Located in Kammasandra village near Kolar in Karnataka, Kotilingeshwara Temple is a one-of-a-kind pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva. The name ‘Kotilingeshwara’ literally means “one crore lingas of Shiva,” symbolizing immense devotion and faith. It’s a must-visit for devotees and travelers seeking a divine experience surrounded by countless sacred symbols.
The Legend and History
The temple was conceptualized and built by Swami Sambha Shiva Murthy in the 1980s with the vision to install one crore (10 million) Shiva Lingas. Over the years, devotees from across the country have contributed lingas of various sizes — from small ones to the 108 ft tall main Shiva Linga, accompanied by a 35 ft Nandi statue, one of the largest in the world.
The site beautifully represents the unity of faith, drawing people from all walks of life to contribute to this ever-growing sea of Lingas.
Temple Highlights
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Main Deity: Lord Kotilingeshwara (Shiva)
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Main Attractions:
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108 ft tall Shiva Linga
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35 ft Nandi statue
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More than 90 lakh Shiva Lingas already installed
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Temples dedicated to Parvati, Ganesh, Brahma, Vishnu, and other deities
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Special Feature: Devotees can sponsor and install their own lingas as an act of devotion.
Quick Facts: Kotilingeshwara Temple
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Timings | 6:00 AM – 9:30 PM |
| Entry Fee | ₹20 per person |
| Camera Fee | ₹100 per camera |
| Parking Charges | ₹30 |
| Linga Installation Fee | Starts from ₹8,000 |
| Facilities | Restrooms, drinking water, nearby hotels, and snack outlets |
| Accommodation | Well-maintained rooms available (Contact the administrative office for booking) |
Best Time to Visit:
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Maha Shivaratri (February/March) is the grandest celebration.
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Visit between October and March for pleasant weather.
Rituals and Sevas
The temple offers a range of poojas and sevas that devotees can perform:
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Abhishekam – ₹100
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Lingam Installation (Personal Linga Pratistha) – ₹1,000 onwards
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Rudrabhishekam – ₹500
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Maha Mangalarathi – ₹200
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Annadanam (Food Offering) – ₹1,000
All rituals are conducted by temple priests, and devotees can participate with prior booking.
How to Reach Kotilingeshwara Temple
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Nearest Town: Kolar (35 km)
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Nearest Railway Station: Kolar Railway Station
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Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (100 km)
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By Road: The temple is well connected via NH 75; frequent buses and taxis operate from Bengaluru, Kolar, and Mulbagal.
Nearby Attractions
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Antharagange Hills: A scenic trekking and temple site known for natural caves and springs.
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Avani Temple Complex: A historical temple linked to the Ramayana.
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Kurudumale Ganesha Temple: Features a massive 14-ft monolithic Ganesha idol.
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Kolar Gold Fields (KGF): Once India’s famous gold mining area with colonial history.
Tribal & Local Activities
The region around Kolar has rich rural and tribal culture, offering visitors a glimpse into local traditions, folk art, and cuisine. Some areas around the temple occasionally host handicraft stalls and traditional dance performances, especially during festive seasons like Maha Shivaratri.
Visitor Tips
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Footwear is not allowed inside the temple complex.
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Carry water and sun protection during summer.
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Photography is allowed in certain areas only.
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Try visiting early morning or evening for a peaceful darshan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Why is Kotilingeshwara Temple famous?
It’s known for housing over 90 lakh Shiva Lingas and the goal to reach one crore installations.
Q2. Can devotees install their own linga?
Yes, devotees can donate and install lingas in their names through temple authorities.
Q3. How much time is needed to explore the temple?
Typically, 1–2 hours are enough for darshan and exploration.
Q4. Is there accommodation nearby?
Yes, there are guesthouses in Kolar and budget hotels in Bangarapet and Mulbagal.
Q5. Are there food facilities at the temple?
Yes, the temple provides Annadanam and nearby eateries serve South Indian vegetarian food.
Conclusion
The Kotilingeshwara Temple is not just a place of worship — it’s a symbol of mass devotion and unity. Surrounded by millions of Shiva Lingas, it offers an experience that’s both spiritual and visually awe-inspiring. Whether you’re a devotee or a curious traveler, this temple in Kolar is a must-visit for a divine and memorable journey.
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