Somanathapura, Karnataka

Location on Map

Somanathapura is a town located at the right bank of the Kaveri river, 35 km from the historic Mysore city in Mysore district, Karnataka state, India. Somanathapura is famous for the Chennakesava Temple (also called Kesava or Keshava temple) built by Soma, a Dandanayaka (commander) in 1268 CE under Hoysala Empire King Narasimha III, when the Hoysalas were the major power in South India. The Keshava temple is one of the finest and most complete examples of Hoysala architecture and is in a very well preserved condition.

Chenna Kesava Temple

It has three sanctums on the west, north and south to Kesava, Venugopala and Janardana, all connected. It is an ornately carved temple of magnificent craftsmanship. The ceilings and door jambs leading to the sanctum sanctorum are exquisitely carved.

How to Reach:

By Air: Mysuru

By Rail: Mysuru

By Road: Somanathapura is 35 km east of Mysuru.

Tips:

Timings: 8.30 am to 5.30 pm

Entrance fee: Rs. 5 (foreigners Rs. 100), Video Rs.25

Contact:

Regional Tourist Office (0821) 2422096

KSTDC (0821) 2423652, 2525349