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A guide to the Golden City's top attractions and why you must not miss them!
Are you looking for a unique place in India? Head to Kolar! The town is filled with inspiring art, history and culture. Once a prosperous town, during the British era, this small town in Karnataka is to the brim with history in the form of iconic temples and gold mines. It has been under the rule of many renowned kingdoms in the past. During my last trip to Kolar, I walked among structures belonging to the Hoysalas, Deccan rulers, Cholas, Vijayanagara, the British, and the Maharaja of Mysore.
Kolar welcomed me warmly. It has something for everyone—whether you're a tourist, a historian, or an environmentalist. Its forts, temples, and scenic landscapes, captured my heart and curiosity. Take a break from your hectic schedule and head to this city for a masterclass in history and architecture!
The following top places in Kolar transported me to a bygone era and made me go 'Wow!'
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For devotees of Lord Shiva and art enthusiasts, Someshwara Temple is a must-visit. The temple lies at the centre of Kolar and is dedicated to Lord Someshwara, one of the incarnations of Lord Shiva. It was constructed in the 14th century and is now recognised as a national monument. The Archaeological Survey of India protects and maintains the temple.
The temple's intricate carvings and ornate mouldings feature significant religious symbols, which left me in awe! As I walked into the temple, I found Someshwara Swamy residing as a 1.5-foot-tall linga in the garbagriha. Towards the northwestern part of the temple, I saw a shrine dedicated to Goddess Parvati. I sat down to meditate in her presence and relaxed in the peaceful vibes and calming energy. The temple is not crowded, and you can tour the temple at your pace. The towering edifice moulded from Dravidian architecture is a treat for the eyes.
You must visit the temple’s pushkarini (tank). I was astounded by its stunning construction. If you are into art, you’ll love the kalyana mantapa, or the wedding stage. The beautiful art on the four pillars of the mantapa was influenced by Thai, European and Chinese architecture.
I would recommend using public transportation like buses and rickshaws to reach Someshwara Temple in the Kolar Fort area. You can also book a cab. It is open from Monday through Sunday.
The temple of Kolaramma was built during the 11th century by the Cholas in the Dravida Vimana architectural style. Goddess Parvati is worshipped as Kolaramma and is the presiding deity of the town of Kolar. At this temple, I came across beautifully carved statues, designs and elaborate patterns carved into granite. I studied the Chola's Tamil and Kannada inscriptions within the L-shaped premise of the temple. A gentle wave of peaceful energy followed me throughout the temple.
I would highly recommend paying a visit to Chelamma or Scorpion Goddess, the other deity at the temple. There is a belief that if you pray at the Chelamma shrine, you'll be guarded against scorpion bites. I made sure I gain my invincibility too. I also found intriguing the temple's hundi, which accumulates offerings from devotees. You can follow the tradition of putting coins into the hundi and hear them click against the coins collected over hundreds of years.
The temple is five minutes from the Someshwara Temple, and you can reach it either by bus, car, or rickshaw. I recommend visiting both temples on the same day. It is open on all days, except Friday.
Kotilingeshwara Temple is in the village of Kammasandra and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This is one of the most famous temples in the region, home to the largest and tallest linga in Asia. This temple was built in 1980 by Swamy Sambha Shiva Murthy. The huge linga measuring 108 feet is its main attraction, along with a 35-foot Nandi.
I can't stress enough how important it is to hire a guide to explain the details, facts and importance of the temple. I learned many nuanced insights through the vivid retelling of the temple's local legends and stories.
You’ll be awestruck seeing around six lahk Shivalingas in this temple. I visited the Kotilingeshwara Temple during Maha Shivaratri when the temple is extensively decorated with lights and flowers. This is the best time to experience grand festivities and attend the sacred prayer ceremonies. It is a vibe like no other! Remember to eat before the trip as there are no restaurants near the temple. Or, like me, you can carry a packed lunch in the car.
There are eleven temples on the property dedicated to various deities, including Lord Rama, Goddess Annapoorneshwari, Lord Maheshwara, Lord Vishnu, Lord Anjaneya, and Lord Brahma. This temple is on the Kotilinga temple road in Ghattiragadahalli and can be reached by a local bus all days of the week.
Kolar Gold Field (KGF) is in Bangarapet Taluk and is a popular mining area. This area became well-known for housing one of India's most significant gold mines and the world's second-deepest gold mine. I learned that Kolar City powered its mines from the electricity generated by the first-ever hydroelectric project in south India. THE MINES WERE FIRST operational IN 1880, AND ONE OF THE VEINS REACHED AROUND 10,500 FEET BELOW SEA LEVEL! This place gave me the thrills!
When visiting this place, take a tour of the colonial-style architecture that was home to nationals from Germany, the United Kingdom and Italy. While exploring the fields, you will come across St. Michael’s and All Angels’ Church. The church has Victorian-style architecture and was built in 1905. I clubbed my visit to Kolar Gold Fields with a quick visit to Doddabetta Hill, the highest peak in the Nilgiri mountains. The fields are in the KGF taluk of Kolar district, with local buses and cabs frequently making trips to and from the mine.
It’s also an excellent spot for adventure lovers. You can go trekking, rock climbing, or exploring caves. I would recommend taking a guide along as it's difficult to explore the caves.
Sri Kashi Vishweshwara Temple, also known as Antara Gange Temple, is famed for its architecture. It also has a pond on its grounds.
While heading towards Kashi Visweswara, visit Jalakanteswara at the bottom of the hills. For a scenic view of the seven villages on the hills, visit the Deepa Stambha on the hilltop.
The well-maintained roads make it easy to reach Antara Gange. You can choose to drive, take a motorcycle or hire a private cab, as I did. Please note that bus services are not available.
If you have visited all major towns in Karnataka and are unsure about your next stop, Kolar is perfect for your next adventure! The city is full of temples with stones, deities, and inscriptions dating back to the 14th century, well preserved by the government. Truly extraordinary! A trip to this city was an interesting history lesson for me. You can head to Kolar any time during the year, but the best time to visit is between October and March. Come prepared with a camera to capture some magnificent shots of ancient art and beautiful panoramic views.
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