There’s a special spot in Somanathapura, Karnataka, India that sparks interest – the Chamarajeshwara Temple. An ancient Hindu site from the 13th century, it flaunts detailed designs and breathtaking statues. The Hoysala dynasty, guided by Shiva, a Hindu god, fueled its construction. It represents the finesse of Hoysala temple design. It displays meaningful cultures and mythical tales through impressive stone carvings, which are a joy to behold. The detailed designs on the columns often spellbind viewers, the engraving excellence and the harmonious balance of devout and artistic elements. Truly a jewel of South Indian temple artistry.
Places To Visit Near Chamarajeshwara Temple
Here are some of the best places to visit near the Camarajeshware Temple that you must not miss during your next trip.
1. Somanathapura
Image Credit: Apoorva Ramesh for Wikimedia Commons
Somanathapura is a rural spot nestled in Karnataka’s Mandya district, roughly 140 kilometres from the main city, Bengaluru. Known for the outstanding Chamarajeshwara Temple, it nods to the artistry of the 13th-century Hoysala era. Nestled beside the Kaveri River, this temple is a commanding presence in Somanathapura. Remarkable carving intricacies, pillar decorations, and a hybrid style of Hindu-Dravidian architecture all combine, establishing this temple as a marvel of construction.
The temple is a tribute to Shiva, the Hindu god, and is a Hoysala temple architecture’s gem in the area. Visitors to Somanathapura are gifted with the opportunity to walk around the temple, taking in its beautifully carved exterior, reflecting stories and characters from mythology. Within the temple walls, the detailed sculptures, friezes, and the main consecrated space containing the deity provide awe-inspiring visuals. Additional features of this unique temple include its star-shaped layout, a signature design style of Hoysala temple creation.
Location: Somanathapura, Mandya district, Karnataka, India
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Must Read: Omkareshwar Temple Coorg
2. Chennakeshava Temple
Image Credit: Shriram Swaminathan for Wikimedia Commons
The Chennakeshava Temple, a stunning example of Hoysala architecture, sits in Belur, Karnataka. It’s only a short hop, around five kilometres, from the Chamarajeshwara Temple in Somnathpur. It dates back to the twelfth century and boasts a wealth of meticulously carved stones dressing it’s outside walls. It’s an impressive sight as you near the temple—tall spires reach to the sky, housed on elaborately decked walls.
The outer wall’s surface bursts with carved imagery—Hindu gods, florals, geometric patterns, and scenes plucked straight from mythology. The detail level is incredible—an homage to the expert Hoysala artisans of the time. Inside the temple complex, you’re met by the primary shrine, home to the focal deity, Chennakeshava, an incarnation of the Hindu god Vishnu. Step inside the main sanctum and you’re wowed again—high ceilings, grand pillars, and an abundance of carvings keep your eyes busy. The temple isn’t just one building but a series of smaller shrines, each showcasing unique architectural flairs.
Location: Belur, Hassan district, Karnataka, India
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
3. Keerthi Narayana Temple
Image Credit: Likhith N.P for Wikimedia Commons
The Keerthi Narayana Temple, a brilliant 13th-century creation, stands proudly only 10 kilometres away from the Chamarajeshwara Temple. Built in Hoysala-style, it showcases stunning stone sculptures and complex designs, a tribute to the talent of that period. As you near the temple, the finely carved outer part compels admiration, with its tall spires and meticulously detailed walls. A variety of stone-made Hindu gods, mythical tales, lovely floral motifs, and complex shapes embellish the temple’s exterior.
The execution of these details exhibits the remarkable mastery of the Hoysala artists. Visitors entering the temple are welcomed by the main shrine, which holds the primary deity, Keerthinarayana, a form of the Hindu god Vishnu. The inside is equally extraordinary, flaunting a high ceiling, beautifully designed pillars, and attention-grabbing sculptures in every corner. Other smaller places of worship and structures bring more diversity to the temple’s architectural beauty.
Location: Somanathapura, Mandya district, Karnataka, India
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Suggested Read: Hotels In Hunsur
4. Shravanabelagola
Image Credit: Ananth H V for Wikimedia Commons
Shravanabelagola is an important place for followers of Jainism. It’s found in Karnataka’s Hassan district, about 45 kilometres from Chamarajeshwara Temple in Somnathpur. The famed Bahubali statue, one of the biggest Jain symbols, is there, along with many old Jain temples. These places attract people from all over. The Bahubali statue in Shravanabelagola is also called the Gomateshwara statue. It’s 57 feet high, the tallest statue made of stone that stands alone worldwide.
This shows the impressive skill of Jain artists and engineers. The statue, made from one piece of granite, shows Bahubali, the first Jain Tirthankara’s son, meditating. It represents self-discipline and peace. Shravanabelagola is home to more ancient Jain temples, like the Chandragiri and Vindhyagiri temples dating back to the 10th and 12th centuries. They’re stunning, with their detailed carvings and beautiful architecture, and are key places for Jain followers.
