kotilingeshwara Temple 2026 : Timings,Images & Reach

Located in Kammasandra village, about 15 kilometers from Kolar in Karnataka, the Kotilingeshwara Temple is one of the most unique and awe-inspiring spiritual destinations in South India . The name “Kotilingeshwara” literally translates to “the Lord of one crore lingas” (Koti = crore, Lingeshwara = Lord Shiva), and true to its name, the temple complex houses over 90 lakh (9 million) Shiva lingas, with devotees continuously adding more .

The temple was founded in 1980 by Swami Sambha Shiva Murthy, who envisioned a sacred space where devotees could express their devotion by installing Shiva lingas in their own names . The main attraction is a magnificent 108-foot-tall Shiva Linga, one of the tallest in the world, standing majestically alongside a 35-foot-tall Nandi statue placed on a 60-foot-long platform . The temple complex spans over 15 acres, with rows upon rows of smaller lingas arranged in neat patterns, creating a surreal and spiritually uplifting atmosphere .

The temple also houses shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Lord Brahma, and Goddess Annapurneshwari, making it a rare confluence of divine energies from the Hindu trinity . Whether you are a pilgrim seeking blessings or a traveler fascinated by architectural wonders, Kotilingeshwara Temple offers an unforgettable experience of devotion, scale, and serenity.

Kotilingeshwara Temple Overview Table

Kotilingeshwara Temple Darshan Timings 2026

The temple remains open throughout the day, giving devotees ample time for darshan, pooja, and spiritual reflection. According to multiple sources, here are the confirmed timings for 2026:

Some sources indicate that the temple may have a midday closure between 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM, while others state continuous darshan from 7:15 AM to 9:30 PM . It is advisable to plan your visit during the morning hours for the most peaceful experience.

Best Time for Darshan:

• Early morning (6:00 AM – 9:00 AM) offers the most serene atmosphere with fewer crowds
• Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends
• Maha Shivaratri sees massive crowds—plan accordingly if visiting during the festival

Daily Pooja and Aarti Schedule 2026

The temple follows a structured daily schedule of rituals that devotees can witness and participate in:

Pradosha Days: On Pradosha days (the 13th day of both lunar fortnights), special poojas and abhishekams are performed with greater fervor. These days are considered highly auspicious for Lord Shiva worship .

Darshan, Seva Tickets and Price List 2026

Entry and Darshan Fees

Important Note: The Linga Prathishta fee may vary; please confirm current rates at the temple counter upon arrival .

Linga Prathishta – Installing Your Own Shiva Linga

One of the most unique features of Kotilingeshwara Temple is that devotees can install a Shiva linga in their own name. This act of devotion is believed to bring spiritual merit, fulfillment of wishes, and blessings for prosperity and well-being . The lingas are available in various sizes (1 foot to 3 feet) and are installed in designated areas with a small plaque bearing the donor’s name .

This practice has been ongoing since the temple’s founding in 1980, and it is the reason why the temple continues to grow, with the ultimate goal of reaching one crore (10 million) lingas .

Online Booking for Darshan and Pooja

Currently, Kotilingeshwara Temple does not offer online booking facilities for darshan or special pooja services .

All bookings and offerings must be made on-site at the temple counters. Devotees are encouraged to arrive early, especially on weekends and festival days, to avoid long waiting times .

For inquiries, you can contact the temple authorities at:

• Phone: +91 84313 19758
• Address: Koti linga Temple Road, Kammasandra, Kolar District, Karnataka – 563121

The 108-ft Shiva Linga – World’s Tallest

The centerpiece of Kotilingeshwara Temple is the magnificent 108-foot-tall Shiva Linga, one of the tallest in the world . This colossal structure dominates the temple complex, visible from a distance, and serves as a powerful symbol of Lord Shiva’s infinite presence.

Facing this towering linga is a 35-foot-tall Nandi statue, representing Lord Shiva’s divine vehicle . The Nandi is installed on a platform measuring 60 feet in length, 40 feet in width, and 4 feet in height, creating a majestic view for devotees . According to temple lore, Swami Sambha Shiva Murthy was inspired by a divine vision to establish this unique shrine, and the construction of these massive statues was completed in the early 1980s .

The Sea of Lingas – A Visual Marvel

Spread across 15 acres of land, the temple complex features rows upon rows of smaller Shiva lingas, each installed by devotees as an act of devotion . These lingas range from 1 foot to 3 feet in height and are arranged in neat patterns, creating a mesmerizing visual experience .

As of recent counts, the temple houses over 90 lakh (9 million) Shiva lingas, with the ultimate goal of reaching one crore (10 million) . New lingas are added regularly as devotees continue to participate in the Linga Prathishta ritual. The sight of endless lingas stretching across the complex is both humbling and spiritually uplifting—a true testament to the collective devotion of countless pilgrims.

