Kaivara, Kailasgiri & Kotilingeshwara: A day well spent
Overview: Kaivara is around 70 kms from Bangalore and is known for the legends associated with it. It is believed that the Pandavas spent sometime in Kaivara which was then known as Ekachakrapura during their exile, and it is also said that the legendary Bheema slayed the demon Bakasura in a hill near Kaivara. Kaivara is also known for the 18th century saint Kaivara Thatayya, or Yogi Narayana who lived here and has written many poems in praise of the Lord and also has written prophecies on the future events on Earth. There is a beautiful ashram in the middle of the Kaivara town. Painted in white, it is a big complex where accommodation and food is provided for the devotees. The ashram overlooks the hill which has a boulder in the shape of an eagle. That is supposed to be the hill where Bheema killed Bakasura. Next to the ashram there is a temple which is dedicated to Amar Narayanaswamy and it is said that the idol was installed by the Hoysalas. The temple has a huge tower with...