Vakkaleri Markandeshwara Temple - splendid picnic destination near Bengaluru

In this post , we cover our visit experience to Sri Markandeshwara Temple at Vakkaleri about 75 kms from Bengaluru City.

Highlights of this spot

• Temple has a history of more than thousand years , believed to be constructed by Cholas
• Lord Shiva in form of Markandeshwara is worshiped here . 
• Believed to have links with Markandeya Purana. Markandeya - son of sage Bhrigu is said to have conducted poojas here & hence spot is named after his name.
• Temple is situated on a Hillock known by "Markandeya Hill / Betta"
• Other sanctums include Bhairaveshwara , Nandeeshwara Nandi idols

Our team took off to this spot on a Sunday weekend passing through Sarjapura - Chikka Tirupathi - Malur highway. On the Malur - Kolar highway there is a short diversion to reach this spot . There are two paths to reach the temple - one may park vehicle at the bottom of hill and trek using the stairs available , other takes you directly to the temple entrance. Zig zag road short drive to reach the hill top was joyful. 

Usually not crowded , we were the only 2nd group during the day - parked our vehicle in the ample parking space and passed through the Raja Gopuram. The beautiful temple complex has sanctums for main diety Shivalinga , Nandikeshwara , Bhaireshwara , Devi , a well pond , Dwaja sthambha & Mantaps. Construction resembled Cholas architecture. 

We took darshan of Shivling which was about 1.5 feet high , ahishekam pooja was being conducted by one family.  Environment is absolutely calm and good for meditation. We took rounds of other sanctums and started exploring the scenic nature around.

As this spot is a higher altitude , from hill top - nature scenic views are awesome. We relaxed in this shade having few snacks and started descending back. There are no shops in the nearby 1-2 kms - so one visiting should carry sufficient food supplies.

  

Due to less visitors , temple remains open only during Sundays , Monday & special occasions. Preferred time to visit is between 10 AM to 11.30 AM. Priest may be contacted on +919448116303 

Overall an awesome weekend destination to enjoy with family and friends group. Do visit this spot and share your experience with us.