Kadalekalu Ganesha
Marvel at Kadalekalu Ganesha, a colossal 4.5m monolithic Ganesha idol carved from a single boulder, set amidst Hampi's historic ruins.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Kadalekalu Ganesha
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Marvel at Kadalekalu Ganesha, a colossal 4.5m monolithic Ganesha idol carved from a single boulder, set amidst Hampi's historic ruins.
"The giant Ganesha statue, carved from one huge boulder, is so impressive—it stands at 4.5 meters tall and really grabs your attention."
👟 Respectful Footwear Etiquette
While not always strictly enforced, it's customary to remove footwear before entering temple premises.
📸 Capture the Grandeur
The sheer size and intricate details of the Kadalekalu Ganesha make it a photographer's delight.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Monolithic Ganesha Idol
Base of Hemakuta Hill
A colossal 4.5-meter tall Ganesha statue carved from a single granite boulder, its belly resembling a Bengal gram.
Vijayanagara-Style Pillared Hall
Temple Shrine
Explore the shrine's tall, slender granite pillars adorned with intricate mythological carvings, showcasing exquisite Vijayanagara architecture.
Panoramic Hillside Views
Hemakuta Hill Slopes
Enjoy scenic views of the surrounding Hampi ruins and landscape from the temple's location on the hillside.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Kadalekalu Ganesha
Getting to Hampi's Monolithic Marvel
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Need help visiting Hampi
👟 Respectful Footwear Etiquette
While not always strictly enforced, it's customary to remove footwear before entering temple premises.
📸 Capture the Grandeur
The sheer size and intricate details of the Kadalekalu Ganesha make it a photographer's delight.
Travel to hampi
Queries regarding Hampi
🗺️ Explore Nearby Wonders
Don't miss the nearby Sasivekalu Ganesha, another monolithic idol with a unique mustard seed-shaped belly.
🚶♀️ Wander Through History
The temple is nestled amidst ancient ruins, offering a peaceful connection to Hampi's rich past.
Is Hampi in India “worth” it?
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Respectful Footwear Etiquette
While not always strictly enforced, it's customary to remove footwear before entering temple premises.
📸 Capture the Grandeur
The sheer size and intricate details of the Kadalekalu Ganesha make it a photographer's delight.
🗺️ Explore Nearby Wonders
Don't miss the nearby Sasivekalu Ganesha, another monolithic idol with a unique mustard seed-shaped belly.
🚶♀️ Wander Through History
The temple is nestled amidst ancient ruins, offering a peaceful connection to Hampi's rich past.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the Kadalekalu Ganesha's immense size and the intricate carvings on its monolithic structure. The temple's historical significance and the beauty of its Vijayanagara-style architecture are frequently praised, offering a peaceful and enriching experience amidst Hampi's ancient ruins. Some visitors note that while footwear removal isn't always strictly enforced, it's a customary practice.
"The Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple in Hampi was amazing. The giant Ganesha statue, carved from one huge boulder, is so impressive—it stands at 4.5 meters tall and really grabs your attention.
The temple is also really beautiful. The tall pillars inside are decorated with cool mythological carvings, and the whole place has a peaceful, ancient vibe. Walking around, I felt connected to the rich history of Hampi, especially with the old ruins surrounding it.
If you're in Hampi, definitely check out this temple. It's a peaceful spot with so much history!"
Amey Joshi
"• 📍 Location: Situated on the slopes of Hemakuta Hill, near Virupaksha Temple in Hampi (a UNESCO World Heritage Site).
• 🪨 Structure: The idol is carved out of a single huge granite boulder.
• 🐘 Form: The belly of the Ganesha idol resembles a kadalekai (Bengal gram / groundnut), hence the name Kadalekalu Ganesha.
• 📏 Size: The statue is about 4.5 meters (15 feet) tall, making it one of the largest Ganesha idols in South India.
• 🏛 Architecture: The shrine housing the idol is built in Vijayanagara style, with tall slender granite pillars decorated with mythological motifs.
• 🙏 Belief: It is a revered place for devotees, and also a popular stop for tourists exploring the ruins of Hampi.
✨ Fun fact: Right opposite to it is the Sasivekalu Ganesha, another monolithic Ganesha idol, whose belly is shaped like a mustard seed (sasive in Kannada)."
SHIVRAJ NALAWADE
"Kadalekalu Ganesha, a monolithic statue of Lord Ganesha in Hampi, is highly praised for its impressive size and intricate carvings. Visitors are captivated by the sheer scale of the statue, which is carved from a single boulder and stands tall at the base of Hemakuta Hill. The name "Kadalekalu" refers to the resemblance of Ganesha's belly to a Bengal gram, a local Kannada term. The temple complex, with its pillared hall and Vijayanagara-style architecture, adds to the overall grandeur."
Arju ARK
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kadalekalu Ganesha is located on the slopes of Hemakuta Hill in Hampi. To reach Hampi, you can fly into Hubballi Airport (HBX) and then take a train to Hosapete, followed by a taxi or auto-rickshaw to Hampi. Alternatively, buses are available from major cities to Hosapete. From Hosapete, local transport will take you to the temple site.
The journey to Hampi can be a bit involved, often requiring multiple modes of transport like flights, trains, and local taxis. Planning your route in advance is recommended.
Once in Hampi, auto-rickshaws and bicycles are popular ways to explore the various sites, including Kadalekalu Ganesha. Walking is also feasible for shorter distances between attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Kadalekalu Ganesha temple is generally free, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors.
The temple is typically open from sunrise to sunset, allowing visitors to explore during daylight hours. It's advisable to check locally for any specific timings.
No advance booking is required as there is no entry fee. You can visit the temple at your convenience during its operating hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The temple is renowned for its massive monolithic statue of Lord Ganesha, carved from a single boulder. Its name comes from the resemblance of Ganesha's belly to a 'kadalekai' (Bengal gram).
The impressive Ganesha idol stands approximately 4.5 meters (15 feet) tall, making it one of the largest Ganesha idols in South India.
The shrine housing the idol is built in the Vijayanagara style, featuring tall, slender granite pillars decorated with intricate mythological motifs.
Yes, directly opposite Kadalekalu Ganesha is Sasivekalu Ganesha, another monolithic idol whose belly is shaped like a mustard seed ('sasive' in Kannada).
The pillars outside the shrine are noted for representing various ethnicities that historically visited the temple, adding a unique cultural dimension.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted at Kadalekalu Ganesha, allowing you to capture the grandeur of the monolithic idol and the temple architecture.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best lighting conditions for photography, with softer light and fewer harsh shadows.
Focus on the scale of the Ganesha idol, the detailed carvings on the pillars, and the panoramic views from the hillside.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the site itself is not overly strenuous, it's advisable to visit during cooler parts of the day to ensure comfort for younger children. Carrying water and snacks is recommended, as amenities might be limited. The free entry makes it an accessible outing for families looking to experience a piece of Hampi's rich history without additional cost.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Opting for public transport like buses and trains to reach Hosapete, and then using local auto-rickshaws or renting a bicycle in Hampi, can significantly reduce expenses. Packing your own food and water can also help save money, allowing you to fully appreciate this magnificent historical monument without breaking the bank.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Monolithic Marvel: Kadalekalu Ganesha
The shrine housing the idol is a testament to the architectural prowess of the Vijayanagara Empire. It features a pillared hall with tall, slender granite pillars that are intricately decorated with mythological motifs. These carvings not only add to the aesthetic beauty of the temple but also offer a glimpse into the rich cultural and religious narratives of the era. The location on the slopes of Hemakuta Hill provides a scenic backdrop, further enhancing the visitor experience.
Visitors often remark on the peaceful and ancient vibe of the temple, feeling a deep connection to the history of Hampi. The presence of the nearby Sasivekalu Ganesha, with its mustard seed-shaped belly, adds an interesting comparative element for those interested in the variations of monolithic sculptures in the region.
Navigating Hampi: Travel and Connectivity
For those traveling from other parts of India, overnight buses to Hosapete are also a viable option. Once you arrive in Hampi, getting around to see the various attractions, including Kadalekalu Ganesha, is relatively straightforward. Auto-rickshaws are a popular choice for tourists, offering a convenient way to hop between sites. Renting a bicycle is another excellent option for those who prefer a more active and independent exploration of the sprawling ruins.
It's worth noting that the journey to Hampi can be an adventure in itself, as highlighted by travelers who mention the multi-step process. However, the historical significance and unique beauty of the site, including the Kadalekalu Ganesha, are widely considered to make the travel effort worthwhile.
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