Nanjangud, officially known as Nanjanagudu, is a prominent industrial and temple town located in the Mysuru district of Karnataka, India. Situated on the right bank of the river Kabini, about 20 kms from Mysore, it is most famous for the ancient Srikanteshwara Temple (also known as Nanjundeshwara Temple), dedicated to Lord Shiva.
History and Significance
The town gets its name from the Nanjundeshwara Temple. 'Nanjundeshwara' means the Lord who drank poison (Nanjunda), referring to Lord Shiva who consumed the Halahala poison during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthana). The temple is of great historical importance. Even Tipu Sultan was a great devotee of this deity and referred to him as 'Hakim Nanjunda', reportedly making significant offerings after the deity cured his beloved elephant. The annual Car Festival (Dodda Jatra) draws hundreds of thousands of pilgrims from all over India.
Architecture
The temple exhibits a fine specimen of Dravidian architecture, featuring a massive gateway (gopura) adorned with intricate sculptures of various Hindu deities, large courtyards, and pillared halls.
Ancient Srikanteshwara Temple, River Kabini banks, Nanjangud Banana (GI tagged)
👕 Dress Code & Rules
Traditional modest attire recommended. Men may need to remove shirts inside the inner sanctum.
Free
Dedicated parking spaces available near the temple area.
Local South Indian vegetarian eateries and hotels available near the bus stand and temple.
6:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM