Lepakshi

Lepakshi is a small temple town, popular for its Veerabadhra temple, just about 125 kms from Bengaluru, across the border in Anantapura district of Andhra Pradesh. The roads are wide, deserted and you will be able to enjoy your drive to Lepakshi.Once across the border into Andhra Pradesh, take left immediately after the commercial tax checkposts. (This turn is easy to miss if you keep cruising on the highway- slow down as you enter Andhra Pradesh) As you approach Lepakshi a giant Nandi statue welcomes you.

This Nandi is carved out of single granite stone, 4.5 meters in height and twice as long. The Nandi sculpture also features a nice bell chain, earrings and other ornaments on it. Located at about 200 meters facing the temple, this Nandi is said to be one of the largest monolith in India.

Veerabhadra temple is the primary attraction in Lepakshi. Constructed in Vijayanagar style, temple complex houses several interesting bits of stone constructions- such as hanging pillar and rock chain. Take local help to locate these or hire a guide. Paintings of the olden times, drawn using natural pigments is another thing to watch out for. Still intact they tell stories of bygone era. Take a closer look at temple walls that depict stories of Ramayana and Mahabharath. Around the main temple are few smaller temples dedicated to lord Ganesha, Shiv and others. Temple complex is worth spending some quality time in.