Top 10 Places To Visit In Kolar For The Ultimate Cultural Dive

Explore the rich culture and heritage at Kolar, a city in the Indian state of Karnataka.

Kolar, a quaint city in Karnataka, is a hidden gem brimming with cultural heritage, ancient temples, and serene landscapes. Known for its historical significance and natural beauty, Kolar offers a unique blend of spirituality and adventure. From centuries-old temples with intricate architecture to mesmerizing hilltop views and peaceful reservoirs, the city and its surrounding areas captivate every traveller. In this blog, we’ll take you through 10 breathtaking places to visit in Kolar that promise to enrich your soul and leave you spellbound by their charm, history, and scenic beauty.

10 Places To Visit In Kolar

Complete your trip to some of the most beautiful places to visit in Kolar which is a city in the Indian state of Karnataka.

1. Kolaramma Temple

An image of the sacred Kolaramma temple is a thousand years old and built by the Cholas.

Photo: Hariharan Arunachalam ( NIC ) / Wikimedia Commons

A 5th-century temple dedicated to the Goddess Kolaramma, this Dravidian-style structure is an archaeological wonder with intricate carvings and ancient inscriptions. The temple’s design is unique, featuring the idol in a standing position, which is rare in Southern temples. It also houses a secret underground chamber said to be connected to the treasure of the Kolar Gold Fields. The annual Dussehra festival here attracts numerous devotees and adds a vibrant atmosphere to the temple, making it one of the top Kolar tourist places worth visiting.

Location: Near MG Road, Kolar city
Major Attractions: Beautiful stone architecture, 1000-year-old inscriptions, and religious significance.

2. Someshwara Temple

One of the places to visit in Kolar is Halasuru Someshwara Temple, located in Halasuru.

Photo: P. Madhusudan / Wikimedia Commons

Another architectural marvel in Kolar, this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva boasts impressive carvings and the Vijayanagara architectural style. Built in the 14th century, the temple is known for its intricately carved pillars and the spacious courtyard that reflects the grandeur of the past. It is one of the most famous places to visit in Kolar. The annual Maha Shivaratri festival brings this temple to life, with special rituals and thousands of devotees thronging the premises. The temple is an excellent spot for photography, especially for those interested in historical architecture.

Location: Someshwara Temple Road, Kolar city
Major Attractions: Intricate stone carvings, pillars with mythical figures, and religious ambience.

3. Antara Gange

This is one of the good places for starters for hiking, cave exploration and camping.

Photo: Chandan Parihar / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Antara Gange is a popular trekking and adventure spot, a hill station known for its serene beauty, caves, and natural springs flowing from rocks. The trek to the summit takes you through dense forests and rocky terrain, making it a thrilling experience for adventure enthusiasts. The caves at the top are ideal for exploration, and the views of the sunrise from here are stunning. The natural spring water is believed to have medicinal properties. This is one of the best tourist places in Kolar for adventure seekers.

Location: Antharagange, Karnataka 577245
Major Attractions: Trekking trails, ancient caves, and breathtaking views from the hilltop.

4. Kotilingeshwara Temple

Places to visit in Kolar include Kotilingeshwara Temple which is the tallest Shiva Linga.

Photo: Tavamani M / Wikimedia Commons

Famous for housing over 10 million Shiva lingams, Kotilingeshwara is one of the largest Shiva temples in the world, attracting devotees from everywhere. The gigantic 108-foot Shiva Linga and a 35-foot tall Nandi statue are the main highlights of the temple complex. The temple is also known for its peaceful atmosphere, offering a spiritual retreat for visitors. Annual festivals like Maha Shivaratri and Kartik Purnima are celebrated with grand fervour here. Add this to your Kolar tourist places list for an unforgettable experience.

Location: Kammasandra village, Kolar
Major Attractions: Massive collection of Shiva lingas, large Shiva statue, and spiritual atmosphere.

5. Avani

A glimpse of Avani is a small village in Mulabaagilu taluk, Kolara district in Karnataka.

Photo: Dineshkannambadi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

A picturesque village, Avani is known for the ancient Ramalingeshwara group of temples and its association with the Ramayana believed to be the birthplace of Lava and Kusha. Trekking is common in the village, and the temples are carved out of a rocky slope with sweeping views of the surrounding area. The peaceful ambience of the village is ideal for those seeking a spiritual escape. The annual Rama Navami festival is a major attraction.

