Somanathapura

Talakad Karnataka

#1 Among Things To Do in Talakadu

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Label : Top Attraction

Tags : Temple

Timings : 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM

Time Required : 2-3 hrs

Entry Fee : Indians: INR 5,
Foreign Nationals: INR 10,
Children (Up to 12 years): Free

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Also Refered As:

Chennakesava Temple

Somanathapura, Talakadu Overview

Somanathapura Temple is a very famous attraction. It was one of the first and the best representation of the Hoysala architecture. It has an ancient structure marked by its beauty. Tourists from near and far come to visit the temple to get a view of the beautiful place. Somanathapura Temple has been nominated for the world heritage site status of UNESCO and is amongst three Hoysala temples which have been nominated for the same. It is very famous for its delicate carvings and sculptures bearing metal like polishing.

The temple was constructed by the general of King Narasimha III, Somanatha in the year 1268. It was built during the rule of Hoysala which was as old as 250 years at this time. A stone slab is present at the very entrance of the temple comprising of a detailed description of the temple. It is easy to read and understand for the general public visiting the temple.

It is believed that after a village was established on the bank of the Kaveri river, Dandanayaka Somantha took permission from King Narasimha III to build a temple and dedicate it to Lord Vishnu. The temple was not only made to seek blessings of the Almighty but also to represent the Hoysala architecture and its antique carvings.

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Architecture of the Somnathpura Temple

The temple has been constructed on the bank of the Kaveri River in Hoysala architectural style. It has been built on a raised platform comprising of three shrines. All these three shrines are symmetrical and have been constructed in a 16 point star shape. Initially, idols of Lord Keshava, Janardhana and Venugopala were present on the shrines, but today, the idol of Lord Keshava is missing.

There are two attics in the temple with towers present between them which are covered with a courtyard. The outer walls have beautiful carvings on them. One very distinctive feature of the temple is that it has 16 different types of ceilings each beautifully designed.

Tips For Visiting Somanathapura

1. The best time to visit the temple is during the months between October and March.

2. Pets are not allowed inside the temple, and one must maintain cleanliness.