Here’s a detailed 2-day travel itinerary for visiting Kolar, Karnataka, along with a comprehensive table summarizing the top tourist attractions, their popularity, average time spent, and entry fees.
Day 1: Temples and Spiritual Sites
- Morning
- 7:00 AM – 8:30 AM: Begin your day with a visit to Kolaramma Temple, an ancient Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati.
- 8:45 AM – 10:00 AM: Proceed to Someshwara Temple, a 14th-century Vijayanagara-era temple known for its intricate architecture.
- 10:15 AM – 11:45 AM: Head to Koti Lingeshwara Temple in Kammasandra, famous for its massive 108 ft tall Shiva Linga and over 60 lakh smaller lingas.
- Afternoon
- 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: Lunch at a local restaurant in Kolar town.
- 1:45 PM – 3:15 PM: Visit Antaragange, a hill range with natural springs and a temple complex. Enjoy a short trek or explore the caves.
- 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM: Explore Avani, known for its Ramalingeshwara temples and scenic landscapes.
- Evening
- 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM: Conclude your day with a visit to Kolar Betta (also known as Satasringa Hills), a popular spot for trekking and panoramic views.
Day 2: Historical and Natural Attractions
- Morning
- 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Visit Kolar Gold Fields, a historic gold mining area offering insights into India’s mining history.
- 9:15 AM – 10:45 AM: Explore Markandeya Hill, a serene spot ideal for trekking and panoramic views.
- Afternoon
- 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM: Visit Vidurashwatha Temple, a significant religious site with a tranquil atmosphere.
- 1:15 PM – 2:15 PM: Lunch at a local restaurant.
- 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM: Explore Adinarayanaswamy Temple, a tranquil shrine located atop Yellodu Hills.
- Evening
- 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM: Conclude your trip with a visit to Bethamangala Lake, a calm and scenic lake ideal for relaxation and photography.
Top Tourist Attractions in Kolar
| Attraction | Popularity | Average Time Spent | Entry Fee (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kolaramma Temple | High | 1–1.5 hours | Free |
| Someshwara Temple | High | 1–1.5 hours | Free |
| Koti Lingeshwara Temple | Very High | 1.5–2 hours | ₹20 |
| Antaragange (Hill & Caves) | High | 1.5–2 hours | Free |
| Avani (Ramalingeshwara Temples) | Moderate | 1.5–2 hours | Free |
| Kolar Betta (Satasringa Hills) | High | 1.5–2 hours | Free |
| Kolar Gold Fields | High | 2–3 hours | Free |
| Markandeya Hill | Moderate | 2–3 hours | Free |
| Vidurashwatha Temple | Moderate | 1.5–2 hours | Free |
| Adinarayanaswamy Temple | Moderate | 1–1.5 hours | Free |
| Bethamangala Lake | Moderate | 1–1.5 hours | Free |
Travel Tips
- Transportation: Kolar is approximately 70 km from Bengaluru, making it accessible by car or bus.
- Weather: The best time to visit is between November and February when the weather is pleasant.
- Packing: Wear comfortable footwear suitable for temple visits and light trekking.
- Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying local delicacies like Ragi Mudde, Bisi Bele Bath, and Jolada Rotti at local eateries.
Enjoy your trip to Kolar, rich in history, spirituality, and natural beauty!