Nanjundeshwara Temple, located in the serene town of Nanjangud near Mysuru in Karnataka, is one of the most sacred and ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Revered as Dakshina Kashi (Kashi of the South), this temple holds immense religious, historical, and cultural significance for devotees from across South India and beyond. Nestled on the banks of the Kapila River, the temple is not only a spiritual center but also a symbol of Karnataka's rich architectural and devotional heritage.
Temple About:
Nanjundeshwara Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Nanjundeshwara, meaning "the God who consumed poison" during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean). The temple is a major pilgrimage site with roots stretching back to centuries of dynastic patronage.
Temple Description:
Built in classic Dravidian style, the temple features a majestic gopuram (tower), vast courtyards, and finely carved pillars. The temple's Shiva Linga is believed to be swayambhu (self-manifested). Historical inscriptions from Chola, Hoysala, and Wodeyar eras highlight its rich legacy.
Temple Specialty:
Lord Nanjundeshwara is believed to cure ailments, especially eye and skin diseases.
Worshipped by Tipu Sultan, who donated a Lingam after his elephant was healed.
Popular for the Dodda Jathre (Chariot Festival).
Believed to offer relief from doshas and sins when bathed in the Kapila River.
Temple Address:
Sri Nanjundeshwara Temple,
Nanjangud, Mysuru District,
Karnataka – 571301, India
Temple Location (Latitude, Longitude):
12.1189° N, 76.6845° E
Temple Timings:
6:00 AM to 1:00 PM
4:00 PM to 9:00 PM(May vary during festivals)
Temple Sevas:
Rudrabhisheka
Panchamrutha Abhisheka
Archana
Special poojas on Mondays and Maha Shivaratri
Traveling Facilities:
Excellent connectivity by road, rail, and air.
KSRTC buses, cabs, autos from Mysuru and nearby towns.
Food Facilities:
Free Annadana (community meals) at the temple.
Vegetarian restaurants available in town.
Stay Facilities:
Temple guesthouses and lodges nearby.
Comfortable hotels available in Nanjangud and Mysuru.
Nearby Railway Station:
Nanjangud Town Railway Station (~2 km)
Nearby Airport:
Mysuru Airport – 25 km
Bengaluru Airport – 175 km
Nearby Bus Station:
KSRTC Bus Stand, Nanjangud
Bus Routes to Temple:
Direct buses from Mysuru, Bengaluru, Chamarajanagar, Ooty
Train Routes to Temple:
From Mysuru and Bengaluru via Nanjangud Town
Airways to Temple:
Flights to Mysuru or Bengaluru, followed by road/train
Nearby Cities:
Mysuru (23 km)
Chamarajanagar (38 km)
Ooty (120 km)
Bengaluru (170 km)
Nearby Visiting Temples & Tourist Spots:
Chamundeshwari Temple, Mysuru
Somanathapura Hoysala Temple
Mysore Palace
Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangapatna
Bandipur Wildlife Sanctuary
Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta
Preferable Visiting Season:
October to March (pleasant weather)
Shivaratri and festival times for a divine experience
Shopping Famous For:
Nanjangud Rasabale (banana)
Incense sticks, wooden carvings, and sandalwood products
Silk sarees and handicrafts from Mysuru
A visit to the Nanjundeshwara Temple is not just a religious journey, but a soulful experience filled with devotion, history, culture, and tradition. Its sacred ambiance, healing beliefs, and scenic riverside setting make it a must-visit destination for pilgrims and travelers alike. Whether you're seeking blessings, peace, or heritage – Nanjangud warmly welcomes you with divine grace.
