From ISKCON to Bull Temple: Exploring Bengaluru’s Divine Landmarks

Explore Bengaluru’s spiritual side with iconic landmarks like ISKCON Temple and the historic Bull Temple. Discover the stories, legends, and cultural heritage that shape the city’s divine identity—a guide for travelers and locals seeking soulful experiences in Bangalore.

Written by: Shivani Dixit | Published: November 26, 2025 | Updated: November 26, 2025
Image Source: Instagram/@iskconbangaloretemple

Bengaluru might be famous for its traffic, tech parks, and weekend cafés, but if you pause long enough, another side of the city emerges—a quieter, spiritual Bengaluru shaped by centuries-old traditions and devotion. Beneath the modern skyline, temple bells, incense, and ancient prayers mark the rhythm of daily life.

From towering gopurams to rock-cut cave shrines, Bengaluru’s spiritual landmarks offer more than just visual splendor. They preserve stories of kings, sages, miracles, and communities that have safeguarded these spaces through time. Here’s a journey through some of the city’s most iconic religious sites.

ISKCON Temple, Rajajinagar: A Modern Symbol of Devotion

ISKCON Temple is one of Bengaluru’s most visited spiritual landmarks, blending contemporary architecture with timeless devotion. Perched on Hare Krishna Hill, it welcomes thousands of visitors daily with its serene ambience, Vedic chants, and elaborate rituals.

Inside, the Radha-Krishna deities are resplendently adorned, and the corridors resonate with soothing bhajans. Join the aarti or sit on the cool marble floors, and you’ll discover a rare sense of peace, where the city’s noise feels worlds away.

Bull Temple, Basavanagudi: Where Nandi Guards the City

Long before Bengaluru became a megacity, Basavanagudi was home to a legend—a giant monolithic Nandi carved from a single black granite boulder. The Bull Temple, built during Kempegowda’s rule in the 16th century, remains a powerful spiritual symbol.

According to local beliefs, Nandi once grew bigger every year, prompting the placement of a metal harake (iron band) to restrain its size. Today, the deity still bears that band. Visit during the annual Kadalekai Parishe (groundnut fair) to experience a vibrant cultural festival that has thrived for over three centuries.

Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple: A Cave that Captures the Sun

Hidden in the heart of Gavipuram, Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple is one of Bengaluru’s oldest rock-cut shrines, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is famous for its rare astronomical phenomenon—during Makar Sankranti, sunlight passes through precisely aligned windows to illuminate the Shiva Linga inside the cave.

Kote Venkataramana Temple: A Slice of Vijayanagara in Bengaluru

Near the old Bangalore Fort stands Kote Venkataramana Temple, showcasing the elegance of Vijayanagara architecture. Built in the 17th century, it once served as the royal temple for Wodeyar kings visiting the city.

Its intricately carved pillars, detailed motifs, and tranquil courtyard offer a striking contrast to the bustling streets outside. Here, time seems to move at its own pace, inviting visitors to linger a little longer.

Dodda Ganesha Temple, Basavanagudi: The Mighty Ganesha Who Listens

Just a short walk from the Bull Temple, Dodda Ganesha Temple houses an enormous 18-foot-tall Ganesha idol sculpted from a single stone. During the Benne Alankara festival, devotees smear the idol with butter, transforming it into a glowing white marvel that draws thousands.

Locals visit before exams, interviews, or journeys, believing the deity removes obstacles with a gentle, parental warmth.

Banashankari Amma Temple: Where Devotion Meets Tradition

Dedicated to Goddess Banashankari, this temple is known for its deeply rooted rituals and bustling Tuesday crowds. Though the current structure is relatively modern, devotion to the goddess spans centuries.

During the Banashankari Rathotsava, the area comes alive with lights, chariots, and traditions cherished by generations.

Sri Someshwara Temple, Ulsoor: Older Than the City Itself

Sri Someshwara Temple in Ulsoor is a hidden treasure, believed to date back to the Chola period, making it one of Bengaluru’s oldest surviving structures. Ornate pillars, Yali sculptures, and a quiet mandapa narrate stories of a time long past.

Bengaluru’s spiritual landmarks offer a journey through devotion, culture, and history, reminding visitors that beyond the modern hustle lies a city deeply rooted in faith and tradition.