The Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple is a sacred place of worship located atop the Biligiriranga Hills (BR Hills) in Karnataka, India. It is dedicated to Lord Ranganatha or Rangaswamy, which is a manifestation of Lord Vishnu in a reclining position.
The Biligiriranga Hills, commonly known as BR Hills, are situated in the southeastern edge of Karnataka, bordering Tamil Nadu, in South India. They are located in the Yelandur and Kollegal taluks of Chamarajanagar district.
For tourists, the Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple is not only a pilgrimage site but also a place of natural beauty offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and forests. Its location at the confluence of the Western and Eastern Ghats makes it a unique spot for biodiversity, attracting nature lovers, bird watchers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
The best time to visit the temple is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and conducive for exploring the hills and the surrounding wildlife sanctuary. However, during the annual car festival held in April, a large number of devotees visit the temple, which may also be an interesting time for tourists to experience local culture and festivities.
Yes, the BRT Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as the Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Wildlife Sanctuary, surrounds the temple. It is a protected reserve that is home to various species of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and over 250 species of birds, making it a prime destination for wildlife tourism.
Yes, there are accommodation facilities such as lodges, guest houses, and resorts in and around the BR Hills that cater to tourists. Some of these offer amenities that complement the natural surroundings, providing an immersive nature experience.
Visitors can partake in several activities such as wildlife safaris in the BRT Wildlife Sanctuary, bird watching, nature walks, and trekking. The local Soliga tribe also offers cultural tours, showcasing their traditional lifestyle and practices to interested visitors.
Typically, there is no entry fee required to enter the temple for worship. However, there might be fees for additional services like special poojas or offerings. For entry into the wildlife sanctuary or for safaris, there may be regulated fees and permissions required, which can be confirmed with the local forest department or tour operators.
The temple generally opens early in the morning and closes in the evening. However, the exact timings can vary, and it's advisable to check with local sources or the temple management for current timings, especially if planning to visit during festival times or special occasions.
Photography may be permitted in the temple premises but is usually restricted inside the main worship area to maintain the sanctity of the place. Visitors should respect local customs and rules regarding photography. In the wildlife sanctuary, photography is allowed, but it's recommended to follow guidelines to not disturb the wildlife.
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