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This was our second visit to Kolar, a small town located 68 Km from Bangalore in the state of Karnataka. During our first visit, we explored 2 unique temples, Kotilingeshwara and Avani temple, read more about these beautiful temples here A day outing from Bangalore – 10th Century Avani temple and kotilingeshwara temple, kolar

Popular for its gold fields (also known as KGF) , although the gold mines are not functional today, but kolar surely is gold mine of historical and architectural marvels specially beautifully carved temples. Just a day visit is not enough to explore all that this place has to offer.

During our second day outing to Kolar, we panned to visit 2 of the most popular temples in Kolar – Kolaramma Temple & Someshvara Temple. Although there were few more places which I read about, but we thought it would be better to take time and visit these places next time. 

Our journey from Bangalore started at 8 a.m in the morning , on the way we stopped by for breakfast at one of the many restaurants that we found on the way. After traditional south Indian breakfast and a strong filter coffee, it was time to move ahead. 

We reached Kolar at about 11.30 a.m. and our first pitstop was Kolaramma temple. Although not as magnificent and gigantic as Someshvara temple, this thousand year old temple has its own charm. There was hardly anybody in the temple apart from one or two local visitors.This beautiful and serene temple was build by Cholas and showcases dravidian architecture.  

Kolaramma is the presiding deity of the town and is worshipped in the form of Goddess Parvathi.  Chelamma (Scorpion Goddess) is another deity in the temple. People believe that by praying at the Chelamma shrine a person is guarded from Scorpion bites by the deity. 

Temple has some striking features including the inscriptions all over its walls. Unfortunately we couldn’t  find any guide to explain about the temple and related stories. Photography inside the premises of the temple is not allowed. Although at the entry there was an intriguing rock carving depicting the battle scene. 

After spending some time at the peaceful premises of the tempe, we headed towards our next destination – Someshvara temple. The two temples are located  next to each other. 

At the entrance itself a tall & ornate Gopura exhibited the architectural genius of Chola and Vijayanagar dynasty. The moment we entered inside the temple, huge Mukhamandapa (the main hall) with beautifully carved pillars welcomed up. It was almost noon, near the shrine of the presiding deity Someshvara ( Lord Shiva) a group of ladies were chanting mesmerising hymns filling the premises of, otherwise peaceful temple, with sweet melodies.  

After spending sometime in the tranquil atmosphere listening to the enchanting voices and whispering our wishes in the ears of Nandi idol outside the Sanctum, we proceeded to explore more of this 14th Century temple which is protected by the Archeological survey of India as a monument of national importance.

Next we reached the kalyan mandapa (marriage hall) which is located in the rear part of the temple. Having read about it before, I was really curious to see and I must say this was one of the most beautifully carved structure that I have seen. Four walls inside the Mandapa are made up of granite and are exquisite in their design. Temple architecture and carvings also has influence of Chinese , Thai and European Culture. 

Our next stop was at Shrine of Devi Parvathi, located at the other rear end of the temple. From this side we could more closely observe and admire the intricate designs and carvings of the temple wall along with the pillars. 

Visiting such historical places always make me wonder, how people during those day with limited resources, means and technology could create such wonders which are so perfect and symetrical.

Over all, we had great time visiting these 2 temples, and I highly recommend visiting them even if you are not into temple visits.. Because they have much more to offer !  

Few Handy tips

1. Start early in the morning , to avoid the crowd and heat. Being stone structure the floor gets really hot and uncomfortable to walk bare foot.
2. Get a good breakfast as with in the city we dint find much option.
3. Carry essentials like water bottle etc

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