Kadalekalu Ganesha is one of the largest statues of Lord Ganesha that exists in the southern part of India. The shrine housing the statue of Kadalekalu Ganesha is situated on the slope of the Hemakuta Hill in Hampi. It is a remarkable monolithic statue and one of the most popular tourist sites in Hampi.
Quick Facts
- Timing: Open on all days of the week from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: No entry fee needed
- Photography: Allowed
- Visit Duration: 1 hour
- Best time to visit: From October to February
The unique name of Kadalekalu Ganesha, Hampi
The towering statue of Kadalekalu Ganesha has a height of 4.6 metres (15 feet). The giant statue was carved out of a single huge boulder. The belly of Ganesha has been chiselled in such a manner that it resembles a Bengal gram (known as Kadalekalu in the local language). Hence, the statue has been given the name of Kadalekalu Ganesha. It is one of the largest statues that exist in Hampi.
The attraction of Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple, Hampi
The temple of Kadalekalu Ganesha is a beautiful stone structure. The temple hall is decorated with tall and slender granite pillars standing in the hall. The pillars are decorated with various mythological characters and themes carved out on them.
The cubical pillars are constructed in the typical Vijayanagara style of architecture. The open hall of the temple leads to the inner sanctum where the tall statue resides.
The amazing view from Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple, Hampi
Being situated on the slope of the Hemakuta Hill, the temple presents a mesmerizing view of the surroundings. Visitors can enjoy picturesque views of the Hampi Bazaar and the Matanga Hill while standing in the hall of the Kadalekalu Ganesha temple.
The calm ambiance of the temple makes it a wonderful place to spend some peaceful moments admiring the beauty of the temple in particular and the surroundings in general.
How to reach Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple
Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple is one of the most visited destinations in Hampi. The location of the temple can be easily accessed by visitors from all parts of the ruined town.
By Air
Hampi has no airport of its own. Visitors can reach Hampi by air by taking a flight to the nearest airport situated at Bellary. The Bellary airport stands at a distance of about 64 km from Hampi. The airports at Belgaum (190 km) and Bangalore (353 km) are other options for you to reach Hampi by air. There are other means of transport to reach Hampi from the airports.
By Rail
There is no railway station in Hampi. The nearest railway station is located at the town of Hospet. Hampi can be easily reached from Hospet as there are frequent buses that ply between the two towns. There are also other local means of transport that connect Hospet to Hampi.
By Road
Hampi is well connected by the road network and can be accessed from several towns and cities by road. There are a number of buses that connect Hampi to the nearby places. Private cars and vehicles can also be hired from Bangalore or Mysore to reach Hampi.
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