Top 5 Things To Do In Kolar, Karnataka

1. Visit the deities in Kolaramma Temple

As a thousand-year-old granite place of worship, Kolaramma Temple allows people to connect to their deities. The entrance is free, and it welcomes all people to see the beauty of its shrines.

The architecture of this temple is subtle but highlights its deities, one of which is the goddess Durga, associated with protection and strength. Another shrine is dedicated to Sapta Matrikas, a group of seven divine mothers. People also visit this temple to seek the protection of the scorpion goddess, Chelamma. It is believed that she will keep people safe from scorpion bites.

Additionally, its walls are decorated with inscriptions dating back to 1012 AD. The temple also has the traditional hundi collection box under the temple floors. People would insert their coins in the floor opening as an offering to the temple. You can even hear the sounds of your coins clinking against other coins that have piled up over the years.

Kolaramma Temple

Address: Fort Area, Kolar, Karnataka 63101, India

Website: Kolaramma Temple

Opening hours: Mon, Wed - Thu: 7am - 11am, 5:30pm - 8pm; Tue: 7am - 1:30pm, 3pm - 9pm; Fri: 7am - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm; Sat: 7am - 1pm, 5:30pm - 8pm; Sun: 7am - 1:30pm, 5:30pm - 8pm

Price: Free entry

2. Be amazed by Antharagange Temple in the mountains

Antharagange Temple was created within nature. Found on Anthargange, the temple is mainly used to worship the deity Kasi Vishweshwara. Anthargange is just one of the landmasses forming the Shathashruga mountain range. You will have to climb the 350 to 500 steps to reach the temple, but the sight on top is worth it.

While the caves and volcanic rocks in this area are wonderful, what makes the place truly magnificent is the nearby pond that is believed to be sacred. The water of the pond is drank or bathed in by devotees to gain protection against diseases. This pond is also believed to be water falling from the head of the god Shiva.

Dakshina Kashi Kshetra, Antharagange

Address: 44P7+CFM, Keelu Kote, Vibhuthipura, Karnataka 563101, India

Opening hours: 6:30am - 6pm (daily)

3. Treat yourself to food from Sahana Darshini Restaurant

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Indian cuisine is definitely appreciated around the world. What better way to experience the food than in the place where it came from? If you’re feeling hungry, then head to Sahana Darshini Restaurant.

Sahana Darshini is a type of quick, self-served vegetarian restaurant. What makes Darshinis attractive is the simple set of rules. First, it must serve hot and good affordable quality food. Plus, there should only be a few items on the menu, and they must have controlled costs. Lastly, only pure water is to be used in food and drinks.

Once you visit Sahana Darshini, you must try its idli, a savory rice cake made from a steamed batter made of black lentils and rice. Its soft, pillow-like form makes it a favorite, partnered with different types of sauces. Tomato chutney goes perfectly with it. There are also dosas and breakfast items here.

Sahana Darshini Restaurant

Address: 44PH+MVG, Doddapet, Kolar, Karnataka 563101, India

Opening hours: 7am - 9:30pm (daily)

4. Be awed by the magnificence of Someshwara Temple

This jaw-dropping temple made of stucco and brick is dedicated to Shiva. The structure is believed to have been built by the Cholas and was then expanded around the 14th century by the Vijayanagara Empire. This monument of national importance is protected by the Archeological Survey of India and praised for its details. This place of worship is ornamented with a raised floor and Dravidian tower, all wrapped in Prakara walls.

It also has a beautiful wedding hall, or Kalyana Mantapa, made of granite with sculpted pillars around it. Almost all pillars are decorated with beings related to the country’s mythology.

Someshwara Temple

Address: 44PQ+X7X, Fort Area, Kolar, Karnataka 563101, India

Opening hours: Tue - Thu: 7am - 11am, 5pm - 8pm; Fri - Sun: 7am - 1:30pm, 5pm - 8pm; Mon: 7am - 2pm, 5pm - 8pm

5. Enjoy the serene atmosphere in Markandeya Hill

The top of the peaceful and quiet Markandeya Hill, locally known as Markandeya Betta, is accessible by climbing on foot or by driving through its road. The elevated land is the ideal destination for those who want to be away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Here, you can bring your own food or be at peace or enjoy time with your companions.

Markandeya is a sage who worshipped Shiva and was saved by the deity from Yama, the god of death. On this hill, Markandeya Temple will welcome you with its intrinsically colorful statues. It is said that under the stones, there were marks of Yama’s whips.

Markandeya Hill

Address: 323V+XGX, Kolar, Karnataka 563137, India

Pack your bags and visit Kolar, Karnataka, now

Kolar is a testament to the beauty of India’s history and culture. Kolar respects the past and presents it to the people of today with love and care. If you’re visiting this city soon, consider trying out the top things to do listed above.