About Chennakeshava Temple Yatra
- The Chennakeshava Temple in Belur, Karnataka, stands as a magnificent testament to the artistic and architectural brilliance of the Hoysala dynasty. Built in the 12th century by King Vishnuvardhana to commemorate his victory over the Cholas, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped here as Chennakeshava, meaning “handsome Vishnu.”
- Renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship, the temple showcases an astonishing array of intricate carvings, detailed friezes, and finely sculpted figures that adorn nearly every surface. The central deity, carved from black stone, is widely considered one of the most graceful representations of Vishnu in South India.
- Architecturally, the temple is distinguished by its star-shaped platform, lathe-turned pillars, and ornate pillared halls. Narrative panels depict vibrant scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Bhagavata Purana, each rendered with astonishing detail and emotional depth. These carvings not only serve a decorative purpose but also bring sacred stories to life in stone.
- What truly sets Chennakeshava apart is the delicacy and precision of its sculpture work—hallmarks of the Hoysala style—which elevate it from a place of worship to a celebration of divine artistry. The temple complex also includes subsidiary shrines, a tranquil courtyard, and an atmosphere of serene devotion, drawing pilgrims, historians, and art lovers alike.
- Recognized as one of the finest examples of Hoysala architecture, the Chennakeshava Temple remains a living monument to the confluence of faith, craftsmanship, and royal patronage in medieval South India.
Destinations Covered:
- Bangalore
- Lepakshi
- Hospet
- Hampi
- Chikmagalur
- Belur
- Halebidu
- Hassan
Attractions
- Veerabhadra Temple 16th-century Vijayanagara-style temple
- Hanging Pillar Engineering marvel
- Nandi Statue Monolithic bull sculpture
- Attractions En route countryside of Karnataka
- Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple & Stone Chariot
- Lotus Mahal, Elephant Stables, Hazara Rama Temple
- Queen's Bath, Matanga Hill, Hampi Bazaare
- Queen's Bath, Matanga Hill, Hampi Bazaare
- Queen's Bath, Matanga Hill, Hampi Bazaare
- Chennakeshava Temple, Belur Richly sculpted Hoysala temple
- Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu Exquisite outer wall carvings
- Local crafts and heritage villages
- Shravanabelagola (optional) Jain pilgrimage center with 57-ft monolithic statue of Gommateshwara (90 km round trip)
- Optional Bangalore short tour If time allows
Itinerary Detail
- Arrive at Bangalore Airport/Railway Station in the morning
- Meet & greet, then drive to Lepakshi (located in Andhra Pradesh)
- Visit Veerabhadra Temple Complex, explore the hanging pillar and massive Nandi
- Check-in to hotel in Lepakshi / nearby area
- Evening at leisure
- Overnight stay in Lepakshi
- After breakfast, depart for Hospet, the gateway town to Hampi
- Drive through rural Karnataka with stops for refreshments
- Arrive in Hospet by evening, check in to hotel
- Rest and relax
- Overnight stay in Hospet
- Full-day sightseeing in Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Marvel at ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire, dating back to the 14th–16th centuries
- Lunch at a local restaurant or return to hotel
- Optional sunset view from Hemakuta Hill or Matanga Hill
- Return to Hospet in the evening
- Overnight stay in Hospet
- After breakfast, drive to Chikmagalur, a tranquil hill station
- Check-in to coffee estate homestay or hotel upon arrival
- Evening at leisure: explore local market or enjoy estate walk
- Overnight stay in Chikmagalur
- Breakfast at hotel, depart for Belur (25 km)
- Explore Chennakeshava Temple, known for intricate carvings
- Proceed to Halebidu (16 km) to see Hoysaleswara Temple
- Continue to Hassan (35 km), check into hotel
- Evening free to explore town
- Overnight stay in Hassan
- Relaxed breakfast at hotel
- Optional half-day excursion to Shravanabelagola (1.5 hrs drive one way)
- Climb 600 steps to view the majestic Jain statue
- Return to Hassan for lunch
- Free evening
- Overnight stay in Hassan
- Early breakfast and check out
- Drive back to Bangalore
- Drop-off at airport or railway station for onward journey
- Tour ends with cherished memories
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Package Inclusions:
- Accommodation in well-rated hotels (6 nights)
- Daily breakfast at hotel
- All transfers and sightseeing in private AC vehicle
- English/Hindi-speaking driver
- Fuel, parking charges, tolls, and driver allowance
- Guided sightseeing at major monuments (if opted)
- Applicable government taxes
Package Exclusions:
- Airfare / Train fare
- Lunches and Dinners
- Entry tickets to monuments, temples, or attractions
- Local guide fees (if not pre-included)
- Tips, personal expenses, room service, laundry
- Travel insurance
- Optional activities (Shravanabelagola excursion, estate tours)