Ramalingeshwara Temple Complex

The Ramalingeshwara Temple Complex is a group of Hindu temples located in Avani village in Kolar district, Karnataka, about 30 km from Kolar town. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the complex comprises several shrines with lingas traditionally associated with Rama and his brothers. Built and expanded between the 10th and 16th centuries by the Nolamba, Chola and Vijayanagara dynasties, it exhibits Dravidian architecture with ornate pillars, carvings and stepped pyramidal vimanas, and is protected as a heritage site.

Visitors can expect a historic temple complex set on a rocky outcrop in Avani village, comprising multiple stone shrines dedicated to Shiva arranged within a walled enclosure. The temples feature Dravidian vimanas, carved pillars, mantapas and lingas. The surroundings include boulder-strewn hills of Avani Betta, open courtyards and views of the rural landscape. Visitors can explore the interconnected shrines, observe traditional worship, and see architectural details from different dynastic periods.

The complex was originally built in the 10th century under the Nolamba dynasty and later renovated and expanded by the Cholas and the Vijayanagara Empire up to the 16th century. It represents the evolution of Dravidian temple architecture in the Kolar region and is a protected monument of the Archaeological Survey of India.

The temple is an important Shaivite pilgrimage centre and is traditionally linked to the Ramayana, where Avani is believed to be the place where Rama, Sita and their sons Lava and Kusha stayed during exile and where Valmiki's ashram was located. Each shrine's linga is traditionally attributed to Rama and his brothers, and the site remains active for worship and festivals like Maha Shivaratri.