Hasanamba temple

The temple was constructed in the 12th century CE, placing it among Karnataka's medieval religious structures. Little detail survives in available sources about its original architecture or the circumstances of its founding. What remains clear is that the shrine has endured for nearly nine centuries in Hassan district, maintaining its role as a sacred site for the local community and beyond.

The Annual Opening and Deepavali Festival

Hasanamba temple operates under a distinctive practice: it opens to public darshan only once each year, during the Deepavali festival in October. The exact duration of this opening varies according to the lunar calendar—some years permitting nine days of access, others thirteen. In 2025, public darshan runs from 10 October to 22 October. Before devotees are admitted, the temple administration conducts formal religious ceremonies. District officials and priests then formally open the shrine in a ceremonial gathering attended by dignitaries and media representatives, marking the beginning of the annual period when the goddess receives visitors.

The annual opening coincides with the Sri Hasanamba Devi and Sri Siddeshwara Swamy Jatra Mahotsav, a major festival celebration for Hassan district. Beyond temple darshan, the festival features cultural folk performances, flower and produce exhibitions, craft demonstrations and sales, cooking competitions, and dog shows. Helicopter tour packages are also offered during the festival period, drawing visitors from across the region and making this a significant cultural and religious event.

Darshan, Rituals, and Visiting Hours

During the 2025 Deepavali period, the temple remains open from 10:00 to 22:00 daily. The Sandhya Aarti, an evening ritual, takes place at 19:00 each day. Darshan tickets are available at counters near the temple entrance. Two ticket categories exist: a standard darshan ticket priced at ₹300, and a special darshan ticket at ₹1000. Free dharma darshan (religious viewing) is also available for those who wish to participate without purchasing a ticket.

Advance darshan bookings can be arranged through WhatsApp contact with the temple administration or through mobile applications available for both Android and iOS platforms. This system helps manage the flow of devotees during the busy festival period. Visitors should confirm exact dates before travelling, as the annual opening follows the lunar calendar and may vary year to year.

Facilities and Conduct

Footwear is prohibited within the temple premises. A dress code is enforced; visitors are expected to dress modestly and respectfully. The temple provides several facilities during the festival period, including drinking water, toilet facilities, wheelchair access, and a mother-and-child care centre. Designated parking areas are available for vehicles. The temple administration maintains traffic rules and crowd management protocols to ensure orderly darshan, particularly given the concentration of visitors during the limited annual opening.

How to Reach the Temple

Hasanamba temple is located in Hassan district, Karnataka, at coordinates 13.0024°N, 76.0934°E. Hassan is well-connected by road to other parts of Karnataka via state and national highways. The temple administration provides information on routes and transportation options through its official website and the district tourism office. For inquiries, the temple office can be reached at +916366105589. Visitors planning to attend should confirm the exact dates of the annual opening with the temple before travelling.