Ghati Subramanya

One cannot abstain its structure even from a distance. The temple is the main landmark in the area, attracting devotees from across the state and the region. It also receives a cattle fair aside from many festivals and rituals.

The temple is believed to be more than 600 years old, according to the written records, while its origin might go back many more years. The development of the GhatiSubramanya temple is connected to Ghorpade, who referred to the Sandur dynasty. It is believed that the deity appeared in the dreams of the king, revealing the whereabouts of the idols. The king, with the aid of the locals, found the self-manifested idol of the deity and then commissioned a temple to be built around them.

The high pyramid-shaped gateway pillar of the temple is one of the most notable features, a perfect example of Dravidian design. Different deities and events of Hindu mythology are decorated here. It is believed that the idols have always been being here, and according to the myth, the idols of Karthikeya and Narasimha rose from the ground and the temple was developed around it. There is an anthill which is opposite the temple and devotees spill milk on it as part of one of the routines.

One of the distinctive features of this temple is that one can observe two deities here – Lord Subramanya and Lord Narasimha. The idols are found in the sanctum of the temple. The image of Lord Subramanya, in his serpentine form, fronts the east while the idol of Lord Narasimha lies at the back of the former and fronts the west. Devotees can observe the idol of Lord Narasimha through a strategically located mirror, allowing both deities to be worshipped at the very time. The idol of Lord Subramanya or Karthikeya is formed from a single stone

It is understood that on this point, the deity Lord Subramanya was performing repentance in the form of a snake. Lord Subramanya prayed to Lord Narasimha to provide the Naga’s family from Lord Vishnu’s vehicle, the Garuda, known for his dislike towards serpents. Lord Subramanya’s form is that of a seven-hooded snake and it is believed that this is the region where he vanquished Ghatikasura, the demon

The GhatiSubramanya temple is one of the most major spots for snake worship in Southern India. Brahmarathotsava is one of the great days at the temple, marked with special rituals. Another important celebration at the GhatiSubramanya temple is NarasimhaJayanti. In December, this temple gives the venue for a fair. From nearby states like Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Kerala many farmers, cattle rearers and traders appear for this cattle fair accompanying with people from all over Karnataka. Some of the important rituals that can be done at the temple bear KujaDosha, Naga Pratistha, SarpaDosha and Nivarana Puja. It is a firm understanding of devotees that the temple should be encouraged by childless pair so that they may be able to conceive. Another ritual followed here is the installation of snake idols near the temple, which is believed to be an auspicious act and offers. Visitors to the temple are welcomed with the view of thousands of such idols around the complex, planted by devotees.

DoddaballapuraTaluk is the main hub around the temple and Bangalore is the closest city.

The nearest terminal to the temple is the Bangalore International Airport, which is 48 kilometres away. From the airport, the most comfortable route would be the NH648 and the journey time would be a little over an hour.

The most imminent railway station is in Bangalore city, 60 kilometres away. From the City Railway station, one has to cross via the Bellary Road to arrive the temple, a course of around 90 minutes to 2 hours.

Bellary Road is the principal arterial road that connects GhatiSubramanya temple to the urban areas around it. From the centre of Bangalore, the way to the temple is around 61 kilometres. If one is going by bus, then some buses pass through Doddaballapura, where local transport needs to be arranged to cover the remaining short distance to the temple. A short trip from the city will amaze you with many architectural and spiritual marvels that have been the nerve centres of the local culture for ages. Step out and enjoy a holiday to the GhatiSubramanya temple, nestled close to the historic Makalidurga Hills.