Somanathapura Keshava Temple

Main entrance and facade of the Keshava Temple, located at Somanathapura in Karnataka, India.

A Masterpiece of Hoysala Temple Art Located 24 miles east of Mysore in Karnataka, India, the Keshava Temple in Somanthapura is a shining example of Hoysala architecture. Although not as famous or as big as the Belur – Halebidu temples, it is as stunningly beautiful and ornate. Built in 1258 CE, more than 100 years … Read more

Hampi Virupaksha Temple Murals

Discover the remarkable murals of the Virupaksha Temple at Hampi, among the finest surviving examples of Vijayanagara painting. These nspirational murals depict scenes related to Shiva and Vishnu drawn from ancient Indian texts, including the Ramayana, the Mahabharata, and the Puranas. The most prominent mural portrays the Girijakalyana—the magnificent wedding of Shiva and Parvati—as described in the celebrated epic poem by the Kannada poet Harihara, renowned for his devotion to Shiva. Rich in artistic detail and spiritual symbolism, the murals offer a fascinating glimpse into the religious traditions, literary heritage, and artistic achievements of the Vijayanagara Empire.

Cave 3 at Badami: Discovering the Grandeur of Maha Vishnu

Discover Badami Cave 3, the largest and finest of the Badami cave temples and the crowning achievement of Early Chalukya rock-cut architecture. Dedicated to Maha Vishnu, the cave features elegant mantapa-style architecture, spectacular sculptural panels depicting Vishnu and his avatars—Varaha, Narasimha, and Vamana-Trivikrama—along with intricately carved ceiling bas-reliefs depicting Brahma, Vishnu, Yama, and other Hindu deities. The cave also bears the celebrated 578 CE inscription of Mangalesha, making it an invaluable monument for understanding the artistic, architectural, and historical legacy of the Early Chalukyas.

Cave 2 at Badami: Unveiling the World of Vishnu

Vamanavatara relief depicting Mahabali, Vamana, and Trivikrama in Cave - 2 of the four rock-cut caves of Badami, Karantaka, India

Discover Badami Cave 2, one of the remarkable rock-cut temples of Badami in Karnataka. Dedicated to Vishnu, this cave temple features beautifully carved sculptural panels of Vishnu avatars, Varahavatara and Vamana-Trivikrama, elegant pillars, and eye-catching geometric ceiling designs, including the fish wheel and swastika maze. Though smaller than Caves 1 and 3, Cave 2 offers an important glimpse into the evolution of early Chalukya rock-cut temple architecture and sculptural art during the Early Chalukya period.

Belur Chennakeshava Temple – Navaranga

Main entrance and the facade on the east side of the Chennakeshava Temple in Belur, Karnataka, India

Located in Belur, about 137 miles west of Bangalore in Karnataka, India, the Chennakeshava Temple is an architectural masterpiece and engineering marvel. Dedicated to Vishnu, it is one of the most beautiful temples in India, and with its unique style and features, it stands out from all the rest. Built by the Hoysalas in the … Read more

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