What to expect
Highlights
- The 4.5 m single-stone Ganesha.
- The airy pillared mandapa around it.
- The short walk linking it to Sasivekalu Ganesha and the Krishna temple.
Kadalekalu Ganesha
The Kadalekalu Ganesha is a giant monolithic image of Ganesha about 4.5 m tall, carved from a single boulder on the eastern slope of Hemakuta Hill. It takes its name from the "kadalekalu" (Bengal-gram) shape of its belly.
Practical guide
Plan Kadalekalu Ganesha
Typeheritage
Nearest baseHampi
Best timeOctober to February
Time needed15 to 20 minutes
EntryFree
Nearest town/baseHampi
DistrictVijayanagara
Place typeheritage
Time needed15 to 20 minutes.
The Kadalekalu Ganesha is a giant monolithic image of Ganesha about 4.5 m tall, carved from a single boulder on the eastern slope of Hemakuta Hill. It takes its name from the "kadalekalu" (Bengal-gram) shape of its belly.
The idol sits inside an open pillared pavilion whose slender columns frame views back over the ruins. It is one of a pair of famous Hampi Ganeshas, the other being the smaller Sasivekalu (mustard-seed) Ganesha close by.
Visiting
Kadalekalu Ganesha — at a glance
TimingsDaylight hours
Best timeOctober to February
Entry: Free
Getting here
How to reach Kadalekalu Ganesha
On the Hemakuta slope near the Krishna temple
A monolithic Ganesha in an open pavilion; do not touch or climb the idol.
Getting there
How to visit
- On the Hemakuta slope near the Krishna temple; a short walk from Hampi Bazaar.
- Free; footwear can stay on in the open pavilion, but do not touch or climb the idol.
Distance by road
- Bengaluru340 km
- Hubballi145 km
- Hyderabad360 km
- Ballari65 km
- Badami140 km
Road km to Vijayanagara; ghat roads and traffic vary — allow extra.
Timing
Best time
October to February.
Weather in Kadalekalu GaneshaSeasonal guide
Live forecast loads in your browser.
Visitor notes
- Do not climb on the sculpture; it is protected.
Safety
Good to know
On the map
Where Kadalekalu Ganesha is
Photos
Kadalekalu Ganesha in pictures
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What’s near Kadalekalu Ganesha
Good to know
Kadalekalu Ganesha — frequently asked
When is the best time to visit Kadalekalu Ganesha?
October to February.
What are the entry fee and timings at Kadalekalu Ganesha?
Entry: Free. Timings: Daylight hours. Fees and timings are indicative — confirm on site before you travel.
How do I reach Kadalekalu Ganesha?
On the Hemakuta slope near the Krishna temple; a short walk from Hampi Bazaar. Free; footwear can stay on in the open pavilion, but do not touch or climb the idol.
How much time do I need for Kadalekalu Ganesha?
15 to 20 minutes.
What else is near Kadalekalu Ganesha?
Nearby you can pair Hemakuta Hill (190 m), Hampi Bazaar (190 m), Sasivekalu Ganesha (220 m), Krishna Temple (300 m).
Read next
More stories, legends & guides from Vijayanagara
Image credits
- Kadalekalu Ganesha:iMahesh, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0