If you ask me about temples in Karnataka, I honestly won’t know where to start, because this state feels like one long spiritual trail. From quiet hilltop shrines to grand stone wonders, the famous temples in Karnataka carry stories, faith, and history all mixed together.
Some are ancient, some deeply personal, some you stumble upon by accident while travelling. In this blog, I’m sharing a handpicked list of ancient and historical temples in Karnataka, places people call Karnataka mandir, not just to pray, but to pause, breathe, and feel something real.
Famous & Ancient Temples in Karnataka You Must Visit
Karnataka doesn’t just have temples, it has time machines made of stone. Some are loud with chants, some are silent except for the wind, and some just sit there watching centuries pass. These famous temples in Karnataka are not only places of worship, but also pieces of history, art, and everyday life. Let’s start with one of the most powerful and oldest among them.
1. Virupaksha Temple, Hampi
If there’s one temple that truly defines historical temples in Karnataka, it has to be the Virupaksha Temple in Hampi. Standing tall on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, this temple doesn’t feel like a monument, it feels alive. Locals walk in barefoot every morning, priests chant like they’ve done for centuries, and the massive gopuram quietly reminds you how old this place really is.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva (Virupaksha), this temple dates back to the 7th century and is still actively worshipped, which honestly makes it even more special. Walking inside, you’ll notice worn stone floors, ancient carvings, and a calm that just slows you down, without trying.
- Entry Fee: Free for temple darshan & Small fee for camera inside certain areas
- Temple Timings: 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM & 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Best Time to Visit:
- October to February (pleasant weather, easier to explore Hampi ruins)
- Early mornings are magical, less crowd, more peace
Why it stands out:
- One of the oldest functioning temples in India
- Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi
- Perfect mix of devotion, history, and raw beauty
Honestly, Virupaksha Temple doesn’t shout for attention. It just stands there, quietly confident and somehow, that stays with you long after you leave.
2. Chennakeshava Temple, Belur
The Chennakeshava Temple in Belur is not just one of the famous temples in Karnataka, it’s pure celebration carved in stone. Built in 1117 AD, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and honestly, it feels more like a grand stage than a quiet shrine. There’s movement everywhere — dancers frozen mid-step, musicians caught forever playing, stories running across the walls.
This temple took over 100 years to complete, and you can tell. Every pillar is different, every sculpture has personality. The famous madanika (bracket figures) are so expressive that you forget they’re stone. Even if you’re not religious, this place pulls you in.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Temple Timings: 6:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March (pleasant weather)
- Early morning or evening for softer light and fewer people
Why it stands out:
- One of the finest historical temples in Karnataka
- Masterpiece of Hoysala architecture
- Sculptures that feel alive, not decorative
3. Mallikarjuna Temple, Pattadakal
The Mallikarjuna Temple in Pattadakal feels calm, grounded, and quietly powerful. Built in the 8th century during the Chalukya period, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and stands as a reminder of how architectural styles once met and blended. Pattadakal itself is special. It’s where North Indian (Nagara) and South Indian (Dravidian) temple styles come together, and this temple shows that mix perfectly.
Unlike crowded temple towns, this place feels open and peaceful. You walk slowly, noticing the balanced structure, detailed carvings, and the sense of symmetry everywhere. It’s one of those ancient temples in Karnataka where history speaks softly, not loudly.
Entry Fee:
- Part of Pattadakal complex ticket
- Indians: approx. ₹40
Foreigners: approx. ₹600
Temple Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Why it stands out:
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Rare blend of Nagara and Dravidian architecture
- Important historical temple in Karnataka
4. Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebeedu
The Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebeedu is one of those places where you forget to talk. You just keep looking. Built in the 12th century, this Shiva temple feels less like a temple and more like a stone storybook. Every wall, pillar, and corner is covered with carvings so detailed that you wonder how human hands even did this.
This is one of the most important ancient temples in Karnataka, and also among the finest examples of Hoysala architecture. The temple has two shrines, both dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the soapstone used here gives the carvings a soft, almost alive look.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Temple Timings: 6:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March (cool weather, perfect for slow exploration)
- Late afternoon light makes the carvings look unreal
Why it stands out:
- One of the most detailed historical temples in Karnataka
- Thousands of carvings depicting gods, dancers, animals, and everyday life
- Calm, uncrowded, and deeply moving
5. Gomateshwara Temple, Shravanabelagola
The Gomateshwara Temple at Shravanabelagola is one of the most important Jain pilgrimage sites in South India. Often called the city of temples and ponds, Shravanabelagola is known for its calm, water bodies, and spiritual stillness. At the centre of it all stands the 58-foot monolithic statue of Gomateshwara (Bahubali), the largest free-standing monolithic statue in the world.
Carved in 981 AD, the statue represents Bahubali, the second son of Rishabhanatha, the first Jain Tirthankara. What makes this site truly special is the Mahamashtakabhisheka, a grand anointing ceremony held once every 12 years, where the statue is bathed with milk, saffron, sandalwood paste, and flowers. Pilgrims from across the world gather for this event, and the scale is unforgettable.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Temple Timings: 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Best Time to Visit: During Mahamashtakabhisheka years for a once-in-a-lifetime experience
Why it stands out:
- Largest monolithic statue in the world
- One of the most sacred Jain temples in Karnataka
- Major pilgrimage site with deep historical roots
6. Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangapatna
The Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangapatna is one of the most important Vaishnava religious landmarks in Karnataka. Built around 1210 AD during the Hoysala period, this temple is dedicated to Lord Ranganatha (a reclining form of Lord Vishnu), resting on Adiśesha, the sacred serpent. Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped here as Ranganayaki, seated near Vishnu’s feet, a detail that holds deep symbolic meaning in Vaishnavism.
Located on an island formed by the River Kaveri, this temple is part of the sacred Pancharanga Kshetras, five major Ranganatha temples along the Kaveri. Architecturally, it reflects a blend of Hoysala and Vijayanagara influences, with a tall gopuram, pillared halls, and a serene inner sanctum that feels deeply meditative.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Temple Timings: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM & 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Best Time to Visit: Vaikuntha Ekadashi is especially significant here
Why it stands out:
- One of the earliest Ranganatha temples in South India
- Important stop in the Pancharanga pilgrimage circuit
- Strong historical and religious connection to the Kaveri belt
7. Mahabaleshwar Temple, Gokarna
The Mahabaleshwar Temple in Gokarna is one of the oldest historical temples in Karnataka, dating back to around 365 CE, built by King Mayura Sharma. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it’s a classic example of Dravidian-style architecture. What makes this temple unique is the ritual of bathing in the sea water before entering, connecting devotees directly with nature and purification.
Inside the temple complex, there are shrines for Thamira Gowri, Ganpati, Chandikeswara, Gokaneshwari, Adi Ganpati, and Dattatreya, making it a complete spiritual experience. The temple is a significant pilgrimage site, attracting devotees from all over South India, especially during Mahashivaratri.
Temple Timings:
6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Why it stands out:
- One of the oldest temples in Karnataka (4th century)
- Dravidian architectural style with multiple shrines
- Unique purification ritual with sea water before darshan
8. Sri Krishna Temple, Udupi
The Sri Krishna Temple in Udupi is one of the most important Vaishnava temples in Karnataka, founded in the 13th century by Sri Madhvacharya, the proponent of Dvaita philosophy. The temple is famous for its unique darshan through the Kanakana Kindi, a small silver window through which devotees view Lord Krishna.
The temple complex includes Chandrashala houses, traditionally used to accommodate scholars, priests, and pilgrims, reflecting Udupi’s long connection with learning and spiritual discourse. Another striking feature is the large Hanuman (Anjaneya) idol, placed near the temple, symbolising strength and unwavering devotion. The temple follows a strict worship system and is also known for its disciplined temple administration.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Temple Timings: 4:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Why it stands out:
- Unique darshan through Kanakana Kindi
- Strong philosophical roots in Dvaita Vedanta
- One of the most visited famous temples in Karnataka
9. Manjunatha Temple, Dharmasthala
The Manjunatha Temple in Dharmasthala is one of Karnataka’s most revered temples, with a history of over 800 years. Dedicated to Lord Shiva (Manjunatha), it is unique because the priests are Vaishnavite Madhwas, blending traditions in a remarkable way. The temple complex also includes a large Anjaneya (Hanuman) shrine and beautiful water tanks, making it a spiritual hub for devotees.
Architecturally, it shows influences of Kerala-style temple design, with sloping tiled roofs, wooden carvings, and a peaceful courtyard. Dharmasthala is also famous for its charitable trusts, feeding thousands of pilgrims every day, which adds a warm, human touch to the sacred experience.
Temple Timings: 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM & 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Why it stands out:
- Over 800 years old Karnataka mandir
- Unique Shiva worship by Vaishnavite priests
- Kerala-style architecture and charitable traditions
10. Mookambika Temple, Kollur
The Mookambika Temple in Kollur is one of the most sacred Shakti peethas in Karnataka. Nestled between the Western Ghats and the Souparnika River, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Mookambika, believed to be an avatar of Goddess Durga. According to legend, the goddess defeated the demon Mookasura, restoring balance and knowledge, which is why she is also associated with wisdom and learning.
What makes this temple spiritually unique is that the deity is worshipped as a union of Shakti and Shiva, symbolising both power and consciousness. The temple has long been linked to Adi Shankaracharya, who is believed to have installed the idol here. Despite being a major pilgrimage site, the atmosphere remains surprisingly calm and grounded.
