Chandramouleshwara Temple – A Shiva Temple in Hubli
Chandramouleshwara Temple – Key Information Summary
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Chandramouleshwara Temple |
| Location | Sai Nagar, Near Unkal Lake, Hubli |
| Pooja Timings | 6 AM to 11 AM & 5 PM – 6 PM |
| Temple Timings | 6 AM – 6 PM |
| Entry Fee | FREE |
| How to Reach | By Air, Train, Road, Bus, or Car |
| By Air | Hubballi Airport (HBX) – 7 to 9 km from the temple, Rs.200 to Rs.300 for auto-rickshaw. |
| By Train | Hubli Railway Station – Rs.150 to Rs.250 by auto, or local bus to Unkal Lake. |
| By Bus | Hubli New Bus Stand – Rs.150 to Rs.200 by auto-rickshaw. |
| By Car | Use navigation apps like Google Maps. |
| Protected Status | Designated as a site of national importance under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958. |
| UNESCO Status | One of the oldest temples in Karnataka and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. |
| Attractions | Intricate carvings, two Shivalingas, two Nandi statues, and the Chaturmukha Linga. |
| Nearby Temples | Hanuman Temple, Siddappajjana Matha |
| Visitor’s Note | Temple surroundings are in poor condition due to neglect and land encroachment. It needs more attention and protection. |
Directions to Chandramouleshwara Temple in Hubli
The Chandramouleshwara Temple in Hubli is a 900-year-old marvel dedicated to Lord Shiva. Built by the Western Chalukya dynasty in the 11th and 12th centuries, this temple is a masterpiece of ancient architecture.
Its beautifully preserved sculptures and intricate carvings make it a must-visit for anyone fascinated by history and art that have stood the test of time. The temple is a beautiful site, situated close to the serene Unkal Lake.
Why Visit the Chandramouleshwara Temple?
- A Living History: Walk through a temple that tells the story of an empire’s ambition and artistry.
- Spiritual Solace: Experience the tranquility of a sacred space dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Architectural Wonder: Marvel at the intricate carvings and the enigmatic Chaturmugha Linga.
- A Call to Action: Witness the challenges of heritage preservation and be inspired to contribute.
How to Reach this Shiva Temple?
By Air
You can fly into Hubballi Airport (HBX), which has direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and other major cities in India.
The temple is approximately 7 kilometers from the airport if you take the Tolankere Lake Road (Shirur Park route). Alternatively, if you opt for the Gokul Road route, the distance is about 9 kilometers.
Expect to pay around Rs.200 to Rs.300 for an auto-rickshaw from the airport to the temple, as airport auto fares tend to be slightly higher.
By Train
Hubli Railway Station (UBL/SSS Hubballi Junction) is well-connected to various cities across India. From the railway station, you can reach the Chandramouleshwara Temple by auto or local bus.
Auto: An auto-rickshaw ride from the station to the temple should cost between Rs.150 to Rs.250 and can accommodate up to 3 passengers.
Local Bus: You can catch a local bus right outside the railway station. If you find a Dharwad-bound bus, get off at the “Unkal Lake” stop. Alternatively, take a bus to the Old Bus Stand, then transfer to a Dharwad bus and get off at Unkal Lake.
BRTS Chigri (Express Bus): Another option is to take the BRTS bus from the Old Bus Stand and get off at the “Unkal Lake” stop.
From Unkal Lake, the temple is about 1.2 kilometers away. You can either walk or take an auto-rickshaw, which should cost between Rs.50 to Rs.70 for up to 3 passengers.
By Road
Hubli is well-connected to major cities across India by road, including the Mumbai-Bangalore National Highway (NH 48), which runs through the city. This highway makes Hubli easily accessible whether you’re coming from the north or south.
By Bus
If you’re traveling by bus, you’ll likely arrive at the Hubli New Bus Stand. From there, you can take an auto-rickshaw to the Chandramouleshwara Temple, with a fare ranging from Rs.150 to Rs.200.
By Car
If you’re driving, simply use your favorite navigation app like Google Maps to get directions to the temple.
The temple features intricate carvings and sculptures and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Hindu architecture.
Chandramouleshwara Temple is also one of the oldest temples in Karnataka and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Protected Monument Status of Chandramouleshwara Temple
The Chandramouleshwara Temple has been designated a site of national importance under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1958, reinforced by the 2010 Amendment & Validation Act. This status underscores the temple’s immense cultural and historical value. Key protections include:
- Prohibitions: Destruction, removal, injury, alteration, defacement, or misuse of the monument are strictly prohibited.
- Penalties: Offenders may face imprisonment for up to two years, a fine of up to ₹1,00,000 (one lakh rupees), or both.
- Preservation: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) oversees the temple’s conservation, ensuring its legacy endures for future generations.
The Chandramouleshwara Temple is open from sunrise to sunset and admission is free.
Unfortunately, the temple is not wheelchair accessible.
I had the opportunity to visit the temple recently and want to share my story with some pictures.
The temple is built on a raised place and is decorated with carvings of gods and goddesses. The temple is also home to a large Nandi statue.
History of Chandramouleshwara Temple in Hubli
Nestled in the heart of Hubli, the Chandramouleshwara Temple stands as a silent witness to the grandeur of the Western Chalukya dynasty, a powerful empire that ruled between the 11th and 12th centuries.
Known for their architectural brilliance, the Chalukyas built temples not just as places of worship but as symbols of their might and cultural sophistication. Yet, the story of this temple is unlike any other—a tale of haste, mystery, and unfinished beauty.
The temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and is a popular tourist attraction in Hubli.
A Temple Built Overnight?
