The Temples of Karnataka are surrounded by peace and serenity. The presence of a number of temples in this state is witness to its religious fervor. Some of them are very old in terms of age. These are distinguished by the features of complicated sculpture, the rock-cut temples and ancient temple complexes. Surprisingly, these temples have survived till date in spite of the difficulties they faced. The architectural designs of the temples of
Karnataka have created a perfect atmosphere of devotion for the spiritual accomplishment.
The temples always attract people across the world. Pilgrimage centers such as Mookambika and Udupi cradled in the Western Ghats offer a contrast to the ruins of the once grand Vijayanagar edifices at Hampi. Hampi is a listed World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It allures countless number of tourists because of its monolithic sculptures, temples and remarkable monuments. The outstanding structure of the temples mirrors the touch of the typical Hindu architecture. The Hoysala temples marked with a profusion of intricate sculpture, and the ancient temples built by the Cholas, and the Chalukyan temples add to the variation in style all over this state as well.
The vast sculpture, the rock-cut cave temples and the old temple architecture of Karnataka have proved their might to resist the rigors of rain and sun. Monuments from the 7th century and the cave temples of Badami constructed by the Chalukyas, the 10th century colossal Gomateshwara monolithic statue and the great temples of Halebid, Somanathapura and Belur, with their beautiful carvings are still saying the tales of the past. Bull Temple is one of the famous temples of Karnataka located in Bangalore. The major attraction is the image of Nandi, Lord Shiva`s Bull. It is 4.57meter high and 6.10meter long. Another important temple of Karnataka is the Iskcon Temple, situated in Bangalore. This temple is frequented by pilgrims throughout the year from different parts of India as well as from various parts of the world.
Some of the renowned Temples of Karnataka are Atmalinga temple of Gokarna, early 15th century Hazara Ram Temple, Ugra Narsimha Temple of Hampi, Bull temple at Bangalore with a gigantic statue of Nandi Bull, the cave temple of Hidimbeshwara, Chennakeshava Temple, Hidimbeshwar Temple, etc.
Karnataka is well known for its multitude temples and tourist attractions. The Temples of Karnataka present an environment of peace and harmony. These present a distinct architectural design of the Dravidians. Devotees throng the temples in large numbers to worship the deities.