Introduction
The Sri Prasanna
Gangadhareshwara Swamy Temple, located in Halasuru Pete (Ulsoor),
Bengaluru, is an ancient Shaivite shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva as
Gangadhareshwara, the bearer of the sacred Ganga. Believed to be around 400
years old, the temple was consecrated in the 16th century and later
restored by Kempe Gowda II, making it one of the oldest and most
culturally significant temples in Bengaluru.
Historical Background
- Built during the 16th century
with Manusha Pratishta (human installation).
- Renovated and restored by Kempe
Gowda II, ensuring its continuity as a spiritual hub.
- Over centuries, the temple has remained a place for devotees to seek blessings for health, prosperity, and spiritual well‑being.
Religious Beliefs &
Traditions
- Devotees believe that sprinkling Abhisheka
Tirtha (holy water) before digging wells or borewells ensures good
water.
- Unique funeral tradition: families
visited the temple for Deepa Darshan after final rites, symbolizing
peace for the departed soul.
- Sacred Peepal Tree & Naga Stones:
Worshipped for fertility, family welfare, removal of Sarpa Dosha,
and blessings for children.
Festivals Celebrated
- Navratri:
Nine nights of devotion to the Divine Mother.
- Maha Shivratri:
Night‑long worship, Abhishekas, and bhajans dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Karthika Masam:
Special deepa worship, Rudrabhishekam, and devotional gatherings.
Architectural &
Cultural Significance
- Preserves traditional Shaivite
worship practices.
- Features sacred trees, serpent
stones, and community rituals.
- Though modest in size, it holds
immense cultural and spiritual value in old Bengaluru.
Temple Timings
- Morning:
7:00 AM – 12:00 Noon
- Evening:
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Getting Here
- Location:
Halasuru Pete (Ulsoor), Bengaluru, Karnataka.
- Distance:
~9 km from Majestic (Kempegowda Bus Station).
- By Road:
Accessible via autos, taxis, and BMTC buses.
- By Rail:
Nearest station – Bengaluru Cantonment (~3 km).
- By Air:
Kempegowda International Airport (~35 km).
Tips for Devotees
- Visit during Maha Shivratri or
Karthika Masam for vibrant celebrations.
- Offer prayers at the Naga stones
under the Peepal tree for family welfare.
- Early morning visits provide a serene
atmosphere for meditation and puja.
- Respect temple traditions and dress
modestly.
- Combine your visit with nearby Ulsoor
Lake for a peaceful spiritual outing.
Why Visit Sri Prasanna
Gangadhareshwara Swamy Temple?
- Ancient 16th‑century Shaivite
shrine.
- Restored by Kempe Gowda II,
preserving Bengaluru’s heritage.
- Unique traditions like Abhisheka
Tirtha blessings and Deepa Darshan funeral rituals.
- Celebrated festivals: Navratri,
Shivratri, Karthika Masam.
- Located in the heart of Bengaluru,
easily accessible for devotees.