Teru Malleshvara Temple, Hiriyur

Teru Malleshvara Temple is a Hindu temple in Hiriyur featuring a five-tiered tower on its southern side that marks the complex. Inside, metallic idol sculptures and hand-painted ceilings fill the worship spaces, creating a layered environment of religious art.

The temple was founded in 1466 when the region was under Vijayanagara Empire rule. A follower named Belavadi Hema Reddy Mallamma reportedly initiated its construction after receiving divine guidance.

The painted ceilings inside show stories from Hindu sacred texts that remain part of worship here today. Visitors walking through the inner spaces can see these colorful narratives painted above them.

The temple sits at an elevated location and is reachable by bus from neighboring cities. The local bus station in Hiriyur is the main arrival point for visitors coming to see the temple.

The temple's origins trace back to a stone grinding stone where a divine manifestation is said to have occurred. This sacred belief led to the site being called Dakshina Kashi, linking it to the pilgrimage traditions of Varanasi.

Location: Chitradurga district

Elevation above the sea: 630 m

GPS coordinates: 13.95000,76.62000

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:41