Somanathpur temple, located in a small village about 40 kms. east of Mysore City in Karnataka, is renowned for its great architectural and sculptural beauty. Situated on the right bank of the river Cauvery, the site was selected by Somanatha Danayaka, a Governor under the Hoysala Empire, in about 1258 A.D. He built the temple dedicated to Keshava (Vishnu) in the centre of the village. The temple is a 'Trikutachala' in style, featuring a combination of three shrines built in a cross-shaped plan with star-shaped, sixteen-sided towers (vimana). Built on a raised stone platform, the outer walls are elaborately carved with friezes of elephants, horsemen, scroll work, and episodes from the epics Ramayana, Bhagavata, and Mahabharata. Sculpted by master craftsmen like Mallitamma, Chaudaiah, Baliah, and Elemashiah out of grey steatite stone, the temple is also famous for its intricately carved ceilings and pillared Navaranga Hall. The sanctum sanctorum houses idols of Venugopala, Keshava (replaced), and Janardhana.
Exquisite Hoysala architecture, intricate soapstone carvings, and the Keshava Temple
👕 Dress Code & Rules
Modest clothing recommended
As per ASI guidelines (nominal fee for Indians, higher for foreign nationals)
Available near the temple site
Small local eateries available; better dining options in Mysore
9:00 AM – 5:30 PM