Sringeri Sharada Peetham
Sringeri Sharada Peetham is one of the four cardinal Shankaracharya Peethams established by the Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century CE. This is the most famous temple in Chikmagalur dedicated to Goddess Sharadamba who is worshipped for knowledge and wisdom. According to the legends, Goddess Sharada is said to have guided Adi Shankaracharya herself to choose this sacred spot on the banks of the Tunga River. The Sringeri Sharada Peeth temple is a significant pilgrimage site for the followers of Advaita Vedanta philosophy.
Amrutesvara Temple
Only 67 km from Chikmagalur, stands the Amurtesvara Temple. The temple was built in the 12th century and dedicated to Lord Shiva. The complex is made of black soapstone with circular carvings on the exterior. The inner sanctum exudes an aura of peace and the walls are decorated with sculptures of demons from local folklore. The carvings on the pillars depict stories of Hindu Mythology such as Shiva defeating Gajasura. The temple also bears the emblem of the Hoyasala Dynasty on the temple towers.
Marle Twin Temples
A short ride of 12km from Chikmagalur will lead you to Marle Twin Temples, one of the lesser-known temples from the Hoyasala Dynasty. The two temples are built beside each other and date back to 1150 AD. One of the temples is dedicated to Lord Keshava and is beautifully decorated with intricate carvings and pictures of Lord Vishnu with his consort Lakshmi. The temple also houses the typical Hoyasala architecture style with several pillars of elaborate carvings. The second temple is not as elaborate as the first one but is decked with carvings that tell stories. The second temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and the carvings include him with his consort Parvati along with Ganesha and Kartikeya.
Kondadarama Temple
This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and was built by the Hoyasala Dynasty. The temple was later expanded during the Vijayanagara dynasty to house Sita and Lakshmana. This is a temple that has seen changes throughout the years as different dynasties took over to expand it. However, the Hoyasala style of architecture remains the same while the idols and images reflect the Chalukyan style.
Chennakesava Temple
A scenic drive through Chikmagalur's lush landscapes brings you to Belur, renowned for its stunning Chennakesava Temple. Built by the Hoysala Empire in the 12th century, this temple is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. As you approach the temple complex, the intricacy of the sculptures mesmerises—a celebration of devotion and craftsmanship frozen in stone. Each pillar tells a story through its sculptures, from the divine dance of Lord Shiva to scenes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana, showcasing the Hoysala artisans' unparalleled skill and dedication.
Hoysaleswara Temple
A short journey from Belur leads you to Halebidu, another gem in Chikmagalur's temple heritage. The Hoysaleswara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, stands as a testament to the grandeur of Hoysala architecture. Constructed in the 12th century, this temple is renowned for its intricate carvings, which adorn every surface with a symphony of mythological narratives, divine beings, and intricate floral motifs. The outer walls of the Hoysaleswara Temple are a canvas of artistic expression, depicting gods, goddesses, and celestial beings in various poses—a testament to the Hoysala dynasty's patronage of arts and culture.