Banashankari Amma temple , Bangalore

In this post ,we share our visit experience to Banashankari Amma temple at Banashankari , Bangalore . Located in Bangalore south , this spot is 12 kms from city center. This temple is just opposite to the Banashankari Metro station , a landmark , well connected from all major parts of the city.

Highlights of this temple

• Exactly about 100 years now. Temple was constructed in the year 1915.
• Goddess Parvathi in the form of Banashankari is worshiped here. It may be,  this spot was earlier a forest due to which it may be named after Vana/Bana which means Forest in Kannada and Shankari (Goddess Parvathi).
• Constructed by Basappa shetty and sons B.Somanna shetty devotees who believed to have brought the main idol from Badami , one of the heritage sites of India in Karnataka
• Idols of Banashankari , Ganesha , Shiva Linga and Navagraha are consecrated 
• Its believed any devotee who with due bhakthi prays to the goddess are sure of clearing their problems. Attracts devotees all over the city and is usually crowded
• Recently renovated in 2013.
• Surrounded by a Sante or the Villagers market where hawkers & farmers from nearby villages come together and sell their crops - making it a busy spot

Special poojas are conducted here during RaahuKaala which is usually not considered auspicious to perform any prayers activity. During Dasara - on all 10 days special decorations and poojas are conducted. 

Devotees offer prayers by lighting oil lamps placing the oil inside a lemon shell which is usually cut half and the pulp portion removed. Garlands of lemons are offered to decorate the idol.The renovated temple campus is huge and may easily accommodate thousands of visitors. There are special arrangements made for lunch and Prasadams. Special entry tickets for Darshan costing Rs.50 per person may help visitors who are in a rush.

Temple is open on all days between morning 6 AM to 1 PM and at evening between 4.30 PM to 8.30 PM. Special poojas are conducted on Tuesdays , Fridays and Sundays which attracts more visitors. 

There is a small Hanuman temple about 50 meters from this temple which is also believed to be as old as this temple. A very small Hanuman sculpture is carved on a rock which is being worshiped.

Overall a very nice spot to visit with family and friends and spend some time relaxing in the ample temple space. Do visit this spot and share your experiences.