Location: Avani, Lolar, Karnataka 563127
Major Attractions: Ramalingeshwara temples, trekking to the hilltop, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

6. Mulbagal Anjaneya Temple

Places to visit in Kolar include this temple which is believed to be around 5000 years old.

Photo: Dineshkannambadi / Wikimedia Commons

This old temple is widely regarded and draws a large number of devotees due to its religious significance and legacy. It is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The temple is known for its towering Hanuman statue, and it is said that visiting this temple brings good luck and prosperity. The temple complex is encircled by tranquil scenery and is kept up beautifully. Large crowds gather here for the yearly Hanuman Jayanti event, where devotees are treated to special rites. Nearby lodges and eateries make it a convenient stop for visitors.

Location: Mulbagal town
Major Attractions: Hanuman idol, serene temple premises, and vibrant festivals.

7. Bangaru Tirupati

Hulkuru is famous for the Lakshmi Venkateshwara temple and also called Bangaru Tirupati.

Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

A small temple resembling the famous Tirupati Venkateswara Temple, Bangaru Tirupati offers a tranquil spiritual experience without the crowd of the main temple. The temple is located on a hilltop, offering visitors panoramic views of the countryside. Pilgrims can perform special pujas, and the temple’s peaceful environment makes it an ideal place for meditation and reflection. The annual Brahmotsava festival is celebrated here with much grandeur. Nearby shops sell souvenirs and religious items, enhancing the visitor experience.

Location: Karnataka 563116
Major Attractions: Hilltop temple has scenic views and peaceful surroundings.

8. Kurudumale Ganesha Temple

One of the places to visit in Kolar is this temple is just a short distance from Mulbagal town.

Photo: Dineshkannambadi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and holds historical importance as it was believed to be a site where gods descended. The temple houses a 13-foot-tall monolithic Ganesha idol, said to have been installed by the Pandavas. The temple’s simple yet majestic architecture reflects the Vijayanagara era, and it’s a favourite spot for devotees seeking blessings for new beginnings. Surrounded by rich nature, the temple provides a serene environment for introspection. It’s a great stop for those on a spiritual or historical tour.

Location: Kurudumale village
Major Attractions: Huge Ganesha idol, serene surroundings, and impressive architecture.

9. Narasimha Swamy Temple

The Narasimha Swamy temple at Seebi is located in the Sira taluk of Tumkur district.

Photo: Dineshkannambadi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

A revered temple located in Seebi, known for its architecture and serene surroundings. The temple is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Vishnu, and is renowned for its impressive carvings and historical significance. The tranquil setting makes it a peaceful spot for meditation and spiritual reflection. Visitors can also explore the beautiful surrounding gardens and relax in the calm environment. Compared to the other well-known temples in the area, this lesser-known gem provides a more tranquil experience.

Location: Seebi village
Major Attractions: Ancient stone carvings, lush green surroundings, and religious atmosphere.

10. Bethamangala Reservoir

An image of Bethamangala Reservoir which is centred around a large man-made lake.

Photo: Shyamal / Wikimedia Commons

A peaceful and scenic reservoir surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for a day of relaxation by the water. The reservoir provides drinking water to the nearby regions and is a great spot for birdwatching and fishing. Boating services are available for visitors, making it an ideal spot for family outings and picnics. The calm waters reflect the changing hues of the sky during sunrise and sunset, offering a picturesque view. Nearby cottages provide accommodation for those wanting to extend their stay and enjoy the serene ambience.

Location: Parasepalli, Karnataka 563116
Major Attractions: Picturesque landscapes, boating, and picnic spots.

Kolar is a treasure trove of historical wonders, spiritual havens, and natural beauty waiting to be explored. Whether you’re seeking divine blessings at ancient temples, or chasing adrenaline on scenic treks, Kolar promises an unforgettable experience. Each of these breathtaking places to visit in Kolar offers a unique glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural splendour. Plan a trip with TripXL and explore the enchanting landscapes.

Cover Photo: kumararun85 / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

No, entry to Kolaramma Temple is free. However, donations are accepted for temple maintenance.
Someshwara Temple is open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM daily. It’s best to visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience.
Yes, the caves at Avani can be accessed while trekking to the Ramalingeshwara temple complex. The trail is moderately challenging and offers panoramic views of the surroundings.
Yes, there is ample parking space available near the Mulbagal Anjaneya Temple for both two-wheelers and four-wheelers.
The best time to visit Bangaru Tirupati is early in the morning or during weekdays to avoid large crowds, especially during the Brahmotsava festival.

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