Shri Harihareshwaraswamy Temple - Harihara Davangere
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🛕 Temple Info
Nestled on the serene banks of the sacred Tungabhadra River, Sri Harihareshwaraswamy Temple in Harihara is a marvel of divinity and architecture. Located just 18 km from Davangere, this ancient temple is a sacred confluence — both spiritually and symbolically — as it houses Harihara, the unified form of Lord Vishnu (Hari) and Lord Shiva (Hara).
🎨 Architecture
- Built with smooth grey soapstone
- Multi-pillared Sabhamandapa supported by 56 circular lathe-turned pillars
- Garbhagriha with 1.21m tall Harihara idol seated on a sacred pedestal
- Jatamukuta with crescent moon and Karandamakuta – representing both Shaiva and Vaishnava traditions
- Adjacent shrines for Sri Lakshmi Devi, and Goddess Parvati, Ganapati, Rishyasringa
- Hero stones and ancient Kannada inscriptions preserved inside the premises
A visit to Sri Harihareshwaraswamy Temple is not just a pilgrimage — it is a divine reminder of the unity of cosmic forces, of love and justice, preservation and transformation. The peaceful riverbank, ancient carvings, and spiritual vibrations make it an essential stop for seekers, historians, and devotees alike.
💫 Importance
Sri Harihareshwaraswamy is revered as the destroyer of evil and the protector of dharma, combining the compassionate strength of Vishnu with the fierce resolve of Shiva. This fusion form is believed to have manifested to vanquish the demon Guha, who could not be defeated by either deity alone. Bathing in the Tungabhadra here is said to absolve one of sins and offer liberation to one's ancestors.
Devotees worship this deity with unwavering devotion, and the temple’s divine aura offers deep spiritual solace. Pilgrims often perform rituals like Thilartharpana here to honour their forefathers.
📜History
Built in 1224 CE by Polalva, a general of Hoysala King Narasimha II, the temple stands as an enduring symbol of faith and artistry. It was further expanded by Soma, another commander under King Narasimha III in 1268 CE.
The legend narrates that the demon Guha (Guhasura), after securing a boon from Brahma, became invincible to either Vishnu or Shiva alone. To defeat him, both deities fused into Harihara and descended to earth at Kudalur, near the confluence of Tungabhadra and Haridra rivers.
The temple structure showcases the Hoysala architectural style, with a staggered square plan, lathe-turned soapstone pillars, ornate lotus-carved ceilings, and an intricately designed Sabha Mandapa. The garbhagriha houses the iconic image of Harihara, with Vishnu's features on the left and Shiva's on the right — holding chakra-shankha and trishula-japamala respectively.
🪔 Pooja Timings
- Morning Darshan: 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM
- Evening Darshan: 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Special poojas are offered during festivals and on auspicious lunar days.
🚌 Transfort Options
By Road:
- 18 km from Davangere
- 70 km from Chitradurga
- Accessible from Haveri
By Train:
- Nearest railway stations: Davangere, Haveri, Chitradurga
By Air:
- The nearest airport is in Hubli, approx. 150 km away.
🏙️Near By Cities
Hubli
Haveri
Kaginele
Davanageri
Chitradurg
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