Koppal Kanakachala Lakshmi Narasimha Temple / Kanakachalapathi Temple

Address

Koppal Kanakachala Lakshmi Narasimha Temple / Kanakachalapathi Temple – Kanakagiri Main Road, Kanakagiri, Koppal District, Karnataka, India, Pincode – 583283.

Deity

Kanakachala Lakshmi Narasimha/ Kanakachalapathi Amman: Lakshmi

Introduction

The Kanakachala Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, also known as the Kanakachalapathi Temple, is a 16th-century shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is located in the town of Kanakagiri in Gangavathi Taluk, Koppal District, Karnataka. Known in ancient times as “Swarnagiri” (meaning “Hill of Gold”), Kanakagiri is approximately 3 km from Koppal city, 380 km north of Bengaluru, and 200 km east of Belagavi.

Puranic Significance

Kanakagiri derives its present name from Kanaka Muni, a saint who performed intense penance in this region. Historically, the nearby city of Koppal, known as “Kopana” in ancient inscriptions, holds archaeological importance due to the discovery of two Ashokan-era inscriptions at Palkigundu and Gavimatha villages.

The temple is an exquisite example of Dravidian architecture from the Vijayanagara era. It is a protected monument under the Karnataka division of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The temple was built by the ruling vassal polygar (feudal lord) and is believed to be around 1,000 years old.

The temple complex is notable for its:

Spacious halls (Mantapas)
Massive Yali pillars (mythical lion sculptures)
Three well-designed, tiered Gopurams (entrance towers)

The intricate sculptures depict mythological figures in wood and stone, along with carvings of kings and queens in black stone. The temple’s magnificence is often compared to the wonders of nearby Hampi, with the local saying:
“People with eyes must see Kanakagiri, and those with legs, Hampi.”

Beliefs

Devotees visit the Kanakachalapathi Temple for:

Peace of mind
Fulfillment of wishes

The temple houses separate shrines for Narasimha, a fierce form of Lord Vishnu, and Goddess Lakshmi. The combined form of Lakshmi and Narasimha is worshipped in the rare Shaligram form.

Special Features

The Dravidian-style architecture is a hallmark of the Vijayanagara Empire.
The massive yali pillars and carvings reflect the artistic brilliance of the era.
The Shaligram deity form is unique to this temple, drawing devotees from far and wide.

Festivals

The temple hosts the Kanakachalapathi Fair (Jatra) in the Phalguna season (February-March). This grand festival attracts pilgrims and devotees, celebrating the temple’s spiritual and cultural significance.