Chennakesava Temple

The Chennakesava Temple, also known as the Keshava Temple, is a famous Hindu temple located in the town of Somanathapura in the state of Karnataka, India. It was built in the 13th century during the Hoysala Empire and is a fine example of Hoysala architecture. Some of the highlights of the Chennakesava Temple are:

Architecture: The temple is renowned for its architectural beauty and intricate carvings. The entire temple is built on a raised platform and has three sanctums with beautifully carved idols of Lord Vishnu, Lord Janardhana and Lord Venugopala.

Outer Wall: The outer wall of the temple is adorned with exquisite sculptures of Hindu deities, animals, birds, and mythical creatures. The wall is also decorated with friezes depicting scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and the Puranas.

Mantapa: The temple has a large pillared mantapa, or hall, which is one of the most striking features of the temple. The mantapa is supported by intricately carved pillars, and the ceiling is decorated with intricate patterns.

Carvings: The temple is famous for its intricate carvings, which are considered to be among the best in Hoysala architecture. The carvings depict scenes from Hindu mythology, such as the Mahabharata and Ramayana, as well as scenes from everyday life.

Frescoes: The temple also has some rare frescoes that depict scenes from the life of Lord Krishna, which are considered to be some of the best-preserved frescoes of the Hoysala period.

Overall, the Chennakesava Temple is a magnificent example of Hoysala architecture and is considered to be one of the finest temples in India. Its intricate carvings, exquisite sculptures, and beautiful frescoes make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Indian architecture and art.

The Chennakesava Temple is a historical temple located in the town of Belur in the Hassan district of Karnataka, India. It is considered to be one of the finest examples of Hoysala architecture, and is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures.

Here are some points of interest about the Chennakesava Temple:

Architecture: The temple was built during the Hoysala Empire in the 12th century and is known for its intricate and detailed carvings. The temple is built in the Dravidian style of architecture and has a unique star-shaped design.

Carvings: The temple is famous for its intricate carvings and sculptures, which depict scenes from Hindu mythology, animals, and dancers. The carvings are so intricate that they are said to be the work of celestial craftsmen.

Main Deity: The main deity of the temple is Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped here in the form of Chennakesava. The temple also has shrines dedicated to other deities such as Sridevi, Bhudevi, and Garuda.

Musical pillars: The temple is also famous for its musical pillars, which produce different musical notes when struck. The pillars are said to be made of different types of stones and are arranged in a way that they produce different sounds when struck.

Festivals: The temple celebrates many festivals throughout the year, including the Hoysala Mahotsava, which is a cultural festival that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region.

UNESCO World Heritage Site: In recognition of its cultural and historical significance, the Chennakesava Temple was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

Overall, the Chennakesava Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in ancient Indian architecture and culture.

The best time to visit the Chennakesava Temple is during the winter months between October to February. The weather during this time is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. The temperature ranges between 15°C to 30°C, and you can enjoy exploring the temple and the surrounding areas without any discomfort.

However, if you want to avoid the crowds and get a more peaceful experience, you may consider visiting during the monsoon season between June to September. The temple and its surroundings look very picturesque during this time, with lush greenery and waterfalls. Just be prepared for occasional rain showers.

It is not recommended to visit the temple during the summer months between March to May as the temperatures can soar up to 40°C, making it uncomfortable to explore the temple and its surroundings.