History of Temple

Sri Mahamaya temple, Kuknoor, Karnataka is located 27 Km north-west of Koppal, Karnataka India.

It was built before the 8th century B.C.

The Chalukya and Rashtrakuta dynasties considered Kuknoor as an important bastion. Just behind the Mahamaya Temple is the unique Navalinga Temple.The Navalinga Temple houses nine of the 12 jyotirlingas and is probably the only place where such a phallus exists. Each linga has a separate shrine and shikhara.

Near By Temples

1. Navalinga Temple, Kuknoor

Description: A significant Chalukyan-style temple complex featuring nine shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, each housing a Shiva Lingam.
Distance: Close to the Sri Mahamaya Temple, within Kuknoor town.
Highlights: Famous for its ancient architecture and peaceful ambiance.

2. Banashankari Temple, Badami

Description: Dedicated to Goddess Banashankari, this temple is a popular pilgrimage site and is visited by many devotees.
Distance: Approximately 65 km from Kuknoor.
Highlights: The temple is especially beautiful during the Banashankari fair, held annually.

3. Shirur Anjaneya Temple

Description: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, known for its divine and serene atmosphere.
Distance: About 20 km from Kuknoor.
Highlights: The temple is situated in a scenic setting and is a popular spot for local devotees.

4. Veerabhadra Temple, Hampi

Description: A historic temple dedicated to Veerabhadra, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, located in the renowned UNESCO World Heritage site of Hampi.
Distance: Around 85 km from Kuknoor.
Highlights: The temple features intricate carvings and unique architecture typical of the Vijayanagara Empire.

5. Dattatreya Temple, Koppal

Description: A revered temple dedicated to Lord Dattatreya, a deity believed to be an incarnation of the Hindu Trinity (Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva).
Distance: About 40 km from Kuknoor.
Highlights: Known for its peaceful surroundings and spiritual significance.

6. Virupaksha Temple, Pattadakal

Description: This UNESCO-listed temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its outstanding Dravidian architecture from the Chalukya period.
Distance: Roughly 70 km from Kuknoor.
Highlights: It's part of the Pattadakal temple complex, a significant historic site with several temples dedicated to various deities.

Gallery

Pooja Timing

Daily Pooja Timings

Morning Pooja: 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM
Afternoon Pooja: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Evening Pooja: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Special Days and Festivals

Navaratri: Celebrated with elaborate rituals, and special poojas are held throughout the day.
Full Moon Days: Special poojas and rituals are often performed in the evening.

How to reach

By Air

Nearest Airport: Hubli Airport (IATA: HBX), around 105 km from Kuknoor.
Alternative: Belgaum Airport, about 200 km away.
From Airport: Take a taxi or a bus to Kuknoor. You can also hire a cab directly to Kuknoor from Hubli Airport.

By Train

Nearest Railway Station: Gadag Railway Station, about 50 km away.
Alternative: Hubli Railway Station, which is 105 km from Kuknoor.
From Station: Local buses, cabs, and autorickshaws are available to reach Kuknoor.

By Road

From Gadag: Kuknoor is approximately 50 km from Gadag. Take a bus or drive via the Gadag-Bijapur highway.
From Hubli: Around 105 km; the route is well-connected by Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses and taxis.
Self-Drive/Taxi: You can drive or book a taxi if you prefer more convenience. The roads are generally in good condition and make for a comfortable drive.

Mahamaye -kukanoor-Danamma