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Karnataka Virupaksha Temple
Virupaksha Temple is one of the oldest temples of India. This ancient monument is located at Hampi, 350 km away from Bangalore on the southern bank of Tungabadra River, next to the local bus stop. This area is portrayed as one of the most renowned pilgrimage centre for people worshipping Lord Shiva. The annual festival of Virupaksha Temple draws a huge crowd which includes both pilgrims and tourists. The history of origin of Hampis as a sacred place revolves around the myths that somehow relate to the temple. This temple is to be said functioning uninterruptedly ever since its beginning from 7th century AD. Thus it is believed to be one of the oldest functioning temples in India.
History and Architecture
The temple’s history has remained undisturbed from about the 7th century. Detailed Inscriptions at the temple referring to Shiva are dated back from 9th and 10th centuries. The Vijayanagara rulers grew this small shrine to a giant complex. During the late Hoysala and Chalukyan periods various additions were added to the temple. Over the centuries the temple has seen a notable amount of expansion sprawling into a complex structure comprising of many pillared halls, sub shrines, flag posts, towered gateways, lamp posts and also a huge temple kitchen. The temple can be accessed through the main entrance tower via Chariot Street now popularly known as Hampi Bazaar. The giant tower facing east leads to the first temple courtyard of the temple complex. The ancient superstructure comprises of bricks and mortar. The most fascinating characteristic of this court is the central pillared hall also known as the Ranga Mandapa.
Rules and Regulations
The daily temple rituals and ceremonies can be witnessed in the morning and evening time. The temple opens daily before sunrise and closes at night time. The sanctum is usually closed during afternoon. The entry isn’t allowed into the campus at this point time.
Photography isn’t allowed inside the sanctum area. A proper time of at least one hour is needed to completely explore the temple complex.
Temple Festivals
Mostly the crowds are attracted towards the temple during festival time. Virupaksha Temple holds marriage and betrothal festivities of Pampa and Virupaksha in December. The annual chariot festival is the main attraction drawing a large number of pilgrims as well as tourists.
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