Sakleshwara Temple

Famed for the annual rath yatra in February, the Sri Sakleshwara Swamy Temple is located only 1.5 kilometres from the bus stand of Sakleshpur and is one of the oldest in the state. Visit anytime between 6 AM and 6 PM and you can explore both the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Hemavathy River by which the temple is constructed.

Built during the 11th to 14th century when the Hoysala empire flourished in the town, the temple features the exquisite Hoysala craftsmanship. It is the name of the temple from which the town derived its name. As a matter of fact, the temple is smaller in size than the standard South Indian temples. At the entrance of Sakleshpur town, the temple dated back to over 600 years, stands as a sentinel and the majestic colossal statue of Lord Shiva is the main attraction of the temple. Thousands of devotees and tourists visit the Rath Yatra to take part in the parade with Dholu Kunitha, Drum sets, Marshavadya and Nandidhwaja while onlookers offer camphor, fruits, flowers etc.