Nestled amidst the serene environs of Basavanagudi in South Bengaluru, Shri Doddaganapathi Temple is one of the city’s most iconic and spiritually vibrant temples. The temple houses a colossal monolithic idol of Lord Ganesha — measuring an awe-inspiring 18 feet in height and 16 feet in width — believed to be growing subtly over time. Surrounded by the peaceful greenery of Bugle Rock Garden, the temple offers a divine retreat from the bustle of city life, drawing thousands of devotees and tourists every day.
The temple is revered for its powerful spiritual presence, with devotees believing that Lord Ganesha here grants immediate blessings for marriage, childbirth, career growth, Vastu dosha parihara, and protection from obstacles. The Benne Alankara (butter adornment) ritual is especially popular, where the idol is covered in over 100 kg of butter, believed to hold mystical energy that doesn’t melt in the sanctum’s warmth. Special celebrations like Vinayaka Chaturthi and the Kadale Kayi Parishe in Karthika Masa attract thousands seeking divine intervention.
The origins of the temple date back to the 15th century, with strong associations to the Vijayanagara Empire. Though no official inscriptions exist, legends say that Kempegowda I, the founder of Bengaluru, discovered a Ganesha-like formation on a massive boulder while walking the area. He then commissioned sculptors to carve the idol from a single stone. Over centuries, the temple has undergone various renovations, notably under Kempegowda and later by the Government of Karnataka, preserving its sanctity while adapting to changing times.
By Bus:
From Majestic (Kempegowda Bus Station), Bengaluru: ~4 km
From Mysuru: ~150 km
From Mandya: ~100 km
From Tumakuru: ~70 km
By train:
From Majestic (Kempegowda railway Station), Bengaluru: ~4 km
From Mysuru railway station: ~150 km
From Mandya railway station: ~102 km
From Tumakuru railway station: ~72 km
By Air:
From Bengaluru international
airport : ~40 km
Bengaluru Kempegowda Bus stand
Mandya
Tumkur
Mysore
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