Marehalli Lakshmi Narasimha Temple

Marehalli Lakshmi Narasimha Temple in Karnataka is one of the finest examples of early Chola architecture in Karnataka. This is one of the most prominent Narasimha Temples in Karnataka.

Karnataka has been immensely blessed by the presence of many temples dedicated to Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy – the Lord of Protection. Every ruling dynasty has some or the way contributed to nourish the Narasimha culture in Karnataka.

Not just the dynasties, Lord Narasimha is commonly worshiped across the religious sampradayas. Ancient temples in Karnataka are not considered complete until the Deity of Narasimha is present in the temples. Out of hundreds of ancient temples of Lord Narasimha in Karnataka, Marehalli Lakshmi Narasimha Temple carves a special place for itself.

The Marehalli Lakshmi Narasimha Temple is situated in a very scenic spot surrounded by lush and thick green cover which endlessly spreads its beauty all around. Especially after the rainy season, the temple appears to be newly constructed although its history runs beyond centuries. The scintillating waters of Kaveri’s channel flowing right in front of the temple add to its charming beauty.

No one knows about the date of exact construction of the temple. The temple is said to have been first renovated by Raja Raja Chola. The Archaeological Survey of India dates the temple to be at least 1200 years old. The foundation Marehalli Lakshmi Narasimha Temple is said to have been built around 10th century AD.

The origin of Marehalli Lakshmi Narasimha Temple

As per the local folklore, long ago there were two sages named Suyajna and Lambakarna who undertook very severe penances in this place. As Lord Narayana is easily pleased by following austerities or Tapasya, Lord Narasimha became very much pleased by the devotion of these sages.

He appeared in the dreams of these sages and blessed them. He also agreed to reside in this place along with the sages to further bless His devotees. In the Vedic age, this place was known as Gajaranya Kshetra. The predominating Deity of this temple – Sri Lakshi Narasimha Swamy is also known as Marehalli Mudukappa and Sowmya Narasimhaswamy.

Lord Sri Lakshmi Narasimha is a very beautiful vigraha in this temple. This is almost a life sized vigraha with four hands. Mahalakshmi is seated on the left thigh of Lord Narasimha. The Lord is seated in a very peaceful mood. There is an amrutha kalasha below the lotus feet of Mahalakshmi. Hence if sincerely prayed, all the desires of devotees come true.

Other Shrines in Marehalli Lakshmi Narasimha Temple

As one enters the temple campus, on the right-hand side is Amriteshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple opens only once a year only. However, devotees can get a slight glimpse of Shiva-linga by peeping through the keyhole.

As one walks further towards the temple, just after entering the rajagopuram, there is a small temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman on the left-hand side. And Ganapati on the right-hand side. Behind Lord Lakshmi Narasimha at the corners of the prakara are the temples housing Thayar, consorts of Lord Narasimha.

Temple Timings of Marehalli Lakshmi Narasimha Temple

Marehalli Lakshmi Narasimha Temple functions as per the Vaikhanasa system of worship. The Sri Vaishnava archakas worship the Lord.

The temple timings are:

Morning – 08:00 am to 02:00 pm

In the evening the temple remains closed except on Sundays.

How to reach Marehalli Lakshmi Narasimha Temple

Marehalli is in the Mandya District of Karnataka. The temple is situated outside the town. To best relish this temple travel with Tirtha Yatra on the Narasimha Tours which are conducted every month on weekends.

If you wish to explore on your own, here the methods:

By Air – the nearest airport to Marehalli is Bengaluru International Airport. From here you may hire a taxi to reach the temple.

By Rail – the nearest railway station is Mandya Railway Station. It is well connected with Bengaluru and Mysuru Railway Station. From here you may either take a road or hire a private cab to reach the temple.

By Road – Marehalli is well connected by a road from Bengaluru and Mysuru. State Transport buses can be taken from either of the above cities to reach Mandya and from Mandya you may take a bus to Marehalli. You may also drive across the beautiful highway to reach Marehalli and be blessed with the darshan of the Lord.