The Chandramouleshwara Temple is a famous ancient temple located in the town of Hubli in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is believed to have been constructed in the 9th century during the reign of the Chalukya dynasty, one of the most prominent dynasties in southern India.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism. It is renowned for its unique architectural style, a blend of the Chalukya, Hoysala, and Vijayanagara styles of architecture. The temple features intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various Hindu deities, mythological scenes, and other religious motifs.
One of the temple's most striking features is its towering gopura, or entrance gate, which stands around 100 feet. The gopura is adorned with intricate carvings of various gods and goddesses and is a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.
The temple complex also includes several smaller shrines dedicated to various deities, including Lord Ganesh, Lord Vishnu, and Goddess Parvati. Visitors can also see a large statue of Nandi, the sacred bull of Lord Shiva, located outside the main temple.
The temple is also home to an annual festival known as the Chandramouleshwara Fair, celebrated with great pomp and show. The temple is adorned with colourful decorations during the festival, and various cultural programs and performances are organized.
There are several other places to visit near the Chandramouleshwara Temple, including the Unkal Lake, a popular spot for boating and picnicking, and the ISKCON Hubli temple, known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance.
The Siddharoodha Math is a famous pilgrimage centre in Hubli. It is dedicated to the saint Siddharoodha Swamy and is known for its beautiful architecture and serene surroundings.}
Approximately 40 kilometres from Chandramouleshwara Temple, Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a prominent archaeological and historical destination. It is known for its well-preserved ruins, ancient temples, and monuments, including the iconic Virupaksha Temple.
Anegundi:
Situated around 45 kilometres from Chandramouleshwara Temple, Anegundi is a quaint village near Hampi with a rich history. It offers a glimpse into the rural life of Karnataka and features attractions like Anjaneya Hill, Pampa Sarovar, and the Huchappayana Matha Temple.
Tungabhadra Dam:
Located approximately 50 kilometres from Chandramouleshwara Temple, the Tungabhadra Dam is a major irrigation project built across the Tungabhadra River. It offers beautiful views of the dam and reservoir, and you can enjoy boating and picnicking in the surrounding areas.
Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary:
Situated around 85 kilometres from Chandramouleshwara Temple, the Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary is a unique wildlife sanctuary known for its population of Indian sloth bears. Visitors can observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.
Located approximately 110 kilometres from Chandramouleshwara Temple, Pattadakal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its temples built during the Chalukya dynasty. The temples showcase exquisite architecture and intricate carvings.
Situated around 120 kilometres from Chandramouleshwara Temple, Aihole is an ancient town with a significant archaeological heritage. It houses numerous temples, including the Durga, Ravanaphadi Cave, and Lad Khan, known for their architectural beauty.