Badavilinga Temple - Thuparama Seya - ථූපාරාම සෑය
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Badavilinga Temple

4.7
·1k reviews·Hampi, India

Hampi's largest monolithic Shiva Linga, perpetually submerged in a mystical water-filled pedestal, offering a serene spiritual experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful and cool atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Badavilinga Temple - Thuparama Seya - ථූපාරාම සෑය

Badavilinga Temple

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful and cool atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Hampi's largest monolithic Shiva Linga, perpetually submerged in a mystical water-filled pedestal, offering a serene spiritual experience.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"A powerful and peaceful spot, home to Hampi's largest monolithic Shiva Linga, unique for its simple setting and base perpetually submerged in water."

Vertical photo
TIP

💧 Water Source Mystery

The water source feeding the linga's pedestal is unknown, adding to the temple's mystique.

🚶‍♀️ Combine with Narasimha

Visit Badavilinga Temple alongside the nearby Lakshmi Narasimha Temple for a complete experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Monolithic Shiva Linga

Monolithic Shiva Linga

Main Shrine

Hampi's largest Shiva Linga, carved from a single black stone, stands majestically in a water-filled pedestal.

Submerged Pedestal

Submerged Pedestal

Base of the Linga

The linga is perpetually surrounded by water, creating a unique spiritual and visual spectacle.

Proximity to Lakshmi Narasimha Temple

Proximity to Lakshmi Narasimha Temple

Adjacent Area

Easily combined with a visit to the nearby, impressive Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, offering a fuller Hampi experience.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Badavilinga Temple

To experience the serene atmosphere of Badavilinga Temple, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. This avoids the midday heat and the peak crowds, allowing for a more peaceful contemplation of the monolithic Shiva Linga. Consider visiting during weekdays for fewer visitors.

Respectful Attire and Conduct

As a sacred site, dress modestly when visiting Badavilinga Temple. Cover your shoulders and knees. Remember to remove your footwear before entering the temple premises. Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor to honor the spiritual significance of the place.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Peaceful and cool atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light on stone
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Hampi, the legendary lost city was one of the greatest empires in India 😱 brb whilst we spend hours on street view 🔎 search 'Hampi: the saga of a lost city' on Google Arts & Culture to explore more of Hampi's rich history #GoogleArtsandCulture #UNESCO #Hampi #VijayanagaraEmpire #LearnOnTikTok #historytok #streetview
@googleartsculture
8.3K likes • 1.7M views

💧 Water Source Mystery

The water source feeding the linga's pedestal is unknown, adding to the temple's mystique. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Combine with Narasimha

Visit Badavilinga Temple alongside the nearby Lakshmi Narasimha Temple for a complete experience. Instagram

The Badavilinga Temple in Hampi has the largest monolithic Shiva Linga in Hampi. The Shiva Linga has a three eye mark drawn on it in line carving. The three eye mark depicts the three eyes of Prabhu Shiva. The beautiful Linga is made of black stone. It has a height of 3 meters. It is believed that the temple has been in existence since the period of the Vijayanagara Empire. Devotees come here fro...
findingtemples
89.1K likes • 952.6K views
Badavilinga Temple is a wonderful temple in Hampi dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Hindu deity Shiva is worshipped in the form of a Linga in this temple. The Badavilinga temple is located near the Lakshmi Narasimha Temple. Tourists as well as devotees flock to the temple throughout the year. According to Sthala Puran, The name Badavilinga is a combination of two words – Badva and Linga. In the local ...
wandering_journey_of_my_soul
7.5K likes • 48.2K views

🙏 Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this sacred site. Instagram

👟 Remove Footwear

Always take off your shoes before entering the temple area. Instagram

Legend says a poor woman built this Shiva Linga after her wish for a child was fulfilled. It still stands as Hampi’s largest Shiva Linga. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #shiva #linga #hampỉ #hidden #hiddengems #tallest #explore
traveltechjunkie
53 likes • 2.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

