CHENNAKESHAVA TEMPLE SOMNATHPUR

ABOUT LOCATION

Located about 35 km from Mysore, Somnathpur Temple, also known as the Chennakeshava temple, is a popular shrine near Mysore. The temple, nominated for the status of UNESCO World Heritage Site, has miniature and intricate carvings that trace the Hoysala style of architecture.

 ARCHITECTURE

The 13th-century Chennakesava temple is built on a raised platform, supported at angles by figures of elephants facing outwards. It is situated within a walled courtyard and is encircled by an open veranda with 64 cells. The temple has three symmetrical sanctums and is built in 16 point star shape. The sanctums had idols of Lords Keshava, Janardhana and Venugopala, all forms of Vishnu. Currently, the statues of only two remain; the idol of Lord Keshava is missing. 

HISTORY

During the reign of King Narasimha III in 1268 AD, Commander Somanath established a village on the banks of River Kaveri as an agrahara(settlement) for the people surrounding the area and named it after himself. Later, Somnath requested the king to grant him permission and resources to build a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. 

The Chennakesava temple was the largest and most exquisite temple in Somnatha’s Agraharam. The temple, subjected to damage several times in history, is considered inauspicious and does not conduct poojas. The Archeological Survey of India currently maintains the site.

THINGS TO KNOW

The temple walls and the pillars feature many inscriptions in the old Kannada script. It mentions the yearly contribution of 3000 gold coins bestowed by King Narasimha III for the temple’s upkeep. Some of these walls are adorned with engravings of different events from the Hindu epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata. The names of the sculptors are also etched onto these walls, a common practice during the Hoysala rule.

 Another exciting feature of the Chennakesava temple is the 16 distinctive ceilings, which present each stage in the blooming of a plantain tree. According to Hindu beliefs, a plantain tree is considered the symbol of prosperity and fertility. The tree is also associated with Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the Universe. 

 PLAN YOUR VISIT

• While the temple is open throughout the year, the best time to visit it is between October to March when the weather is pleasant.
• To avoid the scorching sun, visiting the temple in the evening is recommended. 
• You can avail the facility of a government-certified guide to understand the temple and its heritage better.
• Visitors must have a smartphone and a digital payment account to purchase entry tickets, as payments are only accepted through UPI.

NEARBY LOCATIONS

• Talakadu(25.2 km): Talakadu, a historical site, has several temples of ancient importance.
• Lalitha Mahal Palace(29.8 km): One of the most attractive heritage houses, it is the second largest palace in Mysore after the Mysore Palace.
• Karanji Lake (32.3 km): A beautiful bird sanctuary known to possess the largest aviary in the country.
• Chamundi Hills (38 km): Famous for the Chamundeshwari Temple, located on top of this hill, it is a popular attraction among trekkers.
• Shivasamudra Falls(50 km): One of the best places to spend your holiday, it is the second largest waterfall in India and the 16th largest in the world.