Legend has it that the Chandramouleshwara Temple was constructed in a single night. Yes, you read that right—one night. The Chalukyan artisans, driven by an urgent need to showcase their power, worked tirelessly under the moonlight. But as dawn broke, the temple remained incomplete. The intricate carvings and decorative features were left unfinished, as if time itself had pressed pause on their labor.
Today, the temple stands in a semi-finished state, a hauntingly beautiful reminder of its hurried origins. Yet, this “unfinished” quality only adds to its charm, offering a rare glimpse into the process of ancient craftsmanship. It’s as if the temple whispers to its visitors, “Look closely, and you’ll see the hands of history at work.”
A Sanctuary of Serenity
As I approached the temple, I was struck by its imposing presence. The raised platform, adorned with intricate carvings of gods and goddesses, seemed to rise from the earth like a divine creation. Two majestic Nandi statues stood guard at the entrance, their stoic expressions exuding a sense of timeless devotion.
Stepping inside, I was enveloped by an aura of peace. The walls and pillars, though partially unfinished, were alive with stories etched in stone. Each carving seemed to narrate a tale—of gods and demons, of creation and destruction, of love and war. The air was thick with history, and I couldn’t help but feel a deep connection to the past.
The Divine Chaturmugha Linga
At the heart of the temple lies its most sacred treasure—the Chaturmugha Linga, a four-faced Shiva lingam devoted to lord Shiva. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the temple, I watched devotees gather around the lingam, their faces filled with reverence. The young couple beside me whispered in awe, “It’s so beautiful.” And indeed, it was. The lingam, with its serene expressions, seemed to radiate a divine energy, reminding us of Shiva’s omnipresence.
The carvings on the walls are stunning. I make my way to the inner sanctum and offer my prayers to Lord Shiva.
A Conversation with the Past
As I wandered through the temple, camera in hand, I was gently reminded of its sanctity.
A man dressed in traditional attire approached me and said, “This is an ancient and sacred place. Please, only use your phone for photos.” His words carried the weight of centuries, and I immediately complied, switching off my DSLR.
He spoke with pride and concern, emphasizing the need to protect this 900-year-old marvel for future generations. His passion was infectious, and I left the conversation with a renewed sense of respect for the temple and its legacy.
Unfinished Beauty
One of the most fascinating aspects of the temple is its unfinished carvings. Half-completed designs and rough lines adorn the walls, offering a rare glimpse into the artisans’ creative process. It’s as if the temple is a canvas frozen in time, capturing the moment when the chisel met the stone. This unfinished state is not a flaw but a feature—a testament to the temple’s unique history and the dedication of its creators.
Some say, the temple was attacked by a few rulers in the past and that’s the reason for unfinished carvings. I’m not sure if that’s true or not, but there seems to be very limited information about this.
The temple is definitely worth a visit for any history lover or architecture enthusiast. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the past, and I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to see it.
The Holy 4-Faced Shiva Lingam
As the sun began to set, the devotees started making their way out of Chandramouleshwara temple. Among them was a young couple, who couldn’t take their eyes off the four-faced Shiva linga – Chaturmugha Linga (Chatur-Mukha Lingam)
“It’s so beautiful,” the woman whispered, as her husband nodded in agreement.
They had heard about the Chaturmugha Linga from friends and were excited to see it for themselves. They spent a few minutes gazing at the divine statue before making their way out of the temple.
I make my way back outside as well, feeling inspired by the temple and all it stands for. It’s a beautiful reminder of the rich history of India, and I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to visit it.
I clicked a few random pictures on my way out, determined to capture the beauty of the temple in its entirety.
Chandramouleshwara Temple cries for attention and preservation
Despite its historical significance, the Chandramouleshwara Temple faces challenges. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), tasked with its protection, has struggled to provide adequate security and facilities. Encroachments within the 200-meter prohibited radius further threaten the temple’s sanctity. It’s heartbreaking to see such a priceless heritage site cry out for attention, a reminder that preserving our past requires collective effort and awareness.
It is a real shame because this beautiful piece of architecture is slowly crumbling due to neglect. And it seemed like no one cared. The politicians seem really busy making grand speeches about preserving our cultural heritage. Meanwhile, everyday life carries on as usual for everyone except for this ancient temple.
It’s a crying shame because this temple has so much potential. It could be a major tourist attraction for Hubli-Dharwad, but instead, it’s been relegated to the background.
I could not find a “SINGLE” signboard of directions that mentions this great temple. Sad!
After reaching the temple area as directed by Google maps (even Google got confused) I had to get down from my car to inquire about the exact location with the locals around, who guided me to the temple.
Hopefully, things will change in the future and this beautiful temple will get all the attention it deserves. Till then, we can only hope and pray.
Around Chandramouleshwara Temple
There are a few more temples that are within walkable distance from Chandramouleshwara temple. If you are in the area, make sure to check them out too.
Hanuman Temple
The Popular Siddappajjana Matha
Final Reflections
As I stepped out of the temple, the setting sun bathed its ancient stones in a warm, golden light. I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for having experienced this timeless marvel. The Chandramouleshwara Temple is more than just a historical site—it’s a bridge between the past and the present, a reminder of India’s rich cultural tapestry.
If you ever find yourself in Hubli, don’t miss the chance to visit this extraordinary temple. Let its stories, its beauty, and its unfinished carvings inspire you. And as you leave, take a moment to reflect on the importance of preserving such treasures for generations to come.
Also, try to visit the nearby temples, they are worth a visit.
Furthermore, here are the most popular places that are a must-visit in Hubli, just in case you are looking to find other places, apart from temples.
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What a heartfelt post! It’s disheartening to see such a beautiful temple in need of attention and care. I hope this draws more people to appreciate its history and significance. Thank you for shedding light on this issue!