Shivagange Hill - Karnataka
All the statues and carvings found on the walls and the temples of Shivagange were designed during the Hoysala reign. The site preserved since the age of Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana was later renovated by King Kempagowda from Vijayanagara Empire. The giant Lord Ganesha statue at the entrance of the pilgrimage symbolizes the importance of taking Ganesh’s blessing before marking any auspicious task according to ancient mythology.
Annadhana, a practice of offering food is a regular practice at Shivagange temples. During festive seasons, it is carried out daily on a 24 hours basis. The huge hall where the food is served is named Anna Dhasoha Nilaya, located to the south of Harike Ganapathi temple. The authorities claim that there is a secret tunnel that passes through the mountain which starts from the Gangadheswara temple and reaches the Gavigangadeshwara temple in Bangalore. The Mountain seems to come in different shapes from all four angles. A view from the north gives the impression that the hill is in the shape of Lord Ganesha, South gives a Nandi shape, East; the shape of Shiva Linga, while West unveils a shape of a serpent. Thus exhibiting the architectural supremacy of the site.
