Driving Holidays From Bangalore: Lepakshi

1. Lepakshi. Temple dated Vijayanagara empire having fantastic sculptures. The entire temple complex is like a fascinating workshop having sculptures and paintings that amaze you. Specially look out for the paintings and sculptures on almost all possible pillars. Don't miss the backside of the temple.
The inner sanctum also has deities who are worshiped daily. There is also a Durga idol which you have to view only via a mirror.
2. Enjoy the drive on Hyderabad highway - NH7. For driving enthusiasts it's pure bliss! But do watch out for crossings - these are marked though.

Bangalore to Lepakshi

From Bangalore one can drive out via Hebbal - > airport Flyover -> skip the left ramp to Airport and continue straight -. Cross Chikkabalapur (via Chikkaballapura Bypass) and then Bagepalli. After Bagepalli keep watch on the left side for a diversion to Lepakshi. You will find a walled area having truck lanes on the left. The road has walls on both sides. It's tough to miss. There will be a passage to take left. Take that left and continue for 15 kms to reach Lepakshi. There is also a signboard on the right telling this. Refer the images for details of this section.
For people staying in Whitefield, you can take the NH 207 via Hoskote -> Devanahalli -> connect to NH7 and continue further. One can also take take the Budigere road to connect NH207 little before Devanahalli. Both roads are good. Beware of huge speed breakers on the Budigere road specially with low ground clearance cars.
On the Lepakshi road, the road is initially 2 lane but reduces to single lane in some areas. The road is very good though (Feb 2014). After 15 kms you will see a Nandi on your left. By this time you are already in Lepakshi. 500 meters from there you will see an arch - this takes you to the temple. hardly 200 meters. There are limited parking space available on this road at the end near the temple - max 8 vehicles. Parking fees is 30 rs here. Else you can park on the main road.

Kamath after Chikkabalapura for breakfast / lunch. This is after Chikkabalapura on the main highway on the left side. There is a small deviation that takes you here and again connects you back on the highway.
Some hotels on Chikkabalapura - Not on byepass. This is within Chikkabalapura the moment you exit from NH and get into Chikkabalapura, towards your left. These are to be considered only if you are into some special situation, else continue on NH
At Lepakshi there are some small hotels serving mini meals etc. No proper restaurant.

The road from Hebbal to Lepakshi turn is a very good 6 lane highway. It’s a pleasure to drive on this road
Photography is allowed inside the temple premises - specially if you want to capture the amazing sculptures
Carry water, snacks. The place is hot.
There are toilet facilities near the temple.
There is one speed breaker near the diversion for Nandi hills. Its unmarked.

Photos: