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The state of Karnataka has a vast history and is culturally rich, which is why it has many prominent temples, some of which are more than a thousand years old. Karnataka temples are famous for their architecture from the Hoysala period. The ancient temples in the state are visually appealing due to their distinctive architecture and are surrounded by natural beauty. The temples are particularly well-known for their deep ties to the country’s history.
Karnataka is a state that has kept its cultural heritage alive even in modern times. Many sites in the state are some of the most frequented places in the country, visited by both national and foreign visitors. The state’s primary attractions are undoubtedly its temples, which are sacred sites of worship and immersed in the country’s history, legacy, and customs. The majority of these temples are ancient architectural masterpieces.
Most Famous Temples in Karnataka
There are several breathtaking temples around the state, and creating a Karnataka famous temples chart would not be justified. Yet, in terms of popularity, below is a list of the eight most renowned temples in Karnataka.
Udupi Shri Krishna Temple, Udupi
The Udupi Shri Krishna temple was completed in the 13th century in the Udupi district. It was founded by Shri Madhavacharya. It is believed that Shri Madhavachaya found the stone ball of sandalwood in which the idol of Lord Krishna was buried. Udupi is ranked first among the seven pilgrimage sites. Throughout the year, thousands of religious devotees flock to the Krishna temple to catch a sight of Lord Krishna.
Keshava Temple, Somnathpur
Another impressive Hoysala edifice, maybe the last, is the Keshava temple located in the Mysore district of Karnataka. It is also known as Chennakesava Temple and was created by Somanatha Dandanayaka in 1258 CE. The Keshava temple has been erected on an elevated platform with a Pradakshina walkway around it. The temple is well-planned and has three shrines and Vimanas.
Vidyashankara Temple, Sringeri
In 1338 A.D., the Vidyashankara Temple was built. It’s a one-of-a-kind stone building that incorporates Hoysala (Chalukya) and Dravidian architectural styles. This temple has six doors and stands on a finely carved pedestal. The mandapa is encircled by twelve pillars, each portraying one of the twelve zodiac signs. They’re designed so that the sun shines on each of the twelve pillars in the Hindu calendar’s chronological order. At the top of each column, a Yali clutches a rolling stone ball.
Vittala Temple, Hampi
The most spectacular architectural showcase of Hampi, Vittala Temple, is located at the heart of the city’s attractions. No amount of words can adequately describe this scene. The temple is a vast site with a compound wall and entry towers. This complex contains several halls, pavilions, and temples.
Kollur Mookambika Temple, Kollur
The Kollur Mookambika Temple, one of India’s most famous temples, is situated on the Western Ghats’ Kodachadri foothills. This temple, which is over 1200 years old, is exceptionally stunning. The lore behind this temple is also incredibly fascinating. Legend has it that it was here that Goddess Parvati killed Kamasutra – an evil presence who was harassing the people in the region.
Dharmasthala Manjunatha Temple
Sri Manjunatha Temple, one of South India’s most revered sacred places, is an embodiment of spirituality and religious importance. This Shiva temple is located in the holy town of Dharmasthala, Karnataka. Majunatheshwara, the temple’s principal deity, is worshipped in the form of shivalinga. In addition to the main deity, Dharma Daevas and Shakti idols are also present in the temple and are worshiped by visitors. It is believed that Kanyakumari, Kalarkayi, Kalarahu, and Kumaraswamy, Lord Dharma’s four Guardian Spirits, reside here.
Siddheshwar Temple, Haveri
Made from soapstone, Siddheshwar Temple is situated in the Haveri locale in Karnataka. Siddhesvara temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and was built in the twelfth century. It is a model of Western Chalukyan craftsmanship. Lord Vishnu, Goddess Lakshmi, the Sun God, and the God and Goddess of Snakes are among the gods sculpted in this temple.
Kedareshwara Temple, Balligavi
Kedareswara Temple is an excellent example of Hoysala temple construction. This beautiful temple has three sanctums, with Lord Shiva’s temple in the south and Lord Vishnu’s shrine in the north. There is also a six-pillared corridor in the temple.
Conclusion
Karnataka is a state that has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Therefore, it is not surprising that the state has some of the most exquisite range of architecture. This is especially evident in the temples of Karnataka, which are not only unique in terms of their architectural styles but have an air of mystique around them. It is incredible how a single state can house so many temples from several dynasties. Although it will be challenging to pick the best temples from the long list of the same from Karnataka, this article has tried to select eight of the most renowned temples and discussed their history and the myths and lore surrounding them.
