Uddana Veerabhadra Temple, Hampi - Timings, History, Architecture, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 1 Km from Hampi Bus Stand, Sri Uddana Veerabhadra Temple is an ancient shrine situated near Sri Krishna Temple in Hampi. This is a small but religiously prominent temple in Hampi.

Uddana Veerabhadra Temple is dedicated to Lord Veerabhadra, who is an incarnation of Lord Shiva. Veerabhadra serves as a cult deity, embodying the fierce aspect of Lord Shiva. This temple was constructed during the Vijayanagara period and is also referred to as Mudduviranna Temple, as noted in the inscription. It was consecrated by Dalavayi Jangamayya in the year 1545 AD. Uddana Veerabhadra Temple is thought to be as ancient as the Virupaksha Temple. The temple features a colossal statue of Lord Veerabhadra.

Situated to the southeast of the Chandikeshwara Temple, the Uddana Veerabhadra Temple lies midway between the Sacred Centre and the Royal Enclosure. It is designed in the Vijayanagara architectural style. The temple complex includes a spacious garbhagriha, an antarala, and a pillared mukha mantapa. The doors of the temple are simply adorned and painted in saffron. Inside, there is a 3.6 m tall monolithic idol of Uddana Veerabhadra depicted in a standing position, with four arms holding an arrow, sword, bow, and shield. Additionally, a small idol of Daksha is present, along with a Shiva Linga known as Sarvanga Linga, which is also venerated in the temple.

The priests conducting puja at this temple are members of the Lingayath community. Nearby, a tall monolithic lamp and the Sati Stone can be found, serving as a tribute to the wives who took their own lives following the deaths of their warrior husbands in battle. Furthermore, a small shrine dedicated to Hanuman is located adjacent to the lamppost. Opposite the Uddana Veerabhadra Temple stands the Chandikeshwara Temple. Although it may not be as magnificent as some of the other renowned temples in Hampi, it attracts a significant number of devotees due to its spiritual significance.

Timing: 9 AM - 5:30 PM

Entry: Free