Lord Shiva is worshipped as Someshwara in this 14th century beautiful temple and is a structure which every architect, photographer, lover of art & a reverend person would love to spend some time.
This structure is built in Dravidian style of architecture. It was started by the Cholas but completed by the Vijayanagar kings in their style of art, architecture and sculpture. This temple has beautiful carved sculpted pillars aligned against temple walls. Beautiful mantaps adorn the temple complex.
After Cholas & Vijayanagar kings this structure came under the patronage of Wodeyar kings of Mysore, Hyder Ali and his son Tipu Sultan – ultimately passing on to the British and finally ending with Government of India. Today Archeological Society India maintains this place.
This Beautiful Someshwara Temple is situated in Kolar town 2 kms from the central bus depot. Kolar sees Hindus & Muslims living in harmony because of the glorious past history. This temple bears resembles to the Ulsoor Someshwara temple at Bangalore but it is much more grandeur.
Kolar is 68 kms from Bangalore on old Madras toll highway. It’s worth a weekend drive combining other places of interest around Kolar.
Kolar is well connected by train and buses from Bangalore. Hotels & restaurants on the Bangalore – Kolar highways are a better bet for your patronage. Very early morning drive to Kolar is recommended to soak in the beautiful landscape.
-Jagdeesh Laxman Singh
aka Jugie Singh
Text & Photography
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