Male Mahadeshwara Temple, located atop the Male Mahadeshwara Betta in Chamarajanagar district of Karnataka, is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in South India. Surrounded by dense forests and scenic hills, this ancient Shiva temple draws millions of devotees and travelers every year, thanks to its spiritual significance, folk legends, and tranquil natural setting. The temple is not only a place of worship but also a hub of local culture, traditions, and ecological beauty.
Temple About
Male Mahadeshwara Temple is a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, known here as Mahadeshwara. The temple is deeply connected to the legendary saint Mahadeshwara Swamy, believed to be an incarnation of Shiva.
Temple Description
Over 600 years old, the temple exhibits simple Dravidian-style architecture and houses a Shivalinga in the sanctum. Set amid hills and forests, the temple radiates peace and devotion.
Temple Specialty
Hilltop location (~3,000 feet elevation)
Associated with healing powers and folk miracles
Set inside a wildlife sanctuary
Major crowd-puller during Shivaratri and Ashada month
Temple Address
Male Mahadeshwara Temple,
Male Mahadeshwara Betta,
Hanur Taluk, Chamarajanagar District,
Karnataka – 571490, India.
Temple Location (Longitude and Latitude)
12.0031° N, 77.5805° E
Temple Timings
6:00 AM – 1:00 PM
3:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Temple Sevas
Rudrabhisheka
Mahamangalarathi
Annadana (free meals)
Special Pujas on Mondays and full moon days
Traveling Facilities
KSRTC and private buses available
Taxis and jeeps from Kollegal and Hanur
Parking available for private vehicles
Food Facilities
Free prasadam meals (Annadana)
Small eateries and local hotels nearby
Stay Facilities
Temple guest houses and dorms
Lodges in Hanur and Kollegal
Nearby Railway Station
Chamarajanagar (~85 km)
Mysuru (~130 km)
Nearby Airport
Mysuru Airport (MYQ) – ~140 km
Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), Bengaluru – ~220 km
Nearby Bus Station
Hanur (~30 km)
Kollegal (~60 km)
Bus Routes to Temple
KSRTC buses from Bengaluru, Mysuru, Chamarajanagar, Kollegal
Hanur to MM Hills via local buses/jeeps
Train Routes to Temple
Trains to Chamarajanagar or Mysuru, then road to temple
Airways to Temple
Fly to Mysuru or Bengaluru → road journey to MM Hills
Nearby Cities to Temple
Kollegal
Chamarajanagar
Mysuru
Bengaluru
Nearby Visiting Temples and Places
Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta
Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple (BR Hills)
M.M. Hills Wildlife Sanctuary
Hogenakkal Falls
Preferable Visiting Season
October to March – Ideal weather and festival season
Shopping Famous For
Forest honey, herbal products
Tribal crafts, wooden toys
Religious souvenirs
Male Mahadeshwara Temple is more than just a pilgrimage site it is a spiritual, cultural, and natural haven. With its mystical legends, divine presence, and beautiful surroundings, it offers a deeply fulfilling experience to devotees and travelers alike. Whether you seek divine blessings, natural peace, or cultural richness, a visit to MM Hills promises a memorable and meaningful journey.
