Nanjangud is one of the oldest city in the southern India, it has history of more than 12 centuries. A peaceful city developed on the bank of river Kapila is wellknown for the temple of Lord Shiva. Shiva is also known as ‘Nanjundeshwara’ and so the name ‘Nanjangud’ to the city.
The Nanjundeshwara temple was built during 9th century by the Gangas (one of the prominent kingdoms in southern India at that time). And later in 13th century the temple was expanded by Hoysalas. The temple premises also includes few temples of Lord Vishnu, Goddess Parvati (Wife of God Shiva), Chandikeshwara, and 66 Nayannar statues. Eight foot statue of ‘Nandi’, the mythological vehicle of Lord Shiva was established within the themple premises during mid seventeeth century. The main ‘Shikar’ of the temple is approximately 120 foot and was built by the Third Krishnaraja Wodeyar during 1845 AD.
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The Main Shikar
posted by pqrshanth
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View from the river bank
posted by pqrshanth
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The river Kapila flows peacefully to the north of the temple (from temple to river its just 300 to 400 meters). Devotees visiting the temple usually take a dip in the river first and then they visit the temple.
Another wellknown thing about Nanjangud is the once famous ‘Nanjangud tooth powder’. This brand of tooth powder was so popular during post independece that for transportation itself a railway track was laid between Mysore and Nanjangud.
How to go there: Nanjangud is 20 KMs from Mysore (Approx 170 KMs from Bangalore). Plenty of buses plying Mysore and Bangalore. Better to avoid Mondays — favourite(!!!) day of Shiva, since number of devotees will be more on Mondays.