Location: Hassan district of Karnataka, India
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
5. Hoysaleswara Temple
Image Credit: Vasukrishnan57 for Wikimedia Commons
The Hoysaleswara Temple is a stunning piece of Hoysala architecture. It’s found in Halebidu, about 60 kilometres from the Chamarajeshwara Temple in Somnathpur. This impressive 12th-century site is famed for its amazing stone designs, which decorate its outer surface. The fine workmanship of the Hoysala era is displayed. Upon seeing the temple, its splendour and size capture attention right away.
The temple’s outer walls pop with carvings, showcasing a wide spread of Hindu gods, mythological events, and detailed floral and geometric motifs. The level of minutiae and workmanship is amazing, with each carving showing amazing artistry and mastery. Once you get inside the temple, you meet the main shrine. It’s the home of two main gods, Hoysaleswara and Shantaleswara, both forms of the Hindu god Shiva.
The inside is just as striking, with its tall ceiling, detailed pillars, and more fine carvings. The temple also includes numerous smaller shrines and structures. Each one has its own unique architectural and artistic parts.
Location: Halebidu, Hassan district, Karnataka, India
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Suggested Read: Karnataka Wildlife Sanctuary
6. Belur
Image Credit: B B Susheel Kumar for Wikimedia Commons
Belur, a small town in Karnataka’s Hassan district, is about 70 kilometres away from the Chamarajeshwara Temple in Somnathpur. It’s famous for its majestic Chennakeshava Temple. This temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fantastic example of Hoysala architecture. The Chennakeshava Temple was built in the 12th century. It’s noted for its detailed and elegant stone carvings. People are right away amazed by the blend of the temple’s size and the richness of its wall decorations.
The exterior walls of the temple display an impressive number of carvings. These depict Hindu gods, scenes from myths, and complex patterns of flowers and shapes. The precision and craftsmanship are amazing. They provide the perfect example of the ability of the Hoysala artisans. When visitors step inside, they see the main shrine first.
It’s in the centre, showcasing Chennakeshava, an incarnation of the Hindu god Vishnu. The inner temple wows people with its high ceiling, decorative pillars, and further breathtaking carvings. Each part of the temple makes you look around a lot. The temple also has a few extra shrines and structures. Each one has some distinctive architectural and artistic touches.
Location: Belur, Hassan district, Karnataka, India
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
7. Mysore
Image Credit: Muhammad Mahdi Karim for Wikimedia Commons
Mysore, simply known as Karnataka’s “cultural hub,” sits about 100 kilometers from Somanathapura’s Chamarajeshwara Temple. It’s an exciting, historic city known for its heritage, awe-inspiring buildings, and various cultural draws. Its charm pulls crowds globally. Mysore Palace, a jaw-dropping giant, lives at Mysore’s heart. It was once home to the Wadiyar rulers. This architectural wonder, filled with detailed carvings, elaborate insides, and impressive domes, is a city icon. Tourists can wander its grand halls, hidden, luxurious rooms, and neat gardens, acquiring a peek into the area’s royal history.
Another Mysore must-see is Chamundi Hills. It’s a beautiful hilltop overlooking the city. The Chamundeshwari Temple sits on top, a sacred Hindu place of worship for goddess Chamundeshwari, the Wodeyar family’s protector. Visitors can either climb the 1,000 steps to the temple or drive up the beautiful road to the top. Here, they can also see the Mahishasura Statue and the Sri Chamundeshwari Temple. Mysore offers many more sites, like the Mysore Zoo, Jaganmohan Palace, Brindavan Gardens, and Mysore Art Gallery. Each provides a different look into Mysore’s rich cultural background.
Location: Southern part of Karnataka, India
Timing: Depends on different activities
Further Read: Mandaragiri Hills
Visit Somanathapura today! See the stunning Chamarajeshwara Temple. Look around—it’s filled with amazing stone carvings. You’ll feel so peaceful here. This building is full of secrets and old tales. It has an old-world charm that’ll take you back in time. Get your Somanathapura trip sorted. Dive into the alluring realm of Hoysala architecture. Book your trip to Karnataka and feel its everlasting charm fill your heart and thoughts. Look around this secret wonder in Karnataka. Craft memories you’ll keep forever.
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Cover Image Credit: Drcbd for Wikimedia Common
Frequently Asked Questions About Chamarajeshwara Temple
What is the Chamarajeshwara Temple?
It's an amazing 13th-century temple sitting in Somanathapura, Karnataka, India. It's known for extraordinary carvings that mix Hindu and Dravidian styles
What can I see at Chamarajeshwara Temple?
Look for eye-catching stone art on the outer walls, featuring Hindu myths. Inside, there's a special place devoted to Lord Shiva, along with smaller shrines and sculptures.
When was the Chamarajeshwara Temple built?
It dates back to the 13th century, from the time of the Hoysala dynasty. Its design is pure Hoysala.
Why is Chamarajeshwara Temple important?
This temple is a priceless example of Hoysala architecture, testifying to a colourful cultural history. It's treasured by devotees of Lord Shiva, and beloved by fans of history and architecture.
How can I visit the Chamarajeshwara Temple?
You'll find the temple in Somnathpur, just 140 kilometres from Bangalore. Drive over or take a tour from a close city. It's open daily, and most visitors spend around two hours exploring.
People Also Read:
Airavatesvara Temple Bhojeshwar Temple Poornathrayeesa Temple
