Ghati Subramanya Temple | Famous Subrahmanya Temple in Karnataka

Ghati Subramanya Temple

Ghati Subramanya swamy temple is one of the popular temples dedicated to Lord Subramanya in Karnataka. The temple is located near Doddaballapur about 60 Kms from Bangalore. Lord Lakshmi Narasimha is also consecrated in Ghati temple.

Subramanya idol is considered as Swayambhu vigraha i.e. self originated.

The most significant feature of this temple is Lord Subramanya is facing east and Lakshmi Narasimha swamy is facing west in a single image. Devotees visit Lord Narasimha through a mirror placed at grabha gudi.

Subrahmanya Shasti, the sixth day during Margasira maasam, is observed in Ghati temple with utmost enthusiasm. Subramanya Brahmarathotsava is the most eye-catching celebrations held at Ghati temple on Pushya Shudda Shashti, the sixth day during Pushya maasam. Narasimha Jayanti is another most celebrated festival at Ghati temple.

Another famous temple dedicated to Lord Subramanya in Karnataka is Kukke Subramanya temple.

The temple is renowned for its special dual worship of Lord Subramanya (Karthikeya) in serpent form and Lord Narasimha, both carved from a single stone and installed together in the sanctum sanctorum. Devotees have direct darshan of Subramanya, while Narasimha is viewed through a mirror placed strategically behind the idol.​

Temple History and Legends

• The temple’s history spans over 600 years, with its development credited to the Ghorpade rulers of Sandur.​

• The main idol is a swayambhu (self-manifested) image, believed to have emerged from the earth along with Lord Narasimha.​

• According to local legend, Subramanya, in serpent form, performed penance here seeking protection for the Naga clan from Garuda’s wrath, invoking Lord Narasimha for aid.​

• Another myth recounts Subramanya’s victory over the demon Ghatikasura at this site, giving the temple its name.​

Rituals and Traditions

• Ghati Subramanya is a major center for snake worship in South India, with hundreds of naga idols installed beneath a peepal tree behind the temple.​

• The temple is famed for childless couples performing rituals and installing naga idols to seek blessings.​

• Prasad distributed to devotees includes sand collected from sanctum anthills, symbolizing fertility and blessings.​

Architectural Features and Festivals

• The idol of Subramanya is depicted with a seven-headed cobra and seated on a peacock, facing east to align with sunrise.​

• The sanctum houses both Karthikeya and Narasimha in the same stone, with mirror viewing for the rear deity, a very rare feature.​

• Important festivals include Brahmarathotsava (on Pushya Shuddha Shashti), Narasimha Jayanti, and various special snake worship rituals.​

Visitor Information

• The temple is approximately 60 km from Bangalore, making it a popular destination for devotees.​

• The premises are clean and well maintained, with special darshan tickets available during peak times.​

Ghati Subramanya Swamy Temple stands out for its unique worship practices, ancient history, and deep connections to South Indian serpent traditions, attracting pilgrims seeking spiritual blessings, especially related to fertility and protection.