Devarayanadurga Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple

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Devarayanadurga is very close to the Tumkur district in Karnataka. Its name is “Devarayanadurga” when translated means “Fort of the God”. Although It had many other names, it was named Devarayanadurga when the ruler of Mysore, Chikka Devaraja Wodeyar, captured one of his victorious feats.

Mythological Importance of Devarayanadurga

Devnarayanadurga is steeped in mythological significance. It is said that Lord Brahma, has performed penance for many years in the name of Lord Vishnu for several thousand years. Impressed by his penance, Lord Vishnu incarnated here as Lord Narasimha.

In various mythological books, this place is described as a very sacred place, because there is a pond with holy water, which is believed to run through the Yoga Narasimha idol, which is still experienced today as one enters the entrance of the temple premises.

historical facts

The fort or temple is built in the Dravidian style and the temples are said to be around 2000 years old. The temple enjoyed the rich patronage of the Chola kings who stood out for their sculptural excellence. Two temples have been built here for Lord Narasimha, one at the foot of the hill called Bhoga Narasimha and the other temple built on the hillrock called Yoga Narasimha.

Temples to Explore in Devarayanadurga

Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple

The temple, built in the dravidian style of architecture, faces east and is said to have been constructed by Kanthirava Narasaraja I. From the inscriptions numbered Tumkur 41 and 42, we learn that the enclosure and tower were repaired in 1858 by the Mysore king Krishnaraja Wodeyar III.

Sightseeing in and around Devarayanadurga

Namada Chilume

Siddara Betta

Trekking at Devarayanadurga

Due to its natural rocky and hilly terrain, Devarayanadurga is a haven for trekkers and mountain climbers.

Situated amidst hill and dense forests, Devarayana Durga seems as though it has stepped right out of a picture postcard.

In the hilly terrain of Devarayana Durga, are various holy spots like the temples of Durga (Fort) Narasimha built by Mysore rulers in the Dravidian style of architecture, the Sanjivaraya temple dedicated to Hanuman and the temple of Kumbhi Narasimha. Near the Narasimha Temple are three sacred ponds called Narasimha Teertha, Parashara Teertha and the Pada Teertha. The Pada Teertha is inside a large cave. There is another cave with the statues of Lord Rama, his consort Sita and his brother Lakshmana. On going a little further from the hills, there is a natural spring called ‘Namada Chilume’. There are also some other springs nearby. The rivers Jayamangali and the Shimsha originate from these hill ranges. The place is quite cool in summer.