About Nageshvara Temple, Begur
The Nageshvara temple complex, locally called Naganatheshvara, stands in the old village of Begur, now part of south Bengaluru near Electronic City and Begur lake. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the oldest temple complexes within the city's limits. The complex holds several shrines from different periods, but its two oldest shrines date back more than a thousand years, to the rule of the Western Ganga dynasty. For people interested in Bengaluru's history, it is a place of special importance.
Historians date the two earliest shrines to the reigns of the Western Ganga kings Ereganga Nitimarga I and Nitimarga II in the 9th and early 10th centuries, while other shrines were added later under the Cholas, Hoysalas and the Vijayanagara rulers. In this temple the epigraphist R. Narasimhachar found an Old Kannada inscription of about 890 CE that mentions a battle at a place called Bengaluru, the earliest known reference to the city's name. Local tradition also links the temple to Ravana, who is said to have worshipped Nageshvara on his way back to Lanka.
The Nageshvara shrine has a simple square sanctum with a linga, a vestibule, a closed hall and an open hall with plain granite pillars. A Nandi sits on a lotus platform in the outer hall. The ceilings show typical Western Ganga work, with panels of the guardian deities of the eight directions around a central image of Uma-Maheshvara. Sculptures of Mahishasuramardini, a two-armed Ganesha and Kalabhairava are kept in the halls, and the doorway is carved with creepers, attendants and Gajalakshmi.
Nageshvara Temple, Begur timings & aarti
Usually open from early morning to evening, with a break in the afternoon at many times of the year. Check locally before visiting.
| Aarti / ritual | Time |
|---|---|
| Morning puja | Early morning (approx.) |
| Evening puja | At sunset (approx.) |
Timings change on festivals, eclipses and special days. Please confirm locally before you travel.
How to reach Nageshvara Temple, Begur
By air
Kempegowda International Airport is about 50 km away.
By train
KSR Bengaluru City station is about 20 km away; smaller suburban stations such as Heelalige and Carmelaram are closer.
By road
Begur is reached by Begur Road from Bannerghatta Road or Hosur Road; city buses, autos and cabs are easily available.
Festivals at Nageshvara Temple, Begur
- Maha ShivaratriFeb/Mar
- UgadiMar/Apr
- Kartika monthNov/Dec
Visitor tips
- Dress code
- Modest, traditional clothing is recommended.
- Entry
- Free entry.
- Look for the inscription stones in the complex, which tell the story of early Bengaluru.
- Weekday mornings are quiet and good for a slow look at the carvings.
- Traffic on the approach roads can be heavy at peak hours; plan your timing.
- Combine the visit with a walk by Begur lake nearby.
Places to visit near Nageshvara Temple, Begur
- Begur LakeLarge lake with a Shiva statue on an island, about 1 km away
- Electronic CityIT hub of south Bengaluru, about 7 km away
- Bannerghatta Biological ParkZoo and safari park, about 15 km away
- Dodda Basavana Gudi (Bull Temple)Historic Nandi temple in Basavanagudi, about 15 km away
Frequently asked questions
Why is Begur Nageshvara Temple famous?
It is a Western Ganga-period temple, and an inscription of about 890 CE found here has the earliest known mention of the name Bengaluru.
How old is the Nageshvara Temple in Begur?
Its oldest shrines date to the 9th and early 10th centuries, with later additions by other dynasties.
Which deity is worshipped at Begur temple?
Lord Shiva is worshipped as Nageshvara, also called Naganatheshvara locally.
How to reach Begur Nageshvara Temple?
Begur is in south Bengaluru near Electronic City and can be reached by city buses, autos or cabs from Hosur Road or Bannerghatta Road.
What is the aarti time at Nageshvara Temple, Begur?
Morning puja: Early morning (approx.); Evening puja: At sunset (approx.). Times can change on festivals and special days, so please confirm locally before you go.
What are the Nageshvara Temple, Begur timings?
Usually open from early morning to evening, with a break in the afternoon at many times of the year. Check locally before visiting.
Is there a dress code at Nageshvara Temple, Begur?
Modest, traditional clothing is recommended.
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