Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple Marehalli – History, Architecture, Festivals & Travel Guide

Location

Village: Marehalli
District: Tumkur, Karnataka
Nestled in a serene setting, the temple is a prominent Vaishnavite shrine in southern Karnataka.

Architecture

Style: Vijayanagara influence with traces of earlier Hoysala craftsmanship.
Mahadvara: A massive gateway in Vijayanagara style.
Layout:

Encircled by 108 pillars and ankanas.
Deities Bhoodevi and Neeladevi are venerated alongside Lakshmi Narasimha.
Shukanasini Mantapa: Depicts Goddess Lakshmi seated on the left lap of Lord Narasimha.

History & Legends

Period: Believed to have been built in the 12th century AD under the Hoysala dynasty.
Restorations: Later expanded and repaired during Vijayanagara times and subsequent centuries.
Legendary Belief: The temple is considered a powerful seat of Lord Narasimha, worshipped for protection and prosperity.

Festivals

Celebrated in honor of Lord Lakshmi Narasimha.
A grand event attracting thousands of devotees from Karnataka and neighboring states.
Includes flag hoisting, temple car procession, music, and cultural programs.

Other Vaishnavite observances like Vaikunta Ekadashi and Narasimha Jayanti are also celebrated.

Beliefs

Devotees believe worship here grants courage, protection from evil, and prosperity.
The presence of Goddess Lakshmi with Narasimha emphasizes divine grace and wealth.
The 108-pillared hall symbolizes completeness and cosmic order, enhancing spiritual merit.

Timings

9.00 am to 2.00 pm

Getting Here

From Malavalli Government Bus Stand, local autos or buses can take you directly to the temple.
Tumkur and Mandya towns are well connected by road; Marehalli lies between them.

By Rail: Nearest railway stations are Mandya and Mysuru, with onward road travel to Malavalli.
By Air: Closest airport is Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (~120 km).

Tips

Best Time to Visit: During the annual Brahmotsava festival, or on Narasimha Jayanti for a vibrant spiritual atmosphere.
Dress Code: Traditional attire is recommended; modest clothing is expected inside the temple.
Plan Morning Travel: Since darshan closes by early afternoon, start early from Bengaluru or Mysuru.
Local Food & Stay: Malavalli has basic eateries and lodges; for better facilities, stay at Mandya or Mysuru.
Combine Visits: You can pair this trip with nearby temples like Sri Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple (Melkote) or Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple (Srirangapatna) for a Vaishnavite circuit.