The vast entrance Lawn of Nambi Narayana Temple
Do not miss this magnificent temple and Tonnur Lake if you are traveling around Mandya. I visited this place by chance and have fallen head over heels in love with this place. I thought there are a lot of like-minded people in the world and hence sharing this!
Prakara of the Temple on One side
This place is near Pandavapura about 8-9 km. from Pandavapura. It is a temple dedicated to Vishnu and the main deity is called ‘Nambi Narayana’. Nambi is a Kannada word which means ‘believe’. The temple was constructed during the Hoysala ruling around 12th century AD.
The main deity of the temple Narayana’s idol is a beautiful piece of carving and looks magnificent standing at 1.8 meters tall. The temple stands on a huge plot that is covered with greenery. The place has a positive vibe and just as you enter the temple compound, you can feel it.
The Entire Temple is built of Stone
The temple is completely a stone construction and you can not stop wondering how wonderfully they have assembled in an interlocking pattern. Remember that there was no machinery available when the temple was constructed. It is all the skillful work of laborers and maybe animals.
As in most of the olden temples, the pillars have intricate carvings which are just wonderful, the ceiling has Sri Chakra and many stone pillars support the roof of the temple. The pictures describe this marvel better. It is a peaceful place where you can spend some time meditating.
A view of the Entrance door from Inside
The temple was further improved during the reign of Vijayanagara Kings. There is a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna just opposite this temple which is also worth visiting. It is a huge temple with a lawn, stone structure with some carvings.
A View of the vast Tonnur Lake
If you go about 1 km. further, you can see a small hillock, a water body, and a statue of Sri. Ramanujacharya in meditating posture.
Statue of Sri Ramanujacharya
Tonnur Lake – A blissful place!
Climb the hillock which is very small and you will be exposed to the magnificent view of Tonnur lake. This is a huge water body with pure water surrounded by hillocks. The cool breeze welcomes you. You can sit on the steps of the lake and enjoy the waves, fresh air, and some avians visiting the lake.
Lake in the backdrop of the Hillock
How to Reach?
You will have to take a dedication of about 20 Kms. from the main Road, If you are traveling on the Bangalore-Mysore highway. But it is certainly worth traveling that extra mile. It is located in Pandavapura, Mandya District, and fits perfectly for a One-day outing near Bangalore.
You can Google Tonnur Lake and it will take you there! Bathing and swimming may be dangerous in the lake, so be careful. Also, the steps are slippery so climb down the steps carefully to reach the water. Marks some 3-4 hours for this and do visit this place.
Mouthwatering hot Jaggery
This is one of the best places to visit near Mysore and a weekend destination for those living in Bangalore. You can buy fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables on the way.
Do not forget to visit ‘Aalemane’ or the place where they make jaggery. Tasting the fresh, hot jaggery is an experience by itself. Do drink fresh cane juice at these places and buy chemical-free jaggery from these places.
Inspired to visit this place! Add more of such places which are less known