Let us take you through in detail, one of the best places to visit in Karnataka, Kolar!Kolar, a charming town located in the state of Karnataka, India, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its rich heritage and picturesque landscapes, Kolar is a destination that promises a memorable experience for every traveler. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking a peaceful getaway, Kolar has something to offer.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the best places to visit in Kolar, highlighting its famous tourist spots, natural attractions, and must-visit places in Kolar.
Top 11 Places to Visit in Kolar – A Traveler’s Guide to the tourist places to see in Kolar:
Let’s start our list of the places to visit in Kolar with the most obvious and popular choice, the Gold Fields!Kolar Gold Fields (KGF) is one of the most famous tourist spots in Kolar. Once a thriving gold mining town, KGF has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Although the mines are no longer operational, the area still retains its historic charm. Visitors can explore the remnants of the mining operations, including the old machinery and buildings. The KGF Museum is one of the must visit places in Kolar where you can learn about the history of gold mining in the region.
Location: Kolar Gold Fields, KolarTimings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PMEntry Fee: Free
2. Kotilingeshwara Temple
Kotilingeshwara Temple is a unique and awe-inspiring site, home to one of the largest Shivalingams in the world. The temple complex features over 10 million Shivalingams of various sizes, making it a significant pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Shiva. The serene atmosphere and the sheer scale of the lingams make it a fascinating place to visit.Location: Kammasandra Village, KolarTimings: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PMEntry Fee: INR 20
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Antaragange is one of the popular natural tourist attractions in Kolar, known for its scenic beauty and adventure opportunities. This hill range is famous for its natural springs, which are believed to have medicinal properties. The trek to the top of Antaragange is an exhilarating experience, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The cave exploration at Antaragange is another exciting activity that attracts adventure enthusiasts.
Location: Antaragange, KolarTimings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PMEntry Fee: Free
4. Kolaramma Temple and Fort
This ancient fort houses the Kolaramma Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kolaramma, an incarnation of Durga. The fort and temple are known for their Dravidian architectural style.The ancient temple is one of the top places to visit in Kolar and dates back to the Chola period.
The intricate carvings and sculptures on the temple walls are a testament to the architectural brilliance of the time. The annual festival of Kolaramma Jatre is a major attraction, drawing devotees from far and wide making it amongst the best forts to visit in Kolar.
Location: Kolar Town, KolarTimings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PMEntry Fee: Free
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Avani, often referred to as the “Gaya of the South,” is a small village with great historical and mythological significance. It is believed to be the birthplace of the twin brothers Lava and Kusha, sons of Lord Rama. The Ramalingeshwara Temple complex in Avani is a group of temples dedicated to Lord Rama and his family. The rocky hills surrounding Avani are perfect for trekking and exploring ancient cave temples, making it one of the best tourist places to see in Kolar
Location: Avani Village, KolarTimings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PMEntry Fee: Free
Someshwara Temple is another architectural marvel in Kolar, known for its stunning Vijayanagara-style architecture. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features beautifully carved pillars, intricate sculptures, and a large courtyard. The annual festival, Mahashivaratri, is celebrated with great fervor and attracts a large number of devotees.Location: Kolar Town, KolarTimings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PMEntry Fee: Free
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Bangaru Tirupati, also known as the Golden Tirupati, is a revered temple dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara. This temple is a replica of the famous Tirupati Venkateswara Temple in Andhra Pradesh. The temple is situated on a hill, providing a serene and tranquil environment for visitors. The annual Brahmotsavam festival is a major highlight, drawing devotees from across the region.Location: Guttahalli, KolarTimings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PMEntry Fee: Free
Though not located directly in Kolar, Nandi Hills is a nearby attraction that is worth a visit. This popular hill station offers stunning views, lush greenery, and a pleasant climate. It is a perfect spot for a day trip from Kolar. The sunrise view from Nandi Hills is particularly famous, and the area is also great for trekking, cycling, and paragliding.Location: Nandi Hills, Chikkaballapur (near Kolar)Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PMEntry Fee: INR 20
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Chikka Tirupati is another notable temple located near Kolar, dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara. This temple is smaller in scale compared to the main Tirupati temple but holds significant religious importance. The temple is known for its peaceful ambiance and beautiful architecture.Location: Malur, KolarTimings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PMEntry Fee: Free
Kolar Betta, also known as Kolar Hills, is a picturesque location perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The hills offer excellent trekking trails with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The lush greenery and serene environment make it one of the best sightseeing spots in Kolar.Location: Kolar Hills, KolarTimings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PMEntry Fee: Free
Though not as well-preserved as other forts, it is a point of historical interest in the Kolar district. This site offers a mix of historical significance, architectural beauty, and opportunities for outdoor activities like trekking and exploring ancient caves, making it top among the tourist places to see in Kolar.Location: Bangarapet town, Kolar districtTimings: As it is not a major tourist site, there are no specific opening or closing hoursEntry Fee: There is no official entry fee for visiting Bangarapet Fort, since it is not a managed tourist site
Best Time to see the places to visit in Kolar:
The best time to visit Kolar is between October and March. During these months, the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the town’s historical sites, temples, and natural attractions. The cool and comfortable climate enhances the overall travel experience, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.By Train: Kolar is well-connected by rail. The Kolar Railway Station is the main station serving the town. Trains from major cities like Bangalore and Chennai frequently stop here. From Bangalore, the journey by train takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.By Air: The nearest airport to Kolar is Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore, located about 70 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kolar. The drive from the airport to Kolar takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
By Road: Kolar is easily accessible by road. It is located about 70 kilometers from Bangalore and is well-connected via National Highway 75. You can take a bus or drive your own vehicle from Bangalore, which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Buses from major nearby cities and towns also frequently ply to Kolar.
Travel Tips for seeing the places to visit in Kolar:
- Plan Your Visit:
- Allocate at least 2-3 days to explore the main attractions comfortably.
- Local Transport:
- Auto-rickshaws are available for short distances within the town.
- Accommodation:
- Choose accommodations in Kolar town for easy access to major attractions.
- What to Pack:
- Carry a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection during outdoor activities.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring temples and trekking spots.
- Food and Water:
- Carry bottled water to stay hydrated, especially when visiting outdoor sites.
- Respect Local Customs:
- Remove your shoes before entering temples and follow local customs and traditions.
- Safety:
- Avoid traveling alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.
- Connectivity:
- Use GPS and maps for navigation, especially when driving or trekking.
- Cash and Payments:
- ATMs are available in Kolar town for cash withdrawals.
- Local Attractions:
- Allocate time for trekking at Antaragange and Kolar Betta for an adventurous experience.
Concluding the experience of the places to visit in Kolar:
Kolar is a destination that beautifully blends history, spirituality, and natural beauty. From ancient temples and historical sites to scenic hills and adventure spots, the places to visit in Kolar are diverse and captivating. Whether you’re exploring the famous tourist spots in Kolar or discovering the natural tourist attractions in Kolar, the city offers an enriching experience for every traveler. Plan your trip to Kolar and immerse yourself in its charm, heritage, and tranquility.By visiting these must-visit places in Kolar, you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the hidden gems of this enchanting town!
