Ganesha's water-pot!

You will not find this place on the tourists' list of places to visit in Chikmaglur. However, you'll find it on my list of favourite places in Chikmaglur. Let me take you there.....

A half-an-hour's drive from home will take us to the not-so-sleepy town of Koppa. From here, onto  the road to Kesave village.  About 3-4 kms on this road, to the right - a rusty arch and the mud track beyond welcome us. Blink, and we'll miss the place!
We are now on private property. This part of the estate is open to all. Because, it is here that the river Braahmi has her origins. The Braahmi is a small tributary of the river Tunga. Infact, she joins the Tunga within 20 kms. from her place of birth. The presence of an idol of the elephant-headed God lends some piety to the place. 

 

Someone has done a neat job -  making it seem like the water is gushing out of a water-pot. This, and the presence of God Ganesh... the place is locally known as 'KamanDala Ganapati'.

Like all small temples, this temple is open during prayer hours only. But, that's okay...because, we can peep in through the grilled door/ windows. 

From here, the water is channelised and made to fall into a pit that can be accessed... so blissful to drink that pure, cool water straight off the pipe!

  

Of course, it's fuller during the monsoon months. This pic was taken during summer.

The managers of the temple have been thoughtful enough to keep some open space by the temple for picnickers/ people who want to host small functions.

On normal evenings, you'll find some local kids playing cricket!

I know what most of you are thinking! And, yes, I agree...it is not worth making the trip all the way FOR this place. Check it out if you have some time to spare in Koppa town. 

You know, the first time I was here, I was a little surprised to see Ganesh-ji. Because of the big role played by Shiva in bringing down the river Ganga to earth, one usually finds Shiva temples near places where rivers originate.  I had thought - and, still think - Shiva/ Ganesha/ any other God, it is the life-giving source of water that is actually revered.... What do you think??