Sri Yoga Narasimha Swamy Temple, Melukote

Karnataka, Mandya, Bengaluru

Situated under the Pandavpura Taluk in the Mandya district of Karnataka, the impressive temple of Yoga Narasimha Temple at Melukote stands atop hill at a height of 1777 metres above the sea level. The majestic temple is dedicated to Lord Narasimha. The temple houses an idol of Narasimha in a seated position with the Yogapatta. The temple is considered to be one of the seven holy centres devoted to the worship of Narasimha. The temple was built during the Hoysala kingdom. The beauty and religious significance of the temple has always fascinated the common people and the royalty alike. The temple has a huge drum that was donated by Tipu Sultan. It has a beautiful bell that was donated by the Mysore Parakalamatha. During the rule of the erstwhile Wodeyar Kings of Mysore, Krishnaraja Wodeyar III had donated a gold crown to the temple deity.

Legend

The temple has numerous legends associated with it. One of the most famous beliefs about the temple is that the idol of the deity Narasimha was installed by Prahalada, son of Hiranyakashapu himself. It is also believed that the temple finds reference in the Vedic literature that dates back to thousands of years.

Architecture

The temple boasts of an impressive architecture. There are around 300 steps that lead to the temple situated high up on the hill. The intricate carvings on the pillars and the overall structure of the temple offer a glimpse into the architectural style of the bygone era. The top of the temple is visible from afar due to its height.

Picture courtesy: commons.wikimedia.org

Darsan Info

Temple timings : 9.00 AM to 8.00 PM
Darshan timing is from 11.00 AM to 1.00 PM in the morning and from 5.30 PM to 8.00 PM in the evening.

Darsan Dresscode

Clean and conservative clothing is preferred.

Famous Festival

Narasimha Jayanthi

Culture

Melkote, a religious and a pilgrim centre for Hindus, is located in Mandya district of Karnataka state in India. This place is very well known for various famous temples. A festival called Vairamudi takes place here when devotees come from all parts of India. Daily cultural activities like devotional songs, classical dances take place in the Chaluvanarayana swamy temple premesis. This place is also a well known location to film makers for shooting as the surrounding contains lot of scenic areas.