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Sri Chennakeshava Temple

The Sri Chennakeshava Temple in Chitradurga is believed to have been established to honour Lord Vishnu in his form as Chennakeshava. The term "Chennakeshava" translates to "handsome Keshava," a name for Vishnu.

Timings

6.00 Am to 9.00 Pm

Entry Fee

No Entry Fee

  1. The Sri Chennakeshava Temple in Chitradurga is believed to have been established to honour Lord Vishnu in his form as Chennakeshava.
  2. The term "Chennakeshava" translates to "handsome Keshava," a name for Vishnu.
  3. The exact date of the temple's establishment is unclear, but it is believed to have been built during the Hoysala period, around the 12th century. The Hoysalas were known for their dedication to constructing grand temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu.


Hoysala Influence:


  1. The architectural style and iconography of the temple suggest a strong Hoysala influence, a dynasty renowned for its temple architecture and devotion to Vishnu.
  2. The Hoysalas ruled parts of Karnataka from the 10th to the 14th centuries, and they constructed many temples dedicated to Vishnu, including the famous Chennakeshava Temple in Belur.


Local Patronage:



  1. The temple may have been supported by local chieftains and rulers who continued the tradition of temple building and maintenance.
  2. These patrons contributed to the temple’s expansions, renovations, and the addition of various shrines and deities over the centuries.

Do's and Don'ts

  1. Dress appropriately: As with most Hindu temples, it is important to dress modestly when visiting Sri Chennakeshava Temple. This means avoiding clothing that is too revealing or that has offensive imagery. Men should wear long pants and a shirt, while women should wear a sari, salwar kameez, or a long skirt and blouse.
  2. Remove your shoes: Before entering the temple, you will need to remove your shoes. There is a designated area outside of the temple where you can leave your shoes.
  3. Wash your hands: Before entering the inner sanctum of the temple, you will need to wash your hands. There is a water fountain outside of the temple where you can do this.
  4. Be respectful: The temple is a place of worship, so it is important to be respectful of the other devotees. This means speaking in a low voice, avoiding taking photos or videos inside the temple, and not disturbing others who are praying.
  5. Offer prayers: The main purpose of visiting a Hindu temple is to offer prayers to the deity. You can do this by standing in front of the idol of the deity and closing your eyes. You can then say a prayer in your own words or you can chant a mantra.
  6. Make an offering: If you wish, you can make an offering to the deity. This can be anything from flowers and fruit to money or jewellery. The offerings are placed in a designated area in front of the idol.
  7. Take prasad: After you have offered your prayers, you can take prasad. Prasad is sanctified food that has been offered to the deity. It is considered to be a blessing, so it is important to eat it with respect.


  1. Do not bring alcohol or drugs: Alcohol and drugs are not allowed in the temple premises.
  2. Do not smoke: Smoking is not allowed in the temple premises.
  3. Do not eat meat: Eating meat is not allowed in the temple premises.
  4. Do not touch the idols: The idols are considered to be sacred, so it is important not to touch them.
  5. Do not take photos or videos of the idols: Taking photos or videos of the idols is not allowed in some temples. It is always best to ask a temple official before taking any photos or videos.
  6. Do not talk loudly: It is important to speak in a low voice in the temple, as it is a place of worship.
  7. Do not argue or fight: Arguing or fighting is not allowed in the temple premises.
  8. Do not beg: Begging is not allowed in the temple premises.
  9. Do not litter: It is important to keep the temple premises clean. Do not litter and dispose of your trash properly.


Dress Code

  1. Men are advised to wear shirts or kurtas that cover their shoulders and chest properly. T-shirts with decent necklines are acceptable.
  2. Women should wear tops, blouses, or kurtas that cover their shoulders, chest, and midriff. Avoid sleeveless or low-cut tops.


How to reach

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By Air:

Nearest Airport:

  1. The nearest airport with regular flight services is Hubli Airport (HBX), located approximately 200 kilometres from Chitradurga.
  2. From Hubli Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a connecting flight/bus to reach Chitradurga and then proceed to the temple as mentioned above.


By Train:

  1. Chitradurga Railway Station is the nearest railway station to the temple. You can reach Chitradurga by train from various cities across Karnataka and neighbouring states.
  2. From Chitradurga Railway Station, you can hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or use local buses to reach the temple.


By Road:

From Chitradurga City:

  1. The temple is located in Municipal Colony, Maniyur, which is around 18 kilometres from Chitradurga city centre.
  2. You can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or private vehicle from Chitradurga to reach the temple. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Rivers


  1. Tungabhadra River: The Tungabhadra River is one of the major rivers in Karnataka. It flows relatively close to Chitradurga, providing water for irrigation and supporting agriculture in the region.
  2. Vedavathi River: The Vedavathi River is a tributary of the Tungabhadra River. It flows through Chitradurga district, enriching the local ecology and serving as a water source.
  3. Kumudvathi River: The Kumudvathi River is another tributary of the Tungabhadra River. It is known for its scenic beauty and plays a vital role in sustaining biodiversity in the area.


Cities and Towns



  1. Chitradurga: Chitradurga is a major city in Karnataka, located about 18 kilometres from Municipal Colony, Maniyur. It is known for its historical fort, Chitradurga Fort, and is an important cultural and economic centre in the region.
  2. Hiriyur: Hiriyur is a town located approximately 20 kilometres from Maniyur. It is known for its agricultural activities and is an important hub for trade and commerce.
  3. Hosadurga: Hosadurga is a town situated around 30 kilometres from Maniyur. It is known for its natural beauty and is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and trekkers.
  4. Turuvekere: Turuvekere is a town located around 45 kilometres from Maniyur. It is known for its temples, including the Chennakeshava Temple, and is a pilgrimage destination for devotees.
  5. Sira: Sira is a town situated approximately 50 kilometres from Maniyur. It has historical significance and is known for its ancient monuments and cultural heritage.
  6. Tiptur: Tiptur is a town located around 55 kilometres from Maniyur. It is known for its agricultural produce, especially coffee, and is a bustling market town.
  7. Davangere: Davangere is a major city situated around 75 kilometres from Maniyur. It is known for its educational institutions, industries, and vibrant culture.