Bull Temple (Dodda Basavana Gudi)
Type
Hindu Temple
Deity
Lord Shiva
Pincode
560004
A famous Bangalore temple housing one of the largest monolithic Nandi (Shiva's sacred bull) statues in the world — 4.5 metres tall and 6 metres long, carved from a single granite rock. Built by Kempe Gowda I (founder of Bangalore) in the 16th century. The annual Kadalekayi Parishe (groundnut fair) here is one of Bangalore's most beloved folk festivals.
History & Significance
History
Built by Kempe Gowda I in 1537 CE, the Bull Temple is among the oldest temples in Bangalore. Legend holds that Nandi used to emerge from this hillock every night and devour the groundnut crops of local farmers — the farmers appeased the bull by building a temple. The annual Kadalekayi Parishe (groundnut fair, November) has been held for 500+ years.
Nearby Temples
Closest temples by distance — worth combining into the same trip.