Lakshmidevi Temple, Doddagaddavalli

Lakshmidevi Temple at Doddagaddavalli is one of the earliest surviving mature-phase Hoysala temples, built in 1113 CE by the merchant Barmadeva and his wife Shanthala. It predates the more famous Belur temple by just a few years and gives a fascinating glimpse into the early crystallisation of the Hoysala style.

The five-shrined complex (dedicated to Lakshmi, Shiva, Bhairava, Kali, and Brahma) is unusual for a Hoysala temple and reflects the syncretic religious culture of the era. The sculptures, while slightly less refined than later Hoysala work, are charming and full of energy. It is a hidden gem, far less visited than Belur or Halebidu.