Mysuru: The Biligiri Ranganatha Swamy temple atop BR Hills will be closed for public for 18 months from March 15 in wake of renovation of the centuries-old temple.

The Archaeology department intends to retain the original structure of the temple, which is believed to have been built by Sage Vashista. The renovation work will focus on dismantling, re-organising and replacing the damaged stone blocks.

The works were taken up following complaints that there were leaks during rains. Some walls of the temple are in a dilapidated condition and needed immediate attention.

Temple executive officer Venkatesh Prasad told TNIE that this is the first time work has been taken up in the temple. Stating that devotees won’t go without offering puja to the presiding deity, the executive officer said a wooden idol of Biligirirangaswamy will be placed in the temple office and regular puja will be held. Devotees will be offered prasadam as usual, he added.

The Biligiri Ranganatha Swamy Temple has turned into major tourist destination in recent years. Chikka jathre, a car festival held after Sankaranthittracts more than 30,000 devotees and the Dodda jathre in April attracts lakhs. Around 5,000 to 8,000 devotees visit the temple on weekends. The devotees are offered free prasadam at Dasoha Bhavan daily.