20 Historical Places In Kolar: Best Guide To Explore The Heritage

Are you like those people, who always get attracted to ancient buildings and monuments and try to find historical facts? Then, you are at the right place. 

Kolar, a district in Karnataka, India, is renowned for its rich historical and cultural heritage. From ancient Jain temples to other sacred temples like Kolaramma and Someshwara, Kolar offers a place of historical sites that attract history enthusiasts and tourists alike. This place is one of the best offbeat places in India, Karnataka has something for everyone.

In this blog, we will explore the top 20 historical places in Kolar, drive into their fascinating histories, and provide you with essential information on entry fees and timings. Whether you are planning historical tours of Kolar or just curious about Heritage sites in Kolar, this guide will help you uncover the best historical landmarks of Kolar.

Top 20 Historical Places in Kolar

1. Kolaramma Temple

If you are in search of Historical tours of Kolar, this temple needs to be added to your list. Kolaramma Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kolaramma, is one of the most significant historical places in Kolar. 

This place is built in the Dravidian architectural style, this temple dates back to the Chola dynasty. The temple is known for its beautiful carvings and inscriptions. You as visitors can witness the aura of ancient architecture and experience the spiritual ambiance. Significantly, The temple has a unique idol of Kolaramma made of black stone. Along with that, if you wonder regarding the Entry fees for historical sites in Kolar, it is mostly free in cost. And, if you seek suggestions on the Timings of historical sites in Kolar, try to visit within the first half of the morning. 

• Location: Kolar, Karnataka
• Timings: 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM

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2. Someshwara Temple

The Someshwara Temple in Kolar is a wonderful example of Vijayanagara architecture. This place is dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is believed to be over 500 years old. The temple’s intricate carvings and majestic pillars make it a must-visit for history buffs. The temple complex includes a large tank known as Kalyani. Your Historical tours of Kolar are incomplete without this place. 

• Location: Kolar, Karnataka
• Timings: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

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3. Antharagange Caves

Antharagange Caves are a series of volcanic rock formations located on the Shathashrunga mountain range. These caves are historically significant due to the ancient stone carvings and the presence of several temples within the caves. And, if you seek suggestions on the Timings of historical sites in Kolar, try to visit within the first half of the morning. Interestingly, the caves are believed to be part of a network of tunnels that served as a refuge during wars. 

• Location: Antharagange, Kolar
• Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

4. Kurudumale Ganesha Temple

Are you looking for the Best historical places in Kolar, then, we can assure you this is the one. The Kurudumale Ganesha Temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, is an ancient temple built during the reign of the Vijayanagara Empire. The temple is famous for its massive Ganesha idol, carved from a single stone. The idol of Ganesha is 14 feet tall and is considered one of the largest monolithic Ganesha statues in the world. 

• Location: Kurudumale, Kolar
• Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

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5. Avani Betta

Avani Betta, also known as Avani Hill, is a historical site with several ancient temples and caves. It is believed to be the birthplace of Lava and Kusha, the sons of Lord Rama. The hill is also home to the famous Sita Temple. The hill is often referred to as the “Gaya of the South” due to its religious significance. This is one of the Cultural sites near Kolar for historical significance. 

• Location: Avani, Kolar
• Timings: 7:30 AM – 8:30 PM

6. Kotilingeshwara Temple

Kotilingeshwara Temple is a unique temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is known for housing millions of Shiva lingams, making it a significant pilgrimage site. The temple complex holds the record for the largest number of Shiva lingas in one place. This is actually, one of the best historical landmarks of Kolar. 

• Location: Kammasandra, Kolar
• Timings: 7 AM – 8:30 PM

7. Chikka Tirupati Temple

The Chikka Tirupati Temple, resembling the famous Tirupati Temple in Andhra Pradesh, is dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara. The temple is known for its annual Brahmotsavam festival.

Can you believe, this temple is to be over 500 years old and attracts thousands of devotees every year. If you are looking for Best historical landmarks of Kolar, this is the one. 

• Location: Chikka Tirupati, Kolar
• Timings: 7:30 AM – 8:30 PM

8. Bethamangala Reservoir

Are you looking for Cultural sites near Kolar? Then, you can visit Bethamangala Reservoir once for its significance. 

Bethamangala Reservoir, also known as the Bethamangala Dam, is a historical site that served as a significant water source for the region. The reservoir is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a beautiful environment. Along with that, if you wonder regarding the Entry fees for historical sites in Kolar, it is mostly free in cost. 

Kolar historical tourism offers a unique glimpse into the rich heritage and ancient architectural marvels of the region, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts. The reservoir was built during the British era and continues to be an important water source. 

• Location: Bethamangala, Kolar
• Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

9. Bangaru Tirupati Temple

Bangaru Tirupati Temple is another temple dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara. It is known for its unique golden idol of the deity and the beautiful architecture of the temple.

