Chennakesava Temple

Chennakesava Temple at Somnathpur located on the banks of River Cauvery. This temple resembles Hoysala architecture. The main deity Sri Chennakesava Swamy is located in the sanctum sanctorum. Janardhana and Venugopala Swamy Idols which is of 2 feet height is also located in the main shrine.

Chennakesava Temple Architecture

Temple has 3 Vimanas, all these vimanas are positioned on a multi-faceted base which is a like start shape. Sculptures engraved on pillars, walls, doorways, and every inch of the temple. This temple is of 10 mt high with exceptional design and carvings.

The flagstaff is located northeast of the temple entrance. An Interesting story associated with this flagstaff. Great Sculptor Jakanacharya built the temple with perfection. On seeing this deva decided to carry this flawless temple to Indra Lok. When the temple was rising into the air the sculptor mutilated some images on the walls and the structure fell back on terra firma with little change in the positioning which resulted in flagstaff misalignment with the entrance.

Chennakesava Temple History

Temple was built during the reign of Hoysala King Narasimha III ( 1254 AD – 1291 AD) by the General Somanath. The temple construction was completed by 1269 A.D. This temple was the last construction of the Hoysala Kings. Later many Muslim rulers invaded over this region.