Omkareshwara Temple: Spiritual Haven on Omkar Hills Bengaluru
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🛕 Temple Info
Nestled atop the serene Omkar Hills in South Bangalore, the Omkareshwara Temple, also reverently known as the Shree Dwadasha Jyotirlinga Shiva Temple, is a sanctuary of profound peace and spiritual grandeur. This isn't just a temple; it is a divine pilgrimage condensed into a single, breathtaking location. As you ascend the hillock, the cacophony of the city fades away, replaced by a powerful, calming silence that prepares you for a unique darshan.
The temple's most magnificent feature is its sacred collection: all 12 Jyotirlingas, the radiant forms of Lord Shiva, are enshrined together under one vast roof. Each Jyotirlinga is housed in its own ornate sanctum (mantapa), meticulously named and described, allowing devotees to offer prayers to the divine manifestations from Omkareshwar, Rameshwaram, Kedarnath, Somnath, Mahakaleshwar, Mallikarjuna, Bhimashankar, Vishwanatha, Tryambakeshwar, Nageshwar, Vaidyanath, and Grishneshwar. The central and largest lingam is that of Lord Omkareshwara, from whom the temple draws its name.
The atmosphere within is incredibly tranquil, ideal for deep meditation, quiet prayer, and heartfelt reflection. The architecture is a sight to behold, with gopuras (towers) reflecting both North and South Indian styles. The complex is expansive, clean, and well-maintained, offering not just spiritual solace but also a stunning panoramic view of Bangalore from one of its highest points. The presence of an ancient, majestic banyan tree, surrounded by symbols of various world religions, further enhances the temple's message of universal harmony and peace.
💫 Importance
The importance of the Omkareshwara Temple cannot be overstated for devotees of Lord Shiva. A pilgrimage to all twelve original Jyotirlingas scattered across India is a lifelong aspiration for many. This temple offers a rare and blessed opportunity to complete this sacred pilgrimage in a single visit. It is believed that circumambulating this temple is equivalent to performing a pradakshina of thousands of Shiva lingas, as each Jyotirlinga here is surrounded by 1008 miniature Narmada banalingas.
It serves as a powerful spiritual nucleus, allowing individuals to connect with the diverse energies of Lord Shiva. For those unable to undertake the extensive journey across the country, this temple is a divine blessing, bringing the collective power of the Jyotirlingas to their doorstep. It is a place that strengthens faith, fosters inner peace, and provides a tangible connection to India's rich spiritual heritage, making it a cornerstone of devotional life in Bangalore.
📜 History
The Omkareshwara Temple, though radiating an ancient aura, is a testament to modern devotional vision. It was established under the guidance of His Holiness Sri Sri Shivapuri Mahaswamiji as part of the Omkara Ashrama Mahasamsthana, founded on Omkar Hills in 1992. Inspired by the legendary Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga in Madhya Pradesh, the temple was conceived to create a central hub of Shiva worship in South India.
Over the past few decades, it has grown from a revered local shrine to a significant pilgrimage site. The temple complex has expanded to include not only the Dwadasha Jyotirlinga shrine but also the unique Matsya Narayana Temple (dedicated to Lord Vishnu's fish incarnation), a Vana Durga temple, and a Vedagama Pathashala for Vedic studies. The iconic giant clock tower, one of the largest of its kind, chimes with the sacred sound of 'Om', marking time in a spiritual rhythm. This harmonious blend of devotion, architecture, and education continues to draw seekers from all walks of life.
🪔 Pooja Timings
The temple follows specific timings to maintain its serene environment for rituals and prayers. It is advisable to plan your visit accordingly.
- Morning: 7:00 AM to 12:45 PM
- Evening: 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM
- Sundays and Government Holidays: 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Special pujas like archana are available for devotees. The temple is also known to offer Anna Prasadam, a simple and sanctified meal of Sambar Rice, around 1:00 PM on some days. Please note that the temple maintains a strict dress code; sleeveless tops, shorts, and casual wear are not permitted. Photography inside the main temple is prohibited.
🚌 Transport Options
By Air: The nearest airport is Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) in Bangalore, approximately 55-60 km away. From the airport, you can hire a cab or use app-based taxi services to reach the temple directly.
By Rail: The major railway hub is Bangalore City Railway Station (SBC), about 20 km from Omkar Hills. Another convenient station is Kengeri Railway Station, which is only about 4 km away. From any railway station, taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available.
By Road: Bangalore is well-connected by road to all major cities. The temple is located in Rajarajeshwari Nagar (RR Nagar), South Bangalore. Once in the city, you can drive or take a cab to Omkar Hills.
Local Transport & Important Note on Access: The temple is situated on a hilltop. The main access road from the archway to the parking lot is approximately 200 meters long and is currently an unpaved, uneven mud track that can be challenging, especially after rains. It is recommended to use the alternative entrance near Omkar Public School for a slightly shorter and more accessible route.
- Bus: BMTC buses frequently ply to the Omkar Hills bus stop. From there, it is a short uphill walk to the temple.
- Metro: The nearest Metro station is Doddakallasandra on the Green Line. From there, you can take an auto-rickshaw or a bus to reach the temple.
- Parking: Ample paid parking space is available at the hilltop. The current charge is ₹10 for two-wheelers and ₹20 for four-wheelers.
🏙️ Nearby Cities
Mysore (approx. 150 km)
Ramanagara (approx. 50 km)
Tumakur (approx. 70 km).
MytempleMypride Reflection
For our team, the Omkareshwara Temple is a profound symbol of spiritual accessibility. The ability to witness all twelve Jyotirlingas in one place is a deeply moving experience, especially during Maha Shivaratri when the entire complex vibrates with collective devotion through night-long prayers and programs. Standing at that hilltop vantage point, with the glittering expanse of Bangalore below and the divine energy of Lord Shiva all around, is a powerful reminder of how our sacred spaces offer both inner peace and a majestic connection to the world beyond. It is a unique jewel where the cosmic and the earthly beautifully converge.