A Spiritual Escape to Karighatta Srinivasa Temple: The "Chikka Tirupati" of Karnataka

Sri Venkataramana Temple, Karighatta, Srirangapatna
Sri Venkataramana Temple, Karighatta, Srirangapatna

If you’re driving down the Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway, you’ve likely seen the majestic, solitary hill rising near Srirangapatna. That is Karighatta, home to the ancient and powerful Karighatta Srinivasa Temple.

Often known as the "Chikka Tirupati" (Small Tirupati) of Karnataka, this hilltop shrine is a perfect blend of spiritual energy, historical intrigue, and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re a devotee seeking blessings or a traveller looking for a scenic escape, Karighatta is a hidden gem you shouldn't miss.

📜 Karighatta History and Background

The name "Karighatta" translates to "Elephant Hill" in Kannada (Kari meaning black/elephant and Ghatta meaning hill). From a distance, the hill resembles a reclining elephant.

The temple is dedicated to Lord Vaikunta Srinivasa (also known as Karigirivasa or Bairagi Venkataramana). According to the legend, the idol was installed by the great Sage Bhrigu. Another fascinating myth suggests the hill was part of the Nilachala brought by Sugreeva during the Ramayana.

Beyond mythology, Karighatta holds military significance. During the Second Anglo-Mysore War in 1784, Tipu Sultan used this strategic high point to place artillery to defend Srirangapatna against the British.

📍 Karighatta Location and How to Reach

Located in the Srirangapatna, Mandya district, Karighatta stands at an altitude of 2,697 feet at the confluence of the Kaveri and Lokapavani rivers.
  • By Personal Vehicle: If you are travelling from Bengaluru to Mysuru, take the exit toward Srirangapatna. The temple is on the Srirangapatna-Bannur road. The drive up the hill is smooth and incredibly photogenic.
  • By Bus: Take a KSRTC bus to Srirangapatna. From the town, you can hire an auto-rickshaw to reach the hill base.
  • The Trek: For the adventurous, there are about 450 stone steps leading to the summit.

⏰ Karighatta Temple Timings and Entry Fee

Planning your visit around the temple’s schedule is essential, as the doors close for a few hours in the afternoon.
  • Karighatta Temple Timings:  09:30 AM – 02:00 PM & 04:00 PM – 06:00 PM
  • Karighatta Temple Entry Fee:  Free

Botanical Garden Charges

  • Botanical Garden Entry: Adults: ₹10 | Children: ₹5
  • Parking Fee: Free
  • Photography: ₹100
  • Note: Wedding shoots are allowed for a fee of ₹1,000. 
Karighatta Temple services, cost, timings, contact number
Karighatta Temple services, prices, timings and contact number

🌟 Karighatta Highlights and Things to See

  • The Main Shrine: The 6-foot-tall black stone idol of Lord Srinivasa is awe-inspiring. He is flanked by idols of Bhoga Srinivasa and Yoga Srinivasa.
  • Goddess Padmavathi Temple: Located on the western side of the main complex.
  • Panoramic Viewpoints: From the summit, you get a 360-degree view of the Mysuru landscape and the winding rivers.
  • Botanical Garden: Right opposite the temple is a garden with a children's play area, making it a hit for families.

⭐ Visitor Experience & Reviews

Visitors generally describe Karighatta as a place of positive religious energy paired with breathtaking scenery.
  • The Vibe: Travellers love the "peaceful, spiritual retreat" atmosphere.
  • The Drive: The road going uphill is widely praised as "amazingly photogenic," making it a favourite among road-trip enthusiasts.
  • The View: It’s a delight for nature lovers, offering a stunning confluence of the Cauvery and Lokapavani rivers.
Inside Karighatta Temple
Inside Karighatta Temple

🚗 My Karighatta Experience

During my trip from Bengaluru in February 2026, I took the Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway early in the morning. Since I left at dawn, the drive was incredibly relaxed and smooth.

We reached the summit just before the afternoon closing time and felt the ancient temple vibe immediately. We were lucky enough to witness the priest performing a ritual for Goddess Padmavathi, which offered a very peaceful Darshan. Even though it was February, the weather was quite hot, so we cooled down with some freshly crushed sugarcane juice from the local hawkers after our visit.

🥗 Nearby Attractions and Food

You can easily cover Karighatta as a half-day trip or club it with these places to visit near Srirangapatna:
  • Nimishamba Temple: Located nearby on the river banks.
  • Srirangapatna Town: Explore the Ranganathaswamy Temple and Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace.
  • Food Tip: While there aren't many cafes on the hill, you can find many decent restaurants on the highway towards Mysuru.

💡 Travel Tips

  • Drive Carefully: The hill roads are good but winding.
  • Photography: This is a goldmine for selfie lovers; just remember no photos inside the shrine.
  • Carry Essentials: Bring water and light snacks.
  • Stay Safe: Do not wander into the restricted forest areas.
Steep Road - Karighatta Hill
Steep Road - Karighatta Hill

🤔 Is Karighatta Temple Worth Visiting?

The Final Verdict: Yes!

If you love a mix of spirituality and scenery without the massive crowds of larger temples, Karighatta is a must. The ancient stone architecture and the hilltop breeze make it one of the best day trips in the region.

❓ Karighatta FAQ Section

1. What is Karighatta Temple famous for?

It is an ancient hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Vaikunta Srinivasa, known as the "Chikka Tirupati" of Karnataka.

2. What are the timings?

The temple is open from 09:30 AM to 02:00 PM and 04:00 PM to 06:00 PM.

3. Is there an entry fee?

The temple entry is free. There is a small fee of ₹10 for the Botanical Garden.

4. How to reach Karighatta?

It is located off the Bengaluru-Mysuru highway near Srirangapatna. You can drive to the top or climb 450 steps.

5. How much time is needed to visit?

Typically, 1 hour is enough to explore the temple and enjoy the views.

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helps you plan a soulful trip to this ancient hilltop.

Explore travel labels: Places to visit Srirangapatna

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Location: Karighatta, Kallikoppalu, Karnataka 571807, India

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