Weather: 19 - 23°C
Time Required: 1-2 hrs
Entry Fee: INR 150 per person
Timings: Open 24 hours
Also Known As: Kempfort Shiva Temple
Overview
The Shiva Temple at Kemp Fort, one of Bangalore's most revered religious sites, is famous for its stunning architecture and peaceful ambiance. The temple is home to a majestic 65-foot statue of Lord Shiva carved from white marble, surrounded by a water pool, symbolizing Lord Shiva's natural habitat. A statue of Lord Ganapathi adds to the spiritual aura of the temple. Regular prayers, aartis, and mantras are offered by the priests, creating a tranquil atmosphere for devotees.
Unique Features
- Shiva's Natural Habitat: The temple features a large marble monolith of Lord Shiva, placed in an artificial pool surrounded by rocks symbolizing the Himalayas and Mount Kailasa.
- Sacred Shiva Linga: The entrance is marked by a 25-foot tall Shiva Linga, symbolizing the divine form of the deity.
- Navgraha Temple: Inside, a temple dedicated to the nine planets of the solar system adds to the temple's uniqueness.
Rituals and Celebrations
- Regular Rituals: Daily rituals include bhajans, aartis, and abhishekam with milk and flowers.
- Maha Shivratri: The temple celebrates Maha Shivratri with grand festivities, drawing large crowds for prayer and worship.
- Devotional Offerings: Devotees can light diyas or tie threads while asking for divine blessings.
Visiting Tips
- Busy Days: Monday is especially crowded, with many devotees attending aarti.
- Beware of Extra Charges: Be cautious of individuals asking for money in exchange for temple access or ritual services.
How to Reach
Located on Old Airport Road, the temple is easily accessible by auto rickshaws or cabs from anywhere in Bangalore.
