Shree Badavilinga Gudi - Hindu temple in Hampi, Krishnapura - Ballari, India

Shree Badavilinga Gudi in Hampi is a small but significant temple that holds great spiritual importance and serves as a testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of the region. What immediately catches your eye at Shree Badavilinga Gudi is the imposing monolithic Shiva Linga, the largest such Linga in Hampi. This massive granite Linga is believed to be an ancient representation of Lord Shiva and has a sense of divine power and reverence that is palpable. The temple structure, though simple, has an aura of sanctity and serenity. Devotees and visitors can engage in prayers and rituals, offering their respects to Lord Shiva in this sacred place. What makes this temple even more unique is that it's always submerged in water. The sanctum sanctorum remains partially underwater due to the perennial flow of the Tungabhadra River, which adds an element of mystique and charm to the place. This natural setting adds to the spiritual ambiance and uniqueness of the temple. The picturesque location of Shree Badavilinga Gudi, surrounded by lush greenery and a serene pond, makes it a tranquil and peaceful spot for contemplation and devotion. The gentle sounds of the water add to the calming atmosphere, creating a harmonious space for seekers of spirituality and those who appreciate the beauty of nature. In conclusion, Shree Badavilinga Gudi is a sacred gem in Hampi that beautifully marries nature and spirituality. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in devotion while being one with the serene natural surroundings. Whether you are a religious pilgrim or a traveler seeking a tranquil escape, this temple offers a unique and enriching experience.

"Badava" translates to "poor," and "Linga" represents Shiva. Legend has it that this temple was constructed by a destitute woman, hence the name. It stands as a striking structure and houses one of the largest Shiva Lingas globally. Remarkably, at the linga's base, there is a pedestal partially submerged in water due to an underlying water canal. Additionally, the linga is open from above. The preservation of this structure is impressive, with exceptionally smooth curves that attest to its creation in a bygone era. It is beside Laxmi- Narsimha

Visiting Shree Badavilinga Gudi in Hampi was a spiritual journey that left an indelible mark on my exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled amidst the captivating ruins, this modest yet profoundly significant temple tells a tale of devotion and resilience. Shree Badavilinga Gudi exudes a serene ambiance that is both calming and spiritually uplifting. The sanctum, housing the massive linga dedicated to Lord Shiva, becomes a focal point for devotees and visitors seeking a moment of reflection and connection with the divine. The temple is named after the colossal Badavilinga, an iconic representation of Lord Shiva in the form of a linga. Carved out of a single black stone, the linga stands tall, symbolizing not just religious devotion but also the resilience and endurance of the people who worshipped here through centuries.

Second largest Shivalinga in India. This place is always filled with water coming from a river.

Incredible Hampi...!!! This ancient monolithic stone structure of Shiva Linga symbolizes Lord Shiva and is located next to Shree Ugra Narasimha temple. The name Badava means poor and Linga is a representation of Shiva. It says that this temple was built by a poor woman. Hence the name is Badava Linga. It is beautiful and one of the biggest Shiva linga you will see anywhere in the world. At the base of the linga there is a pedestal which is submerged in water as there is a water canal below it. Also the linga is open from above. It is very well preserved and the curves in this linga are so smooth, it's made so long ago. Daily Pooja worship is done here in the morning. Must visit when you are in hampi

Specially, I loved the Lakshmi Narasimha temple statue which was around 6.70 ft and 3 ft shivlinga in the month of Shravan. Har Har Mahadev.

This is another beautiful place where you can visit both Ugra Narshimha and Badavilinga Shivling in the same campus beside each other. Linga is housed inside a chamber with an opening in the front which is always filled with water as water chamber is suppose to pass through it. A close look on this icon can reveal three eyes (depicting the three eyes of Shiva) carved on it. Legend has it that this was commissioned by a peasant woman and hence the name (Badva means poor in local tongue). The entry is free .

This huge monolithic linga is situated in the same premises as ugra narasimha. The main attraction of the linga is its size and the fact that it stands in the middle of water. The water is always present and interestingly the water is supplied from tungabhadra. Previously it was open to everyone but now it is gated.