💧 Water Source Mystery

The water source feeding the linga's pedestal is unknown, adding to the temple's mystique. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Combine with Narasimha

Visit Badavilinga Temple alongside the nearby Lakshmi Narasimha Temple for a complete experience. Instagram

🙏 Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this sacred site. Instagram

👟 Remove Footwear

Always take off your shoes before entering the temple area. Instagram

📸 Capture the Aura

The interplay of light and water on the linga is a photographer's delight. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Badavilinga Temple for its powerful spiritual atmosphere and the awe-inspiring monolithic Shiva Linga, uniquely set in a water-filled pedestal. The peaceful ambiance and the historical significance of this ancient site are frequently highlighted as major draws, making it a must-visit in Hampi.

"Shree Badavilinga Gudi in Hampi is a powerful and peaceful spot, home to Hampi's largest monolithic Shiva Linga. Carved from a single stone, it's unique for its simple setting and base perpetually submerged in water. It's a "strong" testament to devotion and a "happy" place for its serene, spiritual vibe.🙏🙏🙏"

Rahul P

"Badavilinga is a large stone Shiva Linga in Hampi, placed inside a small temple. It is made from one big rock and always has water around its base. The place is peaceful and shows the strong spiritual side of Hampi. A good spot for those who enjoy ancient temples and calm surroundings."

Pratik Kumar Mishra

"The Badavilinga Temple is truly mesmerizing. The massive Shiva Linga, carved out of a single stone, is awe-inspiring in its sheer size and presence. What makes it even more special is that it stands in a pool of water, constantly fed by the Tungabhadra river — a detail that adds to its spiritual aura.

Even after centuries, the linga is worshipped to this day, and standing before it, you can feel a sense of reverence and stillness. The play of light and water reflections on the stone make it a sight you won’t easily forget."

Krithika Saptarishi

What People Like

Massive monolithic Shiva Linga
Peaceful, spiritual vibe
Unique water-filled pedestal

What People Dislike

Can get crowded at peak times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Badavilinga Temple is located in Hampi, Karnataka, India. It's easily accessible by auto-rickshaw or by foot if you're exploring the Hampi Bazaar area. Many visitors combine it with a tour of other Hampi sites like the Lakshmi Narasimha Temple. Instagram

Yes, Badavilinga Temple is a common stop on most Hampi tours, often visited alongside the Lakshmi Narasimha Temple and other key archaeological sites. Instagram

Many travelers opt for auto-rickshaws for a convenient way to cover multiple Hampi attractions, including Badavilinga Temple. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Badavilinga Temple is generally free, as it's an open-air temple and a place of worship. However, there might be nominal charges for vehicle parking. Reddit

Badavilinga Temple is typically open from sunrise to sunset, allowing visitors to experience its spiritual ambiance throughout the day. Reddit

No, there is no specific entry fee for Badavilinga Temple. It's a sacred site open to all. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Shiva Linga at Badavilinga Temple is Hampi's largest monolithic linga, carved from a single black stone and standing in a perpetually water-filled pedestal, creating a unique spiritual sight. InstagramReddit

The exact source of the water is a mystery, but it's believed to be a natural spring or a cleverly designed ancient water channel, adding to the temple's mystique. Reddit

As a sacred idol, it's best to observe the Shiva Linga respectfully from a distance and avoid touching it. Reddit

Legend suggests a poor woman built this Shiva Linga after her wish for a child was fulfilled, and it remains Hampi's largest Shiva Linga. Instagram

Yes, the unique setting of the linga in water, especially during golden hour, makes it a very photogenic spot. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Hampi Bazaar, located nearby, offers various local eateries and restaurants serving South Indian cuisine. You can find options ranging from simple dhabas to more established restaurants. Instagram

Expect traditional South Indian vegetarian dishes like dosas, idlis, thalis, and rice preparations. Many places also offer snacks and beverages. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The most iconic shot is of the Shiva Linga with its water-filled pedestal. The surrounding ancient architecture and the play of light on the stone are also great subjects. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light, with softer shadows and a warmer glow on the stone structures. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed, but it's always respectful to be mindful of devotees and avoid intrusive shots. Tripods might be restricted in certain areas. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Badavilinga Temple offers a unique visual experience for families. The sight of the large Shiva Linga submerged in water is often captivating for children. While the temple itself is a place for quiet contemplation, the surrounding areas of Hampi have more space for kids to explore.

Tips for families: Combine your visit with the nearby Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, which features a giant statue that can spark curiosity. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as facilities can be limited. Consider an auto-rickshaw tour to make navigating between sites easier and more engaging for younger travelers. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Backpackers

For solo travelers, Badavilinga Temple offers a moment of profound peace and reflection amidst the bustling exploration of Hampi. It's a perfect spot to pause, absorb the spiritual energy, and appreciate the ancient artistry. The temple's accessibility and its inclusion in most Hampi itineraries make it easy to incorporate into your independent journey.

Solo traveler tips: Engage with local auto-rickshaw drivers; they often have fascinating stories about Hampi's history and legends. Use the opportunity to practice mindfulness or meditation by the water. Badavilinga is also a great place to meet fellow travelers who are equally awestruck by Hampi's wonders. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Badavilinga Temple is a dream for photographers, especially those interested in ancient architecture and spiritual sites. The monolithic Shiva Linga, perpetually surrounded by water, creates a striking visual. The way light plays on the stone and water, particularly during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, offers incredible photographic opportunities.

Photography tips: Aim for early morning or late afternoon visits to capture the best light. Experiment with different angles to showcase the scale of the linga and the unique water feature. Be mindful of other visitors and maintain a respectful distance while composing your shots. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Monolithic Marvel: Badavilinga

The Badavilinga Temple is renowned for housing Hampi's largest monolithic Shiva Linga. Carved from a single piece of black stone, this impressive sculpture stands at approximately 3 meters tall.Instagram Its sheer size and the intricate detail of the three-eyed mark, symbolizing Shiva's third eye, are awe-inspiring.Instagram The linga is not just a static sculpture; its presence is amplified by its unique setting.

What truly sets the Badavilinga apart is its perpetually water-filled pedestal. The linga is housed within a small shrine, and its base is constantly submerged in water, which is fed by an unseen source.Reddit This constant flow of water is believed to have spiritual significance, symbolizing purity and the life-giving nature of the divine. The interplay of light on the water and the ancient stone creates a serene and almost mystical atmosphere, making it a powerful focal point for devotees and visitors alike.

Legend adds another layer of fascination to the temple. It's said that a poor woman commissioned the linga after her wish for a child was miraculously fulfilled.Instagram This story underscores the deep devotion associated with the site and its enduring legacy as a place of spiritual power and hope. Visiting Badavilinga offers a glimpse into the rich religious and artistic heritage of the Vijayanagara Empire. TikTok

Exploring Hampi's Sacred Landscape

Badavilinga Temple is strategically located within the vast archaeological landscape of Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.TikTok It's often visited as part of a broader exploration of the region's historical and religious marvels. Its proximity to the Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, home to a colossal statue of the man-lion deity, makes it a convenient pairing for visitors.Instagram This allows travelers to experience two significant religious monuments within a short span.

When planning your Hampi itinerary, consider how Badavilinga fits into the larger picture. Many visitors use auto-rickshaws to navigate between the scattered ruins and temples, making it easy to include Badavilinga along with sites like the Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple (famous for its musical pillars and stone chariot), and the Royal Enclosure.Instagram This comprehensive approach ensures you capture the essence of Hampi's historical grandeur and spiritual depth.

Remember that Hampi is an expansive site, and comfortable footwear is essential for exploring its many wonders. While Badavilinga itself is a compact visit, the surrounding areas require walking. The Hampi Bazaar area, close to Badavilinga, offers local food options and a glimpse into the contemporary life of this historic town.Instagram

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