Other Deities within the Complex

In addition to Lord Shiva, the temple complex houses shrines for several other deities:

The presence of these deities makes the temple a complete spiritual destination, representing the unity of all forms of divinity .

How to Reach Kotilingeshwara Temple

From Bangalore (Primary Starting Point)

The temple is located approximately 90-100 km from Bangalore, making it an ideal day-trip destination .

By Road (Car / Self-Drive) – Most Convenient

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Start from Bangalore and take NH75 towards Kolar
2. Pass through Hosakote (approximately 30 km from Bangalore)
3. Continue to Kolar town (approximately 70 km)
4. From Kolar, drive towards Bangarpet and follow signboards to Kotilingeshwara Temple (about 15 km)

Alternative Route: Bangalore → Sarjapura → Maralur → Kolar → Bangarpet (roads are good but patchy in between)

Parking: Parking is available near the temple entrance but can get crowded on weekends and festivals; arrive early to secure a spot .

By Train

By Bus

By Air

• Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore (approx. 110 km)
• From the airport, take a taxi to the temple (2.5-3 hours) or travel to Bangalore city and proceed by road or rail

Distance from Major Cities

Nearby Attractions to Explore

Accommodation Options

The temple itself does not have on-site accommodation . However, several options are available in nearby towns:

Tip: Since the temple is easily accessible from Bangalore, many visitors prefer to return to the city after darshan rather than staying overnight .

Best Time to Visit

Season Guide

Festival Visits

• Maha Shivaratri (February/March): Most spiritually vibrant time; massive crowds; special poojas throughout the night
• Karthika Deepam (November): Festival of lights; temple beautifully illuminated
• Pradosham Days: Twice monthly; special abhishekam and poojas

Day and Time Guide

Important Visitor Instructions

Dress Code

The temple maintains a traditional and respectful atmosphere. Appropriate attire is required:

Temple Etiquette

• Footwear: Must be removed before entering the temple premises
• Photography: Allowed but requires a ₹100 camera fee; respect restrictions in the main sanctum
• Silence: Maintain peaceful conduct inside the temple
• Leather items: Not permitted inside the temple

What to Carry

• Sufficient cash (for entry ticket, camera fee, and offerings)
• Water bottle (especially during summer months)
• Comfortable footwear (to be removed before entry)
• Change of clothes if planning to participate in special poojas

Nearby Food Options

Tip: Many travelers stop for breakfast on the way from Bangalore and have lunch on the return journey .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What are the Kotilingeshwara Temple darshan timings for 2026?

A: The temple is open daily from 6:00 AM to 9:30 PM. Darshan begins at 7:15 AM after the morning aarti .

Q2: Is there an entry fee for Kotilingeshwara Temple?

A: Yes, the entry fee is ₹20 per person. Camera fee is ₹100 per camera .

Q3: How can I book darshan tickets online?

A: Currently, there is no online booking system for Kotilingeshwara Temple. All tickets must be purchased on-site at the temple counters .

Q4: What is the cost of installing a Shiva Linga?

A: Linga Prathishta costs approximately ₹7,500. This allows you to install a Shiva linga in your name with a plaque. The fee may vary—confirm at the temple counter .

Q5: What is the distance from Bangalore to Kotilingeshwara Temple?

A: The temple is approximately 90-100 km from Bangalore, with a travel time of 2 to 2.5 hours by road .

Q6: What is the best time to visit Kotilingeshwara Temple?

A: The best time is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. Early mornings (6:00 AM – 9:00 AM) offer the most peaceful experience .

Q7: Is photography allowed inside the temple?

A: Yes, photography is allowed with a ₹100 camera fee. However, maintain decorum and respect restrictions in the main sanctum .

Q8: What is the significance of the 108-ft Shiva Linga?

A: It is one of the tallest Shiva lingas in the world, installed by Swami Sambha Shiva Murthy in 1980 as a symbol of Lord Shiva’s infinite presence .

Q9: How many Shiva lingas are there in the temple?

A: There are over 90 lakh (9 million) Shiva lingas, with the goal of reaching 1 crore (10 million) .

Q10: What is the dress code for Kotilingeshwara Temple?

A: Traditional attire is required. Men should wear dhoti or shirt with trousers; women should wear saree, salwar kameez, or half-saree .

Q11: Are there accommodation options near the temple?

A: The temple does not have on-site accommodation. Basic lodges are available in Kolar (12-15 km) and Bangarpet (5 km) .

Q12: What is the contact number for the temple?

A: The temple contact number is +91 84313 19758 .

Temple Contact Information