In the busy city of Bangalore, there’s a special place that’s calm and filled with spiritual vibes—the Shivoham Shiva Temple. Right in the middle of all the technology and city life, this temple is like a peaceful escape. It has a really interesting history and a calm atmosphere that makes it stand out. Whether you’re someone who likes to pray or just looking for a quiet spot, the Shivoham Shiva Temple has something for everyone. Let’s explore the magic of this special place, learn about where it came from, and discover what makes it so unique in the lively city of Bangalore.
Shivoham Shiva Temple History
- Consecrated on 26 February 1995 by Sri Shankaracharya of Sringeri, the temple was originally named Shiv Mandir.
- The idol of Lord Shiva within the temple was crafted by the skilled sculptor Kashinath.
- In 2016, the temple underwent a name change, becoming the Shivoham Shiva Temple.
- The shift in focus accompanied the temple’s dedication to aiding people in attaining Moksha by delving into the ancient Vedic texts and principles.
Shivoham Shiva Temple Features
- The temple entrance boasts a colossal 25-foot (7.6 m) Shiva Linga, marking it as the largest in Bengaluru city.
- The statue of Lord Shiva inside the temple is intricately designed, portraying the River Ganges flowing from his hair. The deity is seated in a meditative posture, holding his Damaru and Trishula, as described in the Shiva Purana.
- Adjacent to the impressive 65-foot statue of Lord Shiva stands a 32-foot statue of Lord Ganesha, inaugurated on 1 March 2003 by Dada J.P. Vaswani.
- Devotees often tie saffron-colored threads in front of Lord Ganesha, expressing their hopes for the deity to resolve their problems.
- Within the sanctuary, facing the idol of Lord Shiva, numerous healing stones are placed. Devotees engage with these stones, either by touching or embracing them, in anticipation of experiencing miraculous healing and blessings.
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- Recreations of the Shiva pilgrimages to Amarnath Temple and Barah Jyotirling Yatra are featured at the temple for those unable to undertake hard journeys with challenging climates.
- The Amarnath Paanch Dhaam Yatra at the temple offers a simulated experience, guiding visitors through a man-made cave on uneven, stony terrain reminiscent of mountainous regions. The journey mirrors the locations of the five holy Dhams: Haridwar, Rishikesh, Badrinath, Kedarnath, and Amarnath. A replica of the ice linga at Amarnath is also present.
- An artificial cave at the temple hosts recreations of the 12 Jyotirlinga, including Somnath, Mallikarjun, Mahakaleswar, Omkareshwar, Kedarnath, Bhimashankar, Vishwanath Temple, Trimbakeshwar, Baidyanath, Nageshwar, Rameshwaram, and Grishneshwar.
Shivoham Shiva Temple Bangalore Location
The Shivoham Shiva Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is located on Old Airport Road, Bangalore, India.
Shivoham Shiva Temple Entry Fee
Free Entry for Devotees:
- The Shivoham Shiva Temple follows a policy of inclusivity, allowing devotees to enter its premises without any entry fee.
- This approach aligns with the philosophy of providing spiritual access to all, irrespective of economic background.
Donations Welcome:
- While entry is free, the temple welcomes donations from those willing to contribute to the maintenance and development of the sacred space.
- Donations are voluntary and are utilized for the upkeep of the temple facilities, events, and community services.
Shivoham Shiva Temple Ticket Price
Free Darshan:
- The temple offers a ‘Free Darshan’ option for visitors, allowing them to witness the divine presence of Lord Shiva without any monetary exchange.
- This is a popular choice for those seeking a simple and meaningful connection with the deity.
Special Pooja Packages:
- For devotees looking for a more personalized and elaborate experience, the temple provides special pooja packages starting from INR 150/-
- These packages may include rituals, abhisheka (ceremonial bathing of the deity), and a guided tour with a priest, offering a deeper spiritual engagement.
Shivoham Shiva Temple Timings
Daily Schedule:
- The Shivoham Shiva Temple opens its doors early in the morning at 09:00 am allowing visitors to start their day with the divine energy of Lord Shiva.
- The temple maintains a structured daily schedule, including multiple pooja sessions, aarti, and meditation sessions.
Evening Aarti:
- The evening aarti (ceremonial worship with light) is a highlight for many visitors. The temple is adorned with lamps and lights, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere during this sacred ritual.
- The aarti is accompanied by devotional chants and bhajans, enhancing the spiritual ambiance.
Shivoham Shiva Temple Distance
Central Location:
- Situated in the heart of Bangalore just 12km from the city, the Shivoham Shiva Temple enjoys a central location that is easily accessible for both locals and tourists.
- Its proximity to major landmarks and transportation hubs makes it a convenient destination for spiritual seekers.
Surrounded by Greenery:
- Despite being in an urban setting, the temple is surrounded by lush greenery, providing a tranquil environment that contrasts with the city’s hustle and bustle.
- The temple’s location offers a serene escape without the need for an arduous journey.
How to Reach Shivoham Shiva Temple Bangalore
By Air:
- The Kempegowda International Airport serves as the primary air gateway to Bangalore. From the airport, visitors can hire taxis or use app-based cab services to reach the temple.
- The airport is well-connected to major cities, facilitating the arrival of devotees from different parts of the country and beyond.
By Train:
- Bangalore has a well-developed railway network, with major railway stations like Bangalore City Junction and Yesvantpur Junction connecting the city to various parts of India.
- Devotees arriving by train can easily hire local transportation, such as autos or cabs, to reach the Shivoham Shiva Temple.
By Road:
- The temple is well-connected by road, and visitors can use private vehicles, cabs, or buses to reach the location.
- The road network in Bangalore is well-maintained, providing a smooth journey to the temple for those traveling by car or bus. Also, KSRTC runs regular services to Bangalore from all the nearby cities.
Local Transportation:
- Once in Bangalore, visitors can use various modes of local transportation like autos, cabs, and app-based services to reach the temple.
- The central location of the Shivoham Shiva Temple ensures that it is easily accessible from different parts of the city.
In conclusion, the Shivoham Shiva Temple in Bangalore stands as a beacon of spirituality in the midst of a bustling metropolis. Its rich history, inclusive entry policies, and vibrant daily schedule make it a must-visit for those seeking a divine escape. The temple’s central location and accessibility further enhance its appeal, welcoming devotees from near and far to experience the sacred energy of Lord Shiva. Whether you are a spiritual seeker, a devotee, or simply someone looking for a peaceful retreat, the Shivoham Shiva Temple beckons with open arms, promising a transformative journey within its hallowed precincts.