The Vittala Temple or Vitthala Temple in Hampi is an ancient monument that is well-known for its exceptional architecture and unmatched craftsmanship.
The iconic temple has amazing stone structures such as the incomparable stone chariot and the fascinating musical pillars. This predominant monument of Hampi is a major attraction of the ruined town and is a must-see for visitors and tourists.
Tarakeshwara Temple | Hangal temple | Haveri | 12th century architectural marvel | Karnataka | India | Lord Shiva temple | Ancient Siva temple | Ancient temples of Karnataka | Ancient temples of India
Located in the otherwise unknown town of Hangal, the Tarakeshwara temple is truly a fine example of the architectural marvel of our medieval times. The temple which is dedicated to the Hindu god Lord Shiva is assigned to the mid-12th century A.D.
The name of the temple is derived from the Tarakeshwara form of Lord Shiva. Even though the credit of construction of this temple goes to the Kadambas, it was the Kalyani Chalukyas that made significant changes to make it into the form we see today.
Location :https://goo.gl/maps/D3teQMSe5yxaNiD66
History and Legend of Tarakeshwara temple
To begin with, the town of Hangal is believed to be the Viratnagar in the epic Mahabharat. Viratnagar is the place where the Pandavas took shelter in disguise during their Ajnatavas (Secluded living). The earliest known dynasty to have ruled the town of Hangal was Kadamba.
The Tarakeshwara temple was the most significant contribution of the Kadamba to the history of the town. With Jainism gaining massive appeal in the region in the 12th century, this temple became the bastion for the Shaivites (the section of believers who worshipped Lord Shiva).
It is interesting to note that the temple which is most prominently known for its architectural beauty also has a subtle element of engineering excellence associated with it.
How to reach :
By Air
The nearest airport is in Hubli. If you wish to travel by air, you may have to fly to Hubli and then catch a bus or private cab to Hangal.
By Road
Hangal has well-connected bus network to the other districts of Karnataka.
By Rail
The nearest railway station to the temple is the Haveri railway station which is approximately 40 kms from the temple.
Near by ancient temples/ Places :
1. Banavasi -Madhukeshwara temple - https://youtu.be/e-bFHklUV3o
2. Sirsi- Marikamba temple-https-://youtu.be/DOwIyT4eO98
3. Haveri-Siddeshwara temple -https://youtu.be/DxyjSXq9_2o
4. Unchalli falls - https://youtu.be/SJFZzsVw_HA
5. Ancient temples of Karnataka- https://youtu.be/S4-qe6zPiqA
" The city of Vijayanagar is such that the pupil of the eye has never seen a place like it & the ear of intelligence has never been informed that there existed anything to equal it in the world" - Persian Traveller (1442 AD)
The Vijayanagara empire lasted for little over two centuries and perished but still survives with the splendor in the minds of the visitor. Hampi is must visit place on planet in life time.
Please find 20 amazing places to visit at Hampi. However there are many more places to explore at Hampi.
1.KADALE KALU GANESHA
2.SASIVE KALU GANESHA
3. HEMAKUTA HILLS & TEMPLES
4.UNDERGROUND SHIVA TEMPLE
5.LOTUS MAHAL
6.ELEPHANTS STABLE
7.QUEENS BATH
8.MAHANAVAMI DIBBA
9.HAZARA RAMA TEMPLE
10.NARASIMHA
11.BADAVI LINGA
12.KODANDA RAMA TEMPLE
13.KRISHNA TEMPLE
14.MALYAVANTHA RAMA TEMPLE
15.ANJANADRI (For more detail click here https://youtu.be/d7SmdLrFMK4)
16. MATHANGA HILLS
17.ACHYUTARAYA TEMPLE
18.VITTHALA TEMPLE
19.KING’S BALANCE
20.VIRUPAKSHA TEMPLE (For more detail click here https://youtu.be/d_0VG8Qlvhc)
Click the link below:
#HampiHampi -20 amazing places at Hampi
