Amrutheshwara Temple
One must admit the fact that the Hoysala dynasty is the major contributor to the heritage richness of our Karnataka state. They built hundreds of beautifully carved temples around Bangalore. No technology of present era could match the craft and creativity one can find in these temples built by Hoysalas. Beluru and Halebeedu temples are classic examples of architectural marvel of Hoysalas. However, there are a huge number of small temples scattered across Karnataka which are less familiar. Most of them are badly maintained and managed. We have detailed about such temples in our Basaralu and Javagal blog posts. Amrutheshwara Temple of Amrutapura is one of the contradictory example for this. This is one of the rare Hoysala temples which maintained in a good state by the authority.
Reaching Amrutheshwara Temple
Around 260 km from Bangalore, close to Tarikere, is the charming village of Amritapura. Here stands one of the oldest known Hoysala temples named the Amrutheshwara Temple. The best route to reach Amrutheshwara Temple from Bangalore is via Hiriyur and Hosadurga. If you are traveling from Chikkamagaluru or Shivamogga, you can reach the place via Tarikere. Amrutheshwara Temple is 260 km from Bangalore, 48 km from Shivamogga and 65 km from Chikkamagaluru
Amrutheshwara Temple was built in the year 1196 by Amrutheshwara Dandanayaka under the rule of Hoysala King Veera Ballala II. This temple is a classic example of ancient Hoysala architecture.
The exterior wall of the temple has panel sculptures, scenes from Hindu epics and legends. Miniature decorative towers on the exterior walls of the temple are one of the unique features of this temple. This temple is in the ekakuta style with just one vimana. The Tower of the temple is adorned with the sculptures of kirthimukhas and miniature decoratives. Temple tower is beautifully decorated with kirthimukhas (fierce monster face). Mallitamma, one of the great architects of the Hoysala dynasty, started his career here in the Amrutheshwara Temple. This adds more relevance to the historical importance of this temple.
The rows of shining lathe turned pillars that support the ceiling of the mantapa depict Hoysala-Chalukya decorative characteristics. The main deity of the temple is Lord Shiva. The shiva linga at the temple is a 300-year-old Trimurti brought from the River Kandikevale in Nepal.
On the auspicious day of Sankranthi and Mahashivaratri, thousands of devotees visit this place to take the blessings of Lord Shiva.
Next time when you are visiting Chikmaglur, don’t miss visiting this beautiful ancient temple.
- Timings: 30 AM -10.30 AM and 4.00 PM to 6.00 PM
Directions
Live the experience!!
Don’t miss to watch our video on this temple…