Hindu Temples at Turuvekere near Tumkur in Karnataka

A murti of Nandi, the divine bull of Shiva, carved from soap stone is enough to make the journey to Turuvekere near Tumkur in Karnataka worthy. The town also has the rare temple in which Shiva and Ganga are worshipped together. Turuvekere is located around 128 km from Bangalore and houses the famous Gangadhareshwara Temple.

Gangadhareshwara Temple is dedicated to Shiva and is built in Dravidian style of architecture and is known for its exquisite carvings.

The Shivling worshipped in the temple is referred as Gangadhareswara – it has matted locks of Shiva with Ganga. Sun, mood and the 27 birth stars (Nakshatras) also adorn the Shivling. The utsava murti of Shiva (the murti taken out for procession and rituals) has an eye on the foot. Another highlight of the temple is the huge Nandi murti.

The temple complex also houses a shrine of Goddess Bhavani. The temple also has a rare sculpture of Bedara Kannapa.

Huge bell made using soap stone is another attraction.

Chennakeshava Temple located nearby is another important shrine. The temple is not looked after properly. The main murti in the temple is Vishnu as Chennakeshava – he holds a lotus and mace.

Another nearby temple is the Moole Shankareshwara Temple. It is located near a big lake. The temple is built on a star-shaped platform. The temple tower is built in Bhumija type found mainly in Maharashtra. The shrine is dedicated to Shiva.