The temple is often compared to the Tirupati Temple in Andhra Pradesh due to its similar architecture. 

• Location: Guttahalli, Kolar
• Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

10. Antara Gange

Antara Gange, also known as the “Ganges of the South,” is a sacred site with a natural spring that flows throughout the year. The site is popular for its caves, temples, and trekking trails. The water from the spring is believed to have healing properties and is considered sacred. 

• Location: Kolar, Karnataka
• Timings: 6:30 AM – 11:30 AM, 3:30 PM – 6:30 PM

11. Vijayapura Fort

Vijayapura Fort is a historical fort that played a significant role in the region’s history. The fort’s ruins offer a glimpse into the architectural brilliance of the past.

The fort is surrounded by lush greenery and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. 

• Location: Vijayapura, Kolar

Timings: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM

12. Kolar Gold Fields

Among the places to visit in Karnataka, Kolar Gold Fields, once a thriving gold mining town, is now a historical site that offers a glimpse into the region’s mining history. The site includes old mining equipment, buildings, and a museum. Do you know the Kolar Gold Fields was one of the deepest gold mines in the world?

• Location: Kolar, Karnataka
• Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM

13. Mulbagal

Mulbagal is a town in Kolar known for its historical temples and monuments. The town is home to several ancient temples, including the Someshwara Temple and the Narasimha Swamy Temple. Mulbagal was an important center during the Vijayanagara Empire. This is one of the Cultural sites near Kolar for historical significance. 

• Location: Mulbagal, Kolar
• Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM

14. Budikote

Budikote is a small village in Kolar known for its ancient temples and historical significance. The village is home to the Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple and several other ancient temples. Budikote is believed to be one of the oldest settlements in the region. 

• Location: Budikote, Kolar
• Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM

15. Virupaksha Temple

Virupaksha Temple is a historical temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. The temple is believed to be over 1,000 years old and is a significant pilgrimage site. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Virupaksha Temple, one of the most historical places in India and a stunning tribute to Lord Shiva

• Location: Virupaksha, Kolar
• Timings: 6:30 AM – 11:30 AM, 3:30 PM – 6:30 PM

16. Bangarpet

Bangarpet is a town in Kolar known for its historical significance and cultural heritage. The town is home to several ancient temples and historical sites. Bangarpet was once a major trade center in the region. 

• Location: Bangarpet, Kolar
• Timings: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM

17. Yeldur

Yeldur is a small village in Kolar known for its ancient temples and historical significance. The village is home to the Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple and several other ancient temples.  Yeldur is believed to be one of the oldest settlements in the region. 

• Location: Yeldur, Kolar
• Timings: 5:30 AM – 8:00 PM

18. Chandragiri Hill Jain Temples

Chandragiri Hill is home to several Ancient Jain temples in Kolar, known for their historical and architectural significance. These Ancient Jain temples in Kolar, dedicated to various Jain Tirthankaras, showcase the rich heritage and devotion of the Jain community.

The temples on Chandragiri Hill date back to the 9th and 10th centuries, during the reign of the Ganga dynasty. They were later expanded and renovated by the Vijayanagara rulers in the 15th century.

• Location: Chandragiri Hill, Kolar, Karnataka, India
• Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM

19. Kambadahalli Jain Temple

Kambadahalli, a small village near Kolar, is renowned for its Ancient Jain temples in the Kolar complex. The Kambadahalli Jain Temple is a prime example of early medieval Jain architecture and holds immense religious importance. We can say, that exploring the ancient Jain temples and other significant sites through Kolar historical tourism provides an enriching experience that highlights the cultural and historical importance of this Karnataka town

The temple complex was constructed during the Ganga dynasty in the 9th century. It served as an important center for Jainism in South India.

• Location: Kambadahalli, Kolar District, Karnataka, India

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20. Kondavangala Jain Temple

Kondavangala, located in the Kolar district, is home to another ancient Jain temple that reflects the region’s rich Jain heritage. This temple is a testament to the religious and cultural influence of Jainism in Kolar. The Kondavangala Jain Temple dates back to the 10th century, built during the rule of the Ganga dynasty, which patronized Jainism extensively.

The temple also features a unique stepped well and beautifully sculpted figures of Yakshas and Yakshinis.

Kondavangala Jain Temple serves as a historical and spiritual landmark, showcasing the Jain community’s contributions to the region’s cultural and religious landscape

• Location: Kondavangala, Kolar District, Karnataka, India
• Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM

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Kolar is a treasure trove of historical places and cultural sites, offering a rich blend of ancient temples, caves, and forts. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, Kolar’s historical landmarks provide a fascinating glimpse into the region’s heritage. Plan your visit to these heritage sites in Kolar and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this remarkable district.