Chokkanathaswamy Temple

Dating back to the 10th century, Chokkanathaswamy Temple at Domlur is amongst the oldest temples in Bangalore. Dedicated to Chokkanathaswamy (Lord Vishnu), it was built during the reign of Chola dynasty and displays an impressive Chola style of architecture. The main highlights of this shrine are the finely crafted sculptures and statues along with large pillars. On one of the pillars, devotees can see Vishnu’s dashavatharas (10 forms) etched beautifully. Besides, there are myriad Tamil inscriptions adorning the walls and pillars of the temple, where Domlur is referred to as Tombalur or Desimanikkapattanam. Chokkanathaswamy Temple has been renovated several times in the past few decades and at present, the idols of Lord Vishnu and goddesses Sridevi and Bhudevi in the garbhagriha are made of saligram stone brought from Nepal’s Gandaki River. Do plan a visit to this temple as you embark on the religious journey of this city.