Someshwara Temple Kolar

With its origins tracing back to the Chola period, the temple was built by Chola kings in the 11th century and later expanded under the Vijayanagara Empire during the 14th and 15th centuries.

Its historical and architectural grandeur makes it a must-visit destination for devotees and history enthusiasts alike.

The temple is conveniently located near the Kolaramma Devi Temple, just 200 meters away, and is easily accessible from the main road despite being situated in a narrow street within a residential area.

Pilgrims can reach Someshwara Temple Kolar by driving approximately 65–70 km from Bengaluru on NH 75, a journey that takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. From the Kolar KSRTC Bus Stand, the temple is a short 1.5 km auto-rickshaw ride.

The nearest railway stations are Kolar Railway Station (2 km) and Bangarpet Railway Station (15 km), while Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru is about 75 km away.

Devotees can participate in free darshan and attend various poojas, including the Morning Pooja, Evening Pooja, and the Palanquin Procession. Rituals are conducted in Kannada, Tamil, and Telugu, catering to a diverse group of pilgrims.

The temple observes a traditional dress code: men are recommended to wear dhoti or formal pants, and women are encouraged to wear saree or churidar, with decent covering expected.

The temple timings are as follows: Mondays from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM; Tuesday to Thursday from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM; and Friday to Sunday from 7:00 AM to 1:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM.

The best time to visit is during winter (November to February), especially in the morning between 8 AM and 12 PM or during the evening aarti.

Major festivals celebrated here include Maha Shivaratri (February-March), Karthika Deepotsava (November-December), the Annual Temple Festival/Rathotsava (January-February), and Navratri (September-October).

During festivals or by arrangement, Annadanam is organized, and prasadam such as vibhuti, sandalwood paste, and theertham is offered to devotees. Photography is permitted in the temple courtyard and for architectural features, but is restricted inside the sanctum sanctorum.

Visitors are advised to check photography rules at the entrance. Parking is available but limited. Nearby attractions include Anthargange Hills, Kurudumale Ganesha Temple, Avani Ramalingeshwara Temple, Kotilingeshwara Temple, and Chhota Ladakh (Dodda Ayur).

Accommodation options are limited to budget hotels and lodges in Kolar town, with more choices available in Bengaluru, 70 km away. For further information, visitors may contact the temple at +91 88615 68399.