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Sri Gopalaswamy Temple

The Sri Gopalaswamy Temple in Chitradurga, Karnataka, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, worshiped here as Gopalaswamy, the divine cowherd. The temple reflects the deep cultural and spiritual heritage of the region and serves as a significant center for Vaishnavite traditions.

Timings

8.30 AM TO 4.00PM

Entry Fee

No Entry Fee

Early Dynastic Contributions:


Rashtrakutas and Chalukyas: 


  1. The origins of the Chitradurga Fort date back to the 10th century when it was initially constructed by the Rashtrakutas. 
  2. The Chalukyas, who followed, also contributed to the fort's expansion and fortification. 
  3. Although there is no specific record of the exact date when the Gopalaswamy Temple was built, it is believed that its earliest structures might have been established during these periods.


Expansion and Patronage:


Hoysalas: 


  1. The Hoysalas, who ruled in the 12th and 13th centuries, further contributed to the fort and possibly to the temple's development.
  2.  The Hoysala architectural style, known for its intricate carvings and detailed sculptures, might have influenced the temple's design.


Nayakas of Chitradurga:



  1. The most significant period of expansion and patronage for the Gopalaswamy Temple came under the Nayakas of Chitradurga, also known as the Palegar Nayakas, who ruled from the 16th to the 18th centuries. 
  2. The Nayakas were great patrons of art, culture, and religion. They are credited with the major enhancements and the current form of the temple as seen today.

Do's and Don'ts

  1. Dress modestly: Respect the temple's sanctity by dressing appropriately. Avoid revealing or skimpy clothing.
  2. Remove footwear: Before entering the temple's inner sanctum, remove your footwear as a sign of respect.
  3. Maintain silence: Keep your voice low and avoid creating a disturbance. Respect the peaceful atmosphere of the temple.
  4. Seek blessings: Seek blessings from the temple priest if desired.
  5. Contribute to the temple: If you are able, consider making a donation to the temple's upkeep.


  1. Consume non-vegetarian food: Avoid bringing or consuming non-vegetarian food inside the temple premises.
  2. Consume alcohol or smoke: Refrain from consuming alcohol or smoking anywhere within the temple complex.
  3. Litter: Keep the temple premises clean and dispose of waste responsibly.
  4. Misbehave: Avoid any disrespectful or disruptive behaviour.
  5. Take photographs without permission: Ask for permission before taking photographs, especially in areas where photography may be restricted.
  6. Touch idols or sacred objects: Avoid touching idols or sacred objects without permission.
  7. Enter restricted areas: Do not enter areas marked as restricted or off-limits.
  8. Disrespect the temple's sanctity: Maintain a respectful demeanour throughout your visit.


Dress Code

  1. Wear loose-fitting clothing that will allow you to move comfortably.
  2. Avoid wearing clothes that are too revealing, such as shorts, skirts that are above the knee, or low-cut shirts.


How to reach

By Air:

The nearest airport to Chitradurga is the Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore, which is about 200 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Chitradurga.


By Train:

Chitradurga has a railway station connected to major cities in Karnataka. You can take a train to Chitradurga Railway Station and then hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.


By Road:

Chitradurga is well-connected by road to major cities in Karnataka.

  1. From Bangalore: You can take NH48 (Bangalore-Pune Highway) and NH50 to reach Chitradurga. The distance is approximately 200 km, and it takes about 3-4 hours by car.
  2. From Mysore: The distance is around 245 km via NH150A and NH50, taking around 5-6 hours by car.

There are also regular bus services from Bangalore, Mysore, and other cities in Karnataka to Chitradurga.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Rivers:


  1. Varada River: 20 kilometres away
  2. Hemavati River: 30 kilometres away
  3. Tungabhadra River: 40 kilometres away


Cities:



  1. Davangere: 60 kilometres away
  2. Shivamogga: 100 kilometres away
  3. Hampi: 120 kilometres away