The Art of Living International Center, located in Bangalore, India, is a serene and expansive campus that serves as the global headquarters for the Art of Living Foundation. Founded by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in 1981, the center offers a peaceful retreat for individuals seeking spiritual growth, wellness, and inner peace. The center hosts a variety of programs and workshops, including meditation, yoga, and stress-relief courses, aimed at promoting mental clarity and overall well-being. Surrounded by lush greenery and featuring beautiful architecture, the center provides an ideal environment for reflection and rejuvenation.
St. Mary's Basilica in Bangalore, India, is one of the oldest and most prominent churches in the city. Dedicated to St. Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, it boasts stunning Gothic-style architecture with elaborate stained glass windows and towering spires. The basilica is known for its annual St. Mary's Feast, which attracts thousands of devotees and tourists alike.
Lotus Mahal in Hampi, India, is an exquisite example of Indo-Islamic architecture, blending elements from both Hindu and Muslim design traditions. This elegant structure, located within the Zenana Enclosure, features a distinctive lotus-like dome and intricately carved arches, giving it a delicate and graceful appearance. The two-story pavilion was likely used as a council chamber or a recreational area for royal women.
Kadri Manjunath Temple in Mangalore, India, is a historic and revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated on the Kadri Hills, the temple is an important pilgrimage site and is known for its unique blend of traditional and Dravidian architecture. The temple complex includes several ancient statues and a natural spring called Gomukha, which is believed to have healing properties. The main deity, Lord Manjunatha, is depicted in the form of a Shiva Linga, and the temple also houses shrines of other deities such as Goddess Durga and Lord Ganesha. The temple's annual festival, held during the month of January, attracts thousands of devotees and features various religious rituals and cultural performances.
Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple, also known as Gavipuram Cave Temple, is a historic temple located in Bangalore, India. This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is renowned for its unique cave-like structure carved out of a single rock. The temple features monolithic pillars, stone discs, and other architectural marvels that reflect the brilliance of Indian rock-cut architecture. One of the most fascinating aspects of the temple is its alignment with the sun; on the occasion of Makar Sankranti, the sun's rays pass through the horns of the Nandi (the bull) and illuminate the Shivalinga inside the cave.
The Gommateshwara statue in Channarayapatna, India, is a remarkable and significant Jain monolith. Standing at approximately 18 feet tall, this imposing statue is dedicated to the Jain figure Bahubali, also known as Gommateshwara. It is a symbol of peace, non-violence, and renunciation. The statue is carved from a single block of granite and features intricate details that highlight the artistry and devotion of the Jain community.
Odegal Basadi, located in Channarayapatna, India, is a remarkable Jain temple known for its architectural beauty and historical significance. This temple, also known as Trimurti Basadi, is dedicated to the Jain Tirthankaras and is a fine example of Hoysala architecture. The temple's name, "Odegal," is derived from the Kannada word for the stone used as ballast to stabilize the structure. Built in the 12th century, the temple features intricately carved pillars, detailed sculptures, and a serene atmosphere that attracts both devotees and tourists alike.
Akkana Basadi is a notable Jain temple located in the town of Channarayapatna, Karnataka, India. This temple is dedicated to the Jain Tirthankara Parshvanatha and is renowned for its architectural beauty and historical significance. Built in the 12th century during the reign of the Hoysala Empire, the temple features intricate carvings and sculptures that exemplify the Hoysala style of architecture.
Chandragupta Basadi, located in Channarayapatna, India, is an ancient Jain temple with historical and architectural significance. This basadi is dedicated to Chandragupta Maurya, the founder of the Maurya Empire in ancient India, who later converted to Jainism. The temple complex is known for its intricate carvings, detailed sculptures, and serene ambiance, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Jain community.
Chandragiri Hill, located in Channarayapatna, India, is a site of historical and religious significance. Known for its ancient Jain temples, this hill attracts pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike. The serene environment and the architectural beauty of the temples, which date back several centuries, offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Shivanasamudra Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Mandya district of Karnataka, India. It is formed by the Kaveri River, which splits into two branches, creating a twin waterfall known as Gaganachukki and Bharachukki. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery and rocky terrain, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers. Besides its natural beauty, Shivanasamudra is also home to one of Asia's first hydroelectric power stations, built in 1902.
The Chennakeshava Temple in Belur, India, is a remarkable example of Hoysala architecture, constructed during the 12th century under the reign of King Vishnuvardhana. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is renowned for its intricate carvings, detailed friezes, and elaborate sculptures that cover every inch of its surface. The temple's main attraction is the 6.5-foot-tall statue of Chennakeshava (an avatar of Vishnu), which is exquisitely detailed and beautifully adorned. The complex also features several smaller shrines, majestic pillars, and an assembly hall with exceptional craftsmanship.
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