In Kallahalli, Karnataka, the Bhoo Varaha Swamy Temple is a holy place many people visit. There is a temple for Lord Vishnu’s third form, Varaha. To save Earth from the monster Hiranyaksha, Varaha changed into a boar. The temple is on the peaceful banks of the Hemavathi River.
The tranquil setting adds to its spiritual importance. People from all walks of life come to the temple to experience its deep past and holy presence. The temple gives people a look into the deep customs of Hindu folklore. People who are looking for spiritual comfort still come to this old temple.
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Historical Background
The Bhoo Varahaswamy Temple has a lot of history behind it. A lot of people think it was built during the Ganga Dynasty. This family held parts of Karnataka from the 4th century CE to the 10th century CE. Later kingdom kings, such as the Hoysalas and the Vijayanagara, fixed up the temple. There is a well-known story about the temple: King Veera Bhallala found God while he was hunting.
He put God in the temple and started worshiping it regularly. Over hundreds of years, the temple has endured many storms and other natural disasters. The building is still a sign of strength and loyalty. It shows how different Indian kingdoms contributed to architecture and culture.
Architectural Marvel
The Bhoo Varaha Swamy Temple Kallahalli is simple and rectangular, made of big gray stone blocks, showing the building is simplicity and value. The temple has an 18-foot-tall statue of Varaha Swamy made from shaligram stone, which shows how beautiful old artistry could be. Goddess Bhoodevi is sitting on Varaha’s left lap, giving the shrine sculpture a holy meaning and fine detail.
The Sudarshana chakra, which represents divine protection and power, is carefully carved into the figure’s back right upper hand. Two big wooden doors at the front of the temple lead to a peaceful inside that is different from the simple outside.
The inside of the temple has a calm environment that makes it easier for people to meditate and think, which improves their total spiritual experience.
Festivals And Celebrations
The Bhoo Varahaswamy Temple holds grand celebrations for many Hindu holidays. Many people come to the Brahmotsavam to witness the complex customs and cultural acts that make the atmosphere lively.
For Vaikunta Ekadashi, people perform special prayers and put up flowers. During this happy day, people go to the temple to pray and celebrate.
Another important event at the temple is Narasimha Jayanti. It honors Lord Vishnu’s Narasimha form and includes elaborate ceremonies and community meetings.
People at the temple put up lights and make other preparations for Diwali. Special rituals and presents are held to respect God’s preservation and ask for his gifts of wealth.
Every holiday brings different cultural aspects to the temple, making it feel more sacred and joyful. People who attend these events can see the native ceremonies and feel the community spirit.
Best Time To Visit
Winter is the best time to visit this temple, between September to February.
Dress Code
- For guys, the dress code is shirt and pants, dhoti, or pyjamas with tops.
- For women, the best way to dress is in a saree or half-saree with a top or a churidar with pyjamas and underwear. Foreigners must also follow these rules.
- You can’t wear shorts, miniskirts, middies, sleeveless tops, low-rise jeans, or T-shirts that are too short.
- Visitors and pilgrims can only enter the temple if they follow the dress code.
Do's & Don'ts
- Get clean before you go into the temple. Take a bath and put on clean clothes.
- Do follow old traditions and co-pilgrims when you’re at the temple.
- Smoking is not allowed inside the temple grounds at all.
Temple Timings And Daily Schedule For Visitors
There is a set plan for daily practices and poojas at the Bhoo Varahaswamy Temple Kallahalli. The temple is open to the public from early morning until late at night, giving people plenty of time to pray and think. Take a look at these general times:
Morning Hours:
- Opening Time: 5:30 AM
- Morning Pooja: 6:00 AM to 7:00 AM
- Darshan Timings: 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Temple Closes: 12:00 PM
Evening Hours:
- Reopening Time: 4:30 PM
- Evening Pooja: 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM
- Darshan Timings: 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM
- Temple Closes: 8:30 PM
During holidays and other special events, the temple may stay open later to accommodate many visitors. It is best to check with the temple staff to see if there are any changes to the plan at that time. People who want to visit should schedule their trips around these times to participate in the poojas and feel the spiritual atmosphere of the temple.
How To Reach Bhoo Varaha Swamy Temple
By Road
- Significant towns in Karnataka such as Bangalore Mysore and Hassan are easily accessible by road from Kallahalli.
- The distance from Bangalore is about 180 kilometers and it takes a car or bus 4 to 5 hours to get there.
- It is about 75 kilometers from Mysore and the drive takes about two hours.
- It is only about 15 kilometers from Hassan, a quick 30-minute drive.
By Train
- The closest train stop is in Hassan which is 15 km away from Kallahalli.
- Major towns like Bangalore, Mysore, and Mangalore are easy to get to by train from Hassan.
- You can take a car or a neighborhood bus from Hassan to the temple.
By Air
- It is 180 kilometers from the temple to the Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore, the closest airport.
- You can bring a bus or a cab from the airport to Kallahalli.
- You can also fly to Mysore Airport which is closer and then drive to Kallahalli for another option.
Local Transport
- Once you get to Kallahalli you can reach the temple by local transportation such as auto rickshaws and cabs.
- The temple is located in the village so it is easy to reach on foot from Kallahalli.
Accommodation Near Bhoo Varahaswamy Temple
1. Ashok Hassan
The Hassan Ashok is a well-known hotel in Hassan that offers modern and pleasant services. The hotel has large rooms, a restaurant that serves Indian and other foreign food, and many services such as free Wi-Fi and room service. This is a good pick for a pleasant stay close to the temple.
- Distance from Temple: Around 20 kilometers
- Facilities: restaurant WiFi parking meeting rooms.
2. Hotel Southern Star
Another popular choice in Hassan is the Hotel Southern Star, a good mix of quality and cost. The hotel has well-furnished rooms, a restaurant serving a variety of cuisines, and other features like an exercise center and a swimming pool. It is perfect for tourists who want a more upscale experience.
- Distance from Temple: About 22 kilometers
- Facilities: restaurant gym pool Wi-Fi parking
Image Source: Hotel Southern Star (Official Website)
3. Mallige Residency
The Mallige Residency is a cheap choice in Hassan known for its clean and comfy rooms. The hotel has essential services and a kitchen that serves South Indian and local food. People who want to stay close to the building but spend less money can do so.
- Distance from Temple: Around 18 kilometers.
- Facilities: restaurant WiFi parking travel desk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What Is The Speciality Of Bhoo Varaha Swamy Temple?
The temple is dedicated to Lord Varaha, Vishnu’s third form. It has an 18-foot-tall shaligram stone idol.
What Are The Benefits Of Bhu Varaha Swamy Temple?
People think worshiping at the temple will forgive their sins, bring them wealth, and help them grow spiritually.
What Is Kallahalli Famous For?
Kallahalli is known for the Bhoo Varaha Swamy Temple, a holy place on the banks of the Hemavathi River.
What Is The History Of Varaha Swamy Temple?
The Ganga Dynasty built the temple, and the Hoysala and Vijayanagara kings modified it over the years.