Amruteshvara Temple, Amruthapura
Hoysala stone carving on the northern plains
At Amruthapura, north of Tarikere, stands the Amruteshvara temple — a Hoysala shrine built in 1196 CE by Amrutheshwara Dandanayaka, a commander under king Veera Ballala II. Its star-shaped plan, lathe-turned pillars and a long band of finely carved friezes make it one of the best-preserved Hoysala temples in the district, