Shrungagiri Shanmukha Temple - The Magnificent Hill Temple

Built atop a hill, the Shrungagiri Shanmukha temple, in RR Nagar, Bangalore is a compelling beauty. The temple was built under the blessings and instructions of His Holiness Sri Sri Sri Bharathi Theertha Mahaswamiji of Sri Sharada Peetham, Sringeri. It is one of the tourist and religious places to visit in Bangalore.

Shrungagiri Shanmukha Temple, Bangalore. Source Gpkp, Wiki — Shrungagiri Shanmukha Temple, Bangalore. Source Gpkp

Shrungagiri Shanmukha temple architecture

About 240 ft above the ground level, the Shrungagiri hill houses the temple dedicated to Lord Shanmukha. Shanmukha or the six-faced deity is also acknowledged as Lord Subramanya, Karthikeya, Muruga, etc. Undoubtedly an artistic marvel, the 123 ft high temple has a star-shaped structure. Its 62 ft gopuram has the six faces of the Lord, which are thick concrete moulded structures. The garbha gudi or the sanctum sanctorum, an outer prakara, and a devotees hall make the Shrungagiri Shanmukha temple.

Also, at either side of the entrance, there are figures of peacocks, the vehicle of Lord Shanmuga. Furthermore, a tall Trishul adorns the entrance. Along the stairway, there are shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesha and Lord Shiva. The temple was designed by Dr. R. Arunachalam as per the instructions of Sri Bharathi Theertha Mahaswamiji.

Unique aspects of Shrungagiri Sri Shanmukha temple

Set in a serene and soothing environment amidst lush greenery, the Shrungagiri Sri Shanmukha temple is worth the visit. Apart from its inviting environs, the temple boasts unique aspects that render a hi-tech appeal.

Crystal dome

A 42 ft unique crystal dome atop the six-faced gopuram will undoubtedly impress the visitors. The imposing dome is visible from a 10 km radius. The crystal dome disperses light and is a spectacular sight both during the day and the night. During the day the sunlight falls on the crystal, dispersing the colours of the rainbow. Also, post sunset, the crystal is illuminated by 27-watt LED lights, which emit 16 colour combinations of light forming 138 patterns. Around 2500 crystals are embedded in the dome each with a size of 1’ diameter.

Solar trackers

The solar trackers in the Shrungagiri Sri Shanmukha temple follow the sun’s path for maximum capturing of energy. They change their orientation throughout the day. Additionally, the roof of the temple has 2 horizontal and 2 vertical solar devices. These devices enable the sun’s rays to fall on the deity in the sanctum all through the day.