Chennakesava Temple
Belur (Hassan District), Karnataka, India, Karnataka
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Hoysala Architecture
Hoysala Empire
UNESCO World Heritage Site (Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas), ASI protected.
Year Built
1117
Built By
King Vishnuvardhana (Hoysala Empire, 12th century)
Patronage
Hoysala Empire
Area
16000 m²
Chennakesava Temple
overview
Overview data: 0% complete
Heritage Overview
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Chennakesava Temple
A UNESCO World Heritage site in Belur, Karnataka, the Chennakesava Temple is a stunning example of Hoysala architecture, commissioned by King Vishnuvardhana in the 12th century. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple is renowned for its intricate soapstone carvings, detailed sculptures depicting epics, dancers (Madanikas), and elaborate friezes. Its star-shaped platform and lathe-turned pillars showcase the zenith of Hoysala craftsmanship, attracting art lovers and historians from all over the world to see it.
Location
Belur (Hassan District), Karnataka, India(Karnataka)
Year Built
1117
Visit Information
Visiting Hours
Approx. 7:30 AM - 7:30 PM, Daily.
Entry Fee
Fee applicable (ASI/UNESCO site, approx. INR 40 Indians, INR 600 Foreigners).
Heritage Status
UNESCO World Heritage Site (Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas), ASI protected.
Preservation Status
Excellent, high-level ASI/UNESCO site conservation.
Historical Context
Commissioned 1117 CE by Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana, its construction marked a pivotal moment, celebrating his victory over the Cholas at Talakadu and potentially reflecting his leanings towards Vaishnavism (possibly influenced by Ramanujacharya, though debated). The use of soft soapstone allowed for unparalleled sculptural intricacy, characteristic of the Hoysala style developed under his reign. Master sculptors like Dasoja and his son Chavana are credited with some carvings. Taking over a century to complete, it served as a major royal temple and symbol of Hoysala power and artistic patronage.
Archaeological Survey
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) - Bengaluru Circle.
Location Map
Architectural Details
Hoysala Architecture
Hoysala Empire
Built by
King Vishnuvardhana (Hoysala Empire, 12th century)
Materials
Soapstone (Chloritic Schist)
Dimensions
Height30m
Width120m
Length134m
Area16000m²
Featured Image
Excavation Details
ASI protected monument & UNESCO World Heritage Site. No recent large-scale excavations within the main complex. Decades of archaeological work focused on documentation, detailed study of Hoysala architecture, intricate sculptures, numerous inscriptions, and extensive conservation.
Restoration Work
Comprehensive ASI conservation, including preservation of intricate carvings (UNESCO).
Patronage
Hoysala Empire
Construction Technique
Stone masonry, Intricate carving, Lathe-turned pillars
Architectural Influences
1 items
Building Techniques
Star-shaped platform (jagati), Extremely detailed carvings, Lathe-turned pillars, Bracket figures (Madanikas)
Coordinates
13.162700, 75.860800
Accessibility Info
{"notes":"Complex mostly on raised platform accessed by steps. Extensive walking on stone surfaces. Intricate areas require careful navigation.","restrooms":"Available nearby, maintained","wheelchair_accessible":"Limited (platform access difficult, ramps may exist but coverage partial)"}
Visitor Facilities
7 items
Best Visit Times
Winter (November to February) offers pleasant weather for detailed exploration. Summers (March-May) can be quite hot. Early mornings are ideal to appreciate the intricate carvings in soft light with fewer people. Weekdays preferred over weekends.
Seasonal Events
2 items
Visitor Restrictions
Modest dress code covering shoulders and knees advised. Footwear must be removed within temple premises. Photography allowed in outer areas; restricted inside sanctum. Videography may require ASI permission/fee. Strictly avoid touching the delicate soapstone carvings.
View Count
1
Is Featured
Yes
Is Published
Yes
Completion Score
67
Completion Status
in-progress
Created By
68408625-44a5-46e3-b746-71290aac1079
Created At
2025-04-28T08:04:19.982836+00:00
Updated At
2025-04-28T08:04:19.982836+00:00