Talakadu Temple: In the Indian state of Karnataka, a little town with a desert-like appearance is called Talakadu. Ancient temples in the town are well-known for the mythological significance attached to them.
Talakadu has over 30 temples, five of which are noteworthy and are referred to as the Panchalinga Darshana. These temples, which are devoted to Lord Shiva, are thought to have been erected between the fourth and tenth century AD by monarchs of the Ganga dynasty.
Sri Vaidyanatheshwara, Sri Arkeshwara, Sri Maruleshwara, Sri Mallikarjuna, and Sri Pathaleshwara are the five temples. According to the myth surrounding these temples, Talakadu was submerged in sand dunes by a Vaishnava saint named Ramanujacharya’s curse, and the temples were lost for centuries before being rediscovered in the 16th century.
During the town’s annual Talakadu Panchalinga Darshana festival, devotees from all over the nation travel there to see the temples and take a sacred bath in the Kaveri River. The event only occurs once every 12 years, and the following one is set for 2026.
Timing Details of the major temples in Talakadu:
| Temple Name | Temple Timings | Darshan Timings |
|---|---|---|
| Sri Vaideeswara Temple | 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM | Morning: 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM<br>Evening: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM |
| Sri Maruleshwara Temple | 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM | Morning: 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM<br>Evening: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM |
| Sri Mudukuthore Mallikarjuna Temple | 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM | Morning: 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM<br>Evening: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM |
| Sri Vaidyanatheswara Temple | 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM | Morning: 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM<br>Evening: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM |
| Sri Arkeshwara Temple | 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM | Morning: 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM<br>Evening: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM |
History of Talakadu Temple
The Ganga dynasty, which dominated the area between the fourth and tenth centuries AD, is responsible for the history of Talakadu and its temples. During this time, the temples were constructed and devoted to Lord Shiva.
The Ganga dynasty, which was renowned for its support of the arts and architecture, had Talakadu as one of its major centres. The temples of Talakadu are a superb illustration of the Ganga dynasty’s preferred architectural style.
The town of Talakadu also had a significant impact on South India’s political and cultural history. It was a significant centre of learning that drew academics and thinkers from all around the nation.
But Talakadu’s past also has a sinister edge to it. The town endured numerous invasions by various kings as well as frequent conflicts and wars. Talakadu was buried in sand dunes in the 16th century, which resulted in the temples being lost for many years.
In the 16th century, the temples were found, and work was done to bring them back to their previous splendour. The temples still maintain their original charm and architectural splendour despite having undergone several renovations and restorations throughout the years.
How to reach Talakadu temple
About 130 kilometres southwest of Bangalore, in the Indian state of Karnataka, is where you’ll find Talakadu. Visitors may easily get to the town by automobile or bus because it is well-connected to other areas of the state via road.
Here are a few options for getting to Talakadu:
From Bangalore or other neighbouring cities, travellers can take a taxi or self-drive to Talakadu. Depending on the amount of traffic and the state of the roads, the trip takes 3 to 4 hours.
By bus: There are frequent buses that travel to Talakadu from adjacent cities like as Bangalore, Mysore, and others. To get to the town, travellers can either use a public or a private bus.
By train: Talakadu is around 50 km from Mysore Junction, the closest railway station. Visitors can take a bus or a taxi to get to Talakadu from the railway station.
By air: Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore, which is located around 150 km from Talakadu, is the closest airport. To get to Talakadu from the airport, travellers can take a taxi or a bus.
When visitors arrive at Talakadu, they can either hire a local guide to help them traverse the town’s winding streets and historic sites or choose to explore the town and its temples on foot.
Best time to visit Talakadu temple
Wintertime, from October to February, is the ideal time to explore Talakadu and its temples. Temperatures between 10°C to 30°C are nice during this time of year. It’s the perfect time of year to explore the town and its temples because the days are sunny and the evenings are chilly.
The many festivals and events that take place in Talakadu during the winter months are also open to visitors. The Talakadu Panchalinga Darshana festival, which takes place once every 12 years, is a noteworthy occasion that attracts numerous guests from all across the nation.
Avoid travelling to Talakadu from March to May during the summer when temperatures can soar beyond 35°C and make it difficult to see the town and its temples. The monsoon season, which lasts from June to September, is also not the greatest time to travel to Talakadu due to the town’s frequent severe downpours, which can make the roads and paths leading to the temples treacherous.
nearby places to visit from Talakadu along with their approximate distance:
| Place | Distance from Talakadu (in kilometres) |
|---|---|
| Somnathpura | 35 |
| Shivanasamudra Falls | 45 |
| Mysore | 50 |
| Srirangapatna | 65 |
| Bangalore | 133 |
| Belur | 140 |
| Halebidu | 160 |
| Shravanabelagola | 165 |
stay option at Talakadu Temple
There are few places for tourists to stay in Talakadu, a small town in the Mandya region of Karnataka. However, adjacent cities like Mysore and Bangalore offer some excellent lodging choices for tourists. The following are some lodging choices in and near Talakadu for tourists:
KSTDC Hotel: Budget hotel KSTDC Hotel Mayura Sangama is situated close to Talakadu’s Sangama Temple. Basic services like a restaurant, room service, and free Wi-Fi are provided by the hotel.
T. Narasipura: About 18 kilometres from Talakadu, in the neighbouring town of T. Narasipura, is the Naveen Regency, a mid-range hotel. The motel provides basic amenities like a restaurant and decent rooms.
Mysore: About 50 km from Talakadu, in the nearby town of Mysore, lies a luxury resort called The Windflower Resorts & Spa. The hotel features cosy accommodations, a spa, a pool, and other contemporary amenities.
Taj West End: About 130 kilometres from Talakadu, in the city of Bangalore, there is a premium hotel called Taj West End. The hotel features large rooms, a spa, a pool, and other contemporary amenities.
upscale hotel, The Ritz-Carlton Bangalore, is situated in Bangalore, 130 kilometres away from Talakadu. The hotel features opulent accommodations, a spa, a swimming pool, and other contemporary conveniences.
In accordance with their interests and budget, visitors can select from these lodging options. To prevent any inconveniences during their vacation, it is advised that they make reservations in advance, especially during the busiest travel season.
frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Talakadu temple:
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is Talakadu famous for? | Talakadu is famous for its ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, known as Panchalinga darshana, which are believed to be submerged in sand dunes. |
| What are the main temples in Talakadu? | The main temples in Talakadu are Sri Vaideeswara Temple, Sri Maruleshwara Temple, Sri Mudukuthore Mallikarjuna Temple, Sri Vaidyanatheswara Temple, and Sri Arkeshwara Temple. |
| What is the legend associated with Talakadu? | According to local folklore, Talakadu is believed to have been cursed by a saint, resulting in the town being covered in sand dunes to protect the temples from invaders. |
| What is the architectural style of the temples? | The temples in Talakadu showcase the architectural style of the Hoysala and Vijayanagara dynasties, built using soapstone and featuring intricate carvings and sculptures. |
| How can I reach Talakadu? | Talakadu is located about 133 kilometres west of Bangalore, and the nearest airport is Mysore Airport, and the nearest railway station is Mysore Railway Station. |
| Are there any festivals celebrated in Talakadu? | Yes, Talakadu is known for its festive celebrations, including the Panchalinga Darshana, which is held once every 12 years, where the deities from the temples are taken out in a grand procession. |
| What are the temple timings in Talakadu? | The temple timings may vary, but generally, the temples in Talakadu are open from morning (around 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM) and evening (around 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM) for darshan. |
| What are the nearby places to visit from Talakadu? | Some nearby places to visit from Talakadu include Somnathpura, Shivanasamudra Falls, Mysore, Srirangapatna, Bangalore, Belur, Halebidu, and Shravanabelagola. |
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