Kurudumale is a sacred place in Mulbagal, Kolar district. The temple is just 10 kilometers from Mulbagal town. Kurudumale is famous for the Ganesha Temple that has attracted people from near and far for years.
Home to one of the biggest idols, the Kurudumale Ganesha Temple has a 13-and-a-half-foot Ganesha idol installed within its walls. Said to be powerful, the deity is visited by people before the commencement of a new job or a new phase of their life.
It is believed that if a person with a pure heart asks for something in the presence of this majestic idol, they will achieve their wish and achieve great success. As Ganesha is believed to be “Vighnaharta”, he will clear all your hurdles, and his blessings are always welcome.
Festivals and weekends are the main times when crowds of people throng the premises of this beautiful temple. Ganesh Chaturthi is one of the grandest festivals celebrated in the Kurudumale Ganesha Temple.
An architectural marvel whose immense size will take your breath away, the temple’s infamous idol is said to be continuously growing. An optical illusion, nonetheless, it is one that must be witnessed firsthand. The temple provides one with a feeling of tranquility and peace; the power and positivity of Lord Ganesha that radiates can be felt by everyone.
Quick Facts about Kurudumale Ganesha Temple, Mulbagal
- Best time to visit: Between July and October
- Temple timings: 6.30 am -1.00 pm & 3.00 pm – 8.30 pm
- Entry Fee: Free
- Location: Mulbagal (MAP)
Legends of Kurudumale Ganesha Temple, Mulbagal
The Ganesha Temple has many little legends wrapped up in its gates.
Kurudumale was formerly known as “Koodi-Malai,” which in Tamil means “meeting hill”. Therefore, it is said that the Gods would come down from heaven to this spot, for a bit of fun and games, or recreation.
The idol of Ganesha in the temple is believed to have been installed by the trimurthis – Brahma, the God of creation, Vishnu, the God of preservation, and Maheshwara, the God of destruction. During the Satya Yuga, which is the first mythological era, Ganesha destroyed the demon.
Tripurasura, and this was the reason the Gods installed the idol in Kurudumale. They also conducted a Pooja and offered prayers to the deity.
Other legends also recount how Lord Rama offered prayers to the idol at this spot during his search for Sita. The Pandavas also offered prayers here before the final battle of the Mahabharata.
History of Kurudumale Ganesha Temple, Mulbagal
Originally under the rule of the Cholas, the temple area later fell within the boundaries of the Vijayanagara Kingdom. The influences of these dynasties are evident in the temple’s architectural elements. In fact, the Someshwara temple close by was constructed before the Ganesha temple and belongs to the Chola dynasty.
Inscriptions on the temple wall also provide evidence that the Kurudumale Ganesha Temple was built during the rule of the Vijayanagara Kings. The inscriptions are all in Tamil, and some even date back to the 13th century during the rule of the Hoysala Kings.
It was the mighty King Krishnadevaraya who built the temple. It is said that the huge Ganesha idol was placed in a field on the hill in Kurudumale, and for a very long time was worshipped in an open field.
Kurudumale Ganesha Temple: Nearby Attractions
Someshwara Temple
The Someshwara temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is said to be even older than the Kurudumale Ganesha temple. This majestic temple was built by the powerful Chola rulers. It has some outstanding aesthetic architectural elements. Built in the Dravidian style, the temple also features intricate carvings, some of which were half-done by artist Jakanachari. His son, Dankanachari, completed the rest of the work in the temple. The son’s carving work is said to be more delicate and elegant. Another interesting aspect is that the temple has no foundation as such and is essentially built of rock.
Anjaneya Swamy Temple
Located in the town of Mulbagal, approximately 17 Kilometers from Kurudumale Ganesha Temple, the Anjaneya Swamy temple is dedicated to Hanuman. According to legend, the temple was built by Arjuna, one of the Pandavas, after the Mahabharata war. The temple is said to be over 5000 years old.
How to Reach Kurudumale Ganesha Temple
Kurudumale is very easily accessible through various modes. It is well-connected by road or rail, not only to Bangalore but also to other cities in and around the area!
By Road
At a distance of 110 Kilometers from Bangalore, Kurudumale can be easily accessed from Mulbagal by road. State corporation buses also ply from various cities around the Kurudumale Ganesha Temple.
By Rail
To reach the Kurudumale Ganesha Temple, the nearest railway station is in Mulbagal taluk, Kolar district. This is about 11 kilometers from the temple and can be reached by road via autos or buses. There are passenger trains that run constantly between Hassan, Hubli, and Mulbagal.
By Air
Air travel, as always, can be a bit inconvenient, as the closest airport is the Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore. From there, road or rail modes can be arranged to reach the Ganesha Temple.
