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Karnataka

Somnathpur Temple

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map

January

16.2 - 29.3 °C

February

17.3 - 31.4 °C

March

19.4 - 33.6 °C

April

21 - 34.3 °C

May

21.2 - 33.4 °C

June

20.4 - 30 °C

July

19.9 - 28.7 °C

August

19.8 - 28.6 °C

September

19.7 - 29.5 °C

October

19.7 - 29.4 °C

November

18.7 - 28.7 °C

December

16.9 - 28.3 °C


Major Airports :

Mysore Airport (MYQ), Mysore

Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), Bengaluru

Nearest Railway Station :

Mysuru Junction Railway Station (MYS)

Major Airports :

Mysore Airport (MYQ), Mysore

Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), Bengaluru

Step into a timeless marvel of craftsmanship and devotion

Seated quietly in the Somnathpur village, among Mysuru city, Karnataka, the Somnathpur Temple has survived for generations as an emblem of Hoysala architecture and pious devotion. Consecrated to Lord Keshava (an avatar of Lord Vishnu), it has divine sculptures, and an exciting layout. This temple was built in the 13th century with sculptures of gods and goddesses and intricate carvings that have spanned centuries to create a peaceful atmosphere.

Unveiling the legacy: genesis and relevance

The Somnathpur Temple, the Chennakesava Temple, dates back to 1268 CE and was commissioned by Soma, an army commander for the Hoysala king Narasimha III. The Kesava Temple signifies the crowning glory of the Hoysala dynasty's art patronage, publicising the dynasty's support to culture and religion. Unlike many temples that have been repeatedly enlarged over centuries, Somnathpur Temple is still in its original design, thus providing a pure look at the creative vision behind the period of the Hoysala Dynasty.

This temple is also known as Chennakesava which means the beautiful Kesava and hence has beauty on its name itself. The Hoysala architectural style came to its pinnacle during the temple construction, which was distinguished by the 5-tier star-shaped platform, detailed carvings, and significant religious iconography.

Architectural marvel

The temple is a star-shaped one and has a platform or a mandapa which is a unique feature of the Hoysala style of architecture. Instead of just remaining an ordinary façade, this design not only makes the temple more attractive but also enables the display of a huge number of sculptures and carvings as well.

The whole temple was decorated in detail from every square inch, showing various deities, celestial beings, mythological scenes, and how people lived every day. There is vertical banding on the wall; the bands are filled with amazingly intricate sculptures, which reveal the undeniable skill and creativity of its artisans.

The temple has a distinctive design with a trikuta (three sanctums) arrangement with separate shrines dedicated to Lord Keshava, Venugopala, and Janardhana. The artistically-designed sanctums with the amazingly carved idols of the deities spread a divine sense of serenity for the visitors.

The temple roofs and columns are examples of the skill of craftsmen - they have carved complex flowers, geometric designs and iconographic details. The central hall is crowned on the ceiling by a luxurious and decorative carved medallion in lotus style, which is what catches the eye of the visitor.


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Timings

Opening time - 07:00 AM

Closing time - 09:00 PM

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Legends and lore

The most distinctive feature of the Somnathpur Temple is not only its aesthetic splendour but also the stories that evoke the temple’s underlying spiritual element and associations. An interesting story is about Soma, the temple deity, who is considered to have built the temple in order to be granted divine favour and to secure his place in the other world.      

One of the other stories gives accounts of the divine inspiration for the building of the temple. It is said that the artisans who were constructing the temple were directed by heavenly elements to accomplish the intricate carvings that are present in the temple.

A celebration of devotion

Despite the fact that the Somnathpur Temple is not used for regular worship because of its function as a protected monument, it still holds an important place in the religious life of the community. Some special rituals and ceremonies are performed, it is especially noted during important Hindu festivals like Vaikuntha Ekadashi and Janmashtami. These festivals are a pilgrimage place for believers and tourists who come to enjoy the temple's spiritual vibes and aesthetics.

Beyond the temple: Discovering Mysuru's heritage

Just a short drive from Somnathpur, the Mysore Palace could be regarded as a great example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. Found close to the hillock of Chamundi, the Chamundeshwari Temple is a popular site and also gives picturesque views of Mysuru. Besides, it is also a favourite destination for trekking and taking long walks in nature. The St. Philomena's Church in India is a well-known gothic-styled church with stained glass windows. It is known for its architecture. The church's spires are connected and visible, and the calmness of the atmosphere gives a sharp contrast to the busy city.