Kotilingeshwara Temple

A Visit to the Astounding Kotilingeshwara Temple

In the small village of Kammasandra in Karnataka’s Kolar district, you’ll find the truly remarkable Kotilingeshwara Temple. This unique place of worship is dedicated to Lord Shiva and aims to house one crore lingas, which translates to ten million. Its sheer scale and spiritual ambiance make it a significant pilgrimage site, drawing devotees and curious travelers from all corners of the country.

The temple’s story began in 1980, with Swami Sambha Shiva Murthy initiating its construction and installing the very first linga. His vision was to create a spiritual center that would radiate peace and divinity. The name “Kotilingeshwara” itself signifies this grand ambition of establishing one crore lingas, a project that continues to grow with contributions from devotees.

What to Expect at Kotilingeshwara Temple

Prepare to be awestruck as you enter the sprawling 15-acre complex of the Kotilingeshwara Temple. The main attraction is the world’s tallest Shiva Linga, standing at a magnificent 108 feet. Accompanying this colossal linga is a massive 35-foot-tall statue of Nandi, Lord Shiva’s sacred bull, which creates a powerful and unforgettable sight.

The entire area is filled with a staggering number of smaller lingas, currently estimated to be over 90 lakhs. Devotees have the unique opportunity to install their own linga, with their name inscribed on it, contributing to the ever-growing collection. This sea of lingas, varying in size, creates a visual spectacle unlike any other.

Deities and Temple Complex

Beyond the main courtyard, the temple premises house eleven smaller temples dedicated to various other deities. You will find shrines for Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Maheshwara, as well as Goddess Annapoorneshwari, Lord Venkataramani Swamy, and Lord Panchamukha Ganapathy, among others. This allows for a comprehensive spiritual experience, honoring multiple divine forms within one sacred space. The complex is also equipped with basic amenities like washrooms, a marriage hall, and a meditation hall.

Kotilingeshwara Temple Timings and Entry Fees

The Kotilingeshwara Temple welcomes devotees every day, making it convenient to plan your visit. The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, providing ample time for darshan and to explore the vast complex. Daily pujas are performed by priests for all the installed lingas, with the air filled with the sounds of chants and drums.

Entry Fee Details

To enter the temple premises, there is a nominal entry fee of ₹20 per person. If you wish to bring a camera, there is an additional fee of ₹100. For those who want to install a Shivalinga in their name, the fee starts from around ₹6,000. Parking facilities are also available for a charge of ₹30.

Best Time to Visit and Busy Hours

For a pleasant experience, the best time to visit the Kotilingeshwara Temple is between October and March, when the weather is cool and comfortable for exploring the outdoor complex. The temple tends to be more crowded on weekends, so a weekday visit is recommended if you prefer a quieter atmosphere.

The temple experiences a massive influx of devotees during the festival of Maha Shivaratri, which is celebrated with great grandeur. This is a wonderful time to witness the temple in its full glory, though you should be prepared for large crowds. Arriving early in the morning can help you avoid the peak rush.

Tips to Make Your Visit Smooth

To ensure a respectful and enjoyable visit to the Kotilingeshwara Temple, here are a few useful tips:

• Dress Code: It is advisable to wear modest and traditional attire.
• Cash Payments: Be prepared with cash for entry fees and other purchases, as digital payment options may not always be available.
• Footwear: You will be required to remove your footwear before entering the main temple areas.
• Pujas: If you wish to perform a special puja or install a linga, it’s a good idea to inquire about the process at the temple office.
• Food and Water: While there are food stalls available, you might consider carrying your own snacks and water, especially on hot days.
• Wish-Fulfilling Trees: Look for the two sacred trees on the premises where devotees tie yellow threads to make wishes, particularly for a blessed married life.

Nearby Places to Visit

After your divine experience at Kotilingeshwara, you can explore other attractions in the Kolar region.

• Kolar Gold Fields (KGF): Discover the history of this once-famous gold mining town.
• Someshwara Temple: An ancient and architecturally significant temple located in Kolar.
• Antara Gange: A sacred spot known for its temple and a perennial stream flowing from the mouth of a stone bull.
• Bangaru Tirupati: A popular temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara.