About Karighatta Venkataramana Temple
Karighatta Venkataramana Temple is a hilltop Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Venkataramana, a form of Vishnu, located on Karighatta Hill near Srirangapatna in Mandya district, Karnataka. Situated about 3 km from Srirangapatna town overlooking the Kaveri River, the temple is known for its black stone idol, Dravidian architecture, and panoramic views. It is a significant pilgrimage site and trekking destination with historical associations to the Mysore Wodeyars.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a hilltop temple reached by climbing about 450 stone steps or via a motorable road to the summit. The temple complex features a Dravidian-style structure with a sanctum housing a black stone idol of Lord Venkataramana. The hilltop offers panoramic views of Srirangapatna, Mysore, the Kaveri River and surrounding countryside. The surroundings are rocky and forested with monkeys commonly seen along the path. Visitors can explore the main shrine, mandapas and viewpoints around the hill.
Key highlights
- 01
Hilltop location on Karighatta Hill at about 2695 feet elevation with panoramic views of Srirangapatna and Mysore
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Black stone idol of Lord Venkataramana (Vishnu) in standing posture
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Dravidian architecture with gopuram and stone mandapas
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Trek of approximately 450 steps to the temple, also accessible by road
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Scenic views of Kaveri River and confluence near Srirangapatna
History of Karighatta Venkataramana Temple
The temple is an ancient Vaishnava shrine believed to have existed for several centuries, with the present structure showing Dravidian architectural features and later renovations attributed to the Wodeyars of Mysore. The black stone idol of Venkataramana is traditionally believed to have been worshipped by sages. The hill and temple are historically linked to Srirangapatna's heritage as a former capital region.
Culture & Context
Dedicated to Lord Venkataramana, a form of Lord Vishnu (Venkateswara), the temple is an important pilgrimage centre for Vaishnavas in Karnataka. It is revered as Karigiri, one of the sacred hills associated with Vishnu, and attracts devotees especially during Vaikuntha Ekadashi and other Vishnu festivals. The hilltop setting is considered sacred and offers a traditional temple pilgrimage experience.