Nimishamba

Nimishamba Temple

Nimishamba is a revered temple situated on the banks of the holy River Cauvery, about 3 km from Srirangapatna, near Mysuru in Karnataka. The temple is believed to have been constructed around 400 years ago by Raja Wodeyar of Mysore.

Goddess Nimishamba is considered an incarnation of Goddess Parvathi, the consort of Lord Shiva. Here, Lord Shiva is worshipped as Sri Aksheeswara. The name Nimishamba is derived from the words Nimisha (minute) and Amba (Parvathi), signifying the belief that the Goddess removes the worries and obstacles of sincere devotees within minutes.

A Sri Chakra is carved on a stone in front of the Goddess, and regular poojas are performed. Devotees firmly believe that sincere prayers offered here bring swift relief and positive changes in life.

The temple is located at a higher elevation on the riverbank, with the River Cauvery flowing below. Well-laid stone steps lead devotees down to the river.

The shrine is relatively small but majestic, featuring a seven-tier Rajagopuram. Goddess Nimishamba is beautifully adorned with exquisite jewelry and garlands made of flowers and lemons. Adjacent to the Goddess’s sanctum is the shrine of Lord Aksheeswara (Shiva), and there is also a shrine dedicated to Lakshminarayana.

Offerings and Rituals

Devotees commonly offer:

Lemon garlands

Madiluakki (turmeric powder, kumkum, betel leaves, betelnut, flowers)

Green saree with border (strictly no black) and blouse piece

Green bangles

Five measures of rice

Jaggery

Copra (cut into two pieces)

Dakshina

If the priest gives one or two lemons as prasada, devotees take them home and worship daily. Once the lemon dries, it is immersed in a flowing river or lake.

Unique Feature

A unique aspect of this temple is the Bali Peeta and a large brass bell hanging from the ceiling. After placing Bali Bhojana on the Bali Peeta, the priest rings the bell, inviting birds—especially crows—to partake of the offering.

Festivals and Special Poojas

Durga Homa

Chandi Homa

Navaratri Pooja

Fresh vegetables grown in nearby villages are also sold outside the temple premises.

Temple Timings

 6:30 AM to 8:30 PM

Distance

Bangalore to Nimishamba: 125 km

Mysuru to Nimishamba: 22 km

Srirangapatna to Nimishamba: 3 km