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Kesava Temple, Somanathapura

ಕೇಶವ ದೇವಾಲಯ, ಸೋಮನಾಥಪುರ

Mysuru, Hassan, Karnataka

Hoysala dynasty (1268 CE)HoysalaHindu (Vaishnava)UNESCOAI Compiled
Kesava Temple, Somanathapura
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Somanathapura Keshava Temple — yatrikaone.comAll copyright belongs to the original artist.

About

The Kesava Temple at Somanathapura is considered to be the most complete and best-preserved Hoysala temple. Built in 1268 CE by Somanatha, a general of King Narasimha III, the temple is dedicated to Kesava (Vishnu).

The temple sits on a star-shaped platform (jagati) and has three shrines — dedicated to Kesava, Janardhana, and Venugopala. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2023 as part of the Hoysala temples group.

Every inch of the temple's outer walls is covered in multiple horizontal friezes of elephants, horses, scrolling foliage, mythological scenes, and panels of deities — all carved with astonishing detail in chloritic schist (soapstone).