Chennakesava temple - Somanthpura, Karnataka

Around 35 Kms from Mysuru town is the temple of Chennakesava yet another wonder from Hoysala rulers.This temple is smaller than Halebidu temples and Belur but still magnificient with exquisite craftsmanship.

Here also like Belur temple Krishna is the presiding deity is a  kept in a well protected casing.

As per history this was built by Soma , the commander in chief of Narasimha III when Hoysala empire was a major power in South India.

There is no worship in this temple and is a great tourist attraction for those who love to visit monuments.

My pictures would speak better than my description so please see my collection.

Temple timings- 9 Am- 5.30 pm

                                  

Chennakesava temple, Belur Hasan district, Karnataka

Chennakesava temple at Belur in Hasan district is yet another example of Hoysala architecture. Built around 12th century, Chenna Kesava means Handsome Keshava and it refers to  Lord Krishna.

This temple has a South Indian multi tiered Rajagopuram which is visible from a great distance .
The temple houses an idol of Vishnu and daily rituals and worship is conducted here.

The view of the temple as one enters the gopuram is splendid. there is huge flag post in front of the temple. There is also statue of Garuda , Vishnu's mount in front of the flag post.

The ornate work on stone is akin to Hoysaleshwara temple. The figurines on top of each pillar in front of the sanctum would leave one wonder struck as it depicts fine carvings with lot detailing done with ornaments. The guides in the temple give detailed description of each statue and one can carry cameras and shoot to ones's content.

This temple is just around 16 kms from Hoysaleshwara temple.
Timings- This temple opens its doors at 7 Am and remains open til evening with no break during lunch hours.

Hoyasaleshwara temple - Halebidu , Hasan district, Karnataka.

 A temple believed to be built in 12 -13th century, this  Hoysala monument is amazing .Situated in Hasan district of Karnataka this temple will offer a delightful experience to any tourist.

 This temple is known as Hoysaleshwara temple , houses Shivlinga known as  Hoysaleshwara. This temple has excellent ornate work in stone. Each stone is  cut and carved to perfection and is difficult to believe how one can create such intricate work in stone. Soap stones are used to create excellent art pieces.One can easily spend a day or two here enjoying the beautiful carvings .

Halebidu means ruined city and got its  name as it was ransacked twice during the invasion of  Malik Gafur. . Though the spire  of the temple is missing ,it is still  magnificent and just stands as a reminder of past glory.
Hoysaleswara shrine is situated near to the main entrance on the right side and  bang opposite outside one can see the gigantic Nandi  a monolithic structure with a fine gleam . Difficult to believe how these were carved with smooth finish in days of yore.

The statues in various poses, the ornaments they wear are mesmerizing. No two statues are alike and one can just imagine the creativity and vision of the creator.

There are also statues of Jain monks  here.

One can use the help of a guide here to get detailed description of monument and the stories associated with each statue here. This temple is under ASI.

More details  here

This temple is 149 Kilometers from Mysore.
Halebidu is just 25-30 K.ms from Hasan.
Will be sharing some more pictures in my next post.