Pataleshwara Temple

Pataleshwara Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Talakadu (Talakad) on the banks of the Kaveri River in Mysuru district, Karnataka. It is one of the five Panchalinga temples of Talakadu, historically buried under sand dunes and later excavated by the Archaeological Survey of India. Known for its sand-covered shrine and stone architecture, it holds religious importance and attracts pilgrims and visitors interested in heritage and archaeology.

Visitors can expect a historic stone temple partially surrounded by sand dunes on the Kaveri riverbank. The main shrine houses a Shiva linga and features simple Dravidian architecture. The temple complex is excavated and maintained, with sandy pathways leading to the entrance. The surroundings are quiet and arid with scattered temple structures nearby. Visitors can explore the sanctum, observe rituals, and view the sand-covered landscape characteristic of Talakadu.

Pataleshwara Temple is part of the Talakadu temple group dating back to the Ganga period with later contributions from Cholas, Hoysalas and Vijayanagara rulers. The temples of Talakadu were gradually buried under sand dunes formed by the Kaveri River and were later excavated and conserved by the Archaeological Survey of India. The site represents the historic temple town of Talakadu, once a prominent administrative and religious centre.

The temple is one of the Panchalinga temples of Talakadu - Vaidyanatheshwara, Pataleshwara, Maraleshwara, Arkeshwara and Mallikarjuna - revered by devotees of Shiva. It is an important pilgrimage site, especially during the Panchalinga Darshana festival held once every 12 years when devotees worship all five lingas in a single day.