4. How many days are enough to explore the major temples in Karnataka?
A. A 7–10 day itinerary is recommended to comfortably visit the major temples across Karnataka. This duration allows travellers to experience the state’s rich spiritual, historical, and cultural heritage without feeling rushed, ensuring a fulfilling and memorable journey.
5. Can I plan a temple tour from Bangalore?
A. Absolutely. Bangalore serves as an excellent starting point for exploring temples in Karnataka. A 5-day road trip itinerary can cover key temples in Dharmasthala, Kukke Subramanya, Udupi, Sringeri, and Kollur, offering travellers a comprehensive spiritual and cultural experience across the state.
Also Read – Places To Visit in Karnataka