Entry Fee:
- Free
- Special darshan available at extra cost
Temple Timings:
- 5:00 AM – 1:30 PM
- 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March (pleasant weather)
Early mornings for peaceful darshan
Why it stands out:
- One of the most powerful Karnataka mandirs dedicated to the Goddess
- Strong mythological connection to Mookasura
- Important centre for devotees seeking knowledge and clarity
11. Badami Cave Temples, Badami
The Badami Cave Temples are among the most remarkable historical temples in Karnataka, located in the small town of Badami in Bagalkot district. Carved into red sandstone cliffs between the 6th and 8th centuries, these caves reflect architectural grandeur and religious diversity.
The complex consists of four main cave temples: three dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, and one devoted to Jainism, showcasing the harmonious coexistence of different faiths during the Chalukya period. Intricate carvings, pillars, and sculptures cover the walls, narrating epic stories like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, making it a visual feast for history and art lovers alike.
Entry Fee:
- Indians: ₹40
- Foreigners: ₹600
Temple Timings:
Why it stands out:
- One of Karnataka’s oldest cave temple complexes
- Combines Hindu and Jain religious heritage
- Masterpiece of Chalukya rock-cut architecture
12. Kukke Shri Subramanya Temple, Karnataka
The Kukke Shri Subramanya Temple is a renowned Hindu pilgrimage site in Karnataka, dedicated to Lord Subramanya, an incarnation of Lord Kartikeya. According to Hindu mythology, the serpent king Vasuki and other serpents prayed to Lord Subramanya here when threatened by Garuda, the legendary bird-like creature.
In order to prepare and purify themselves spiritually, devotees customarily bathe in the River Kumaradhara before entering. The Sarpa Dosha ceremony, which is carried out to eliminate the affects of doshas associated to snakes, is the temple’s most well-known feature. The temple’s exquisite architecture has a silver-plated pillar between the entrance and the shrine, which is supposed to shield worshippers from Vasuki’s deadly breath. Intricately carved statues of Subramanya with Vasuki and Shesha are displayed inside on the pedestal.
Why it stands out:
- Important site for Sarpa Dosha remedies
- Unique architectural features including silver-plated protective pillar
- Deep mythological significance tied to serpents and Lord Subramanya
13. Murudeshwar Shiva Temple, Murudeshwar
The Murudeshwar Shiva Temple is a major Hindu pilgrimage centre in Karnataka, famous for its 123-feet tall Shiva statue, the second tallest Lord Shiva statue in the world. This iconic statue sits atop Kuduka Hill, surrounded on three sides by the majestic Arabian Sea, creating a breathtaking view you won’t forget.
The temple also features a 20-story Raja Gopura, offering panoramic views of the statue and surroundings. A lift inside the gopura makes it easy for devotees to enjoy the sight. The main deity is Shri Midesa Linga, believed to be part of an Atma Linga, making the site spiritually significant.
- Entry Fee: Free (Raja Gopura lift has nominal charge)
- Temple Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Why it stands out:
- One of the most iconic Shiva temples in Karnataka
- Second tallest Shiva statue in the world
- Unique combination of sea, hill, and temple architecture
Conclusion
Karnataka is truly a treasure trove of temples, history, and spirituality. From the towering Shiva statue at Murudeshwar to the serene Gomateshwara at Shravanabelagola, and from the architectural marvels of Hoysaleswara and Chennakeshava to mystical sites like Kukke Subramanya, each temple tells its own story.
Whether you seek devotion, history, or sheer beauty, these famous temples in Karnataka offer a journey that touches both heart and soul. Pack your curiosity, your camera, and get ready to explore, the state’s sacred wonders are waiting.
List of Most Famous Temples in Karnataka FAQs:
1. What are the most famous temples in Karnataka?
Some of the most famous temples in Karnataka include Virupaksha Temple (Hampi), Hoysaleswara Temple (Halebeedu), Chennakeshava Temple (Belur), Gomateshwara Temple (Shravanabelagola), Murudeshwar Shiva Temple, Kukke Shri Subramanya Temple, and Mahabaleshwar Temple (Gokarna), among others.
2. Which is the largest temple statue in Karnataka?
The Murudeshwar Shiva Statue is the tallest in Karnataka at 123 feet, and the Gomateshwara statue in Shravanabelagola is the largest monolithic statue in the world at 58 feet.
3. Are there ancient temples in Karnataka still open for worship?
Yes, temples like Virupaksha Temple (Hampi, 7th century), Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple (Srirangapatna, 1210 AD), and Hoysaleswara Temple (12th century) are centuries old and still actively worshipped.
4. What is the best time to visit temples in Karnataka?
The ideal period is generally October to March, when the weather is cooler and comfortable for exploring historic and hilltop temples.
5. Do Karnataka temples have entry fees?
Most temples like Virupaksha, Chennakeshava, and Murudeshwar are free, while heritage complexes like Badami Cave Temples may have a nominal fee for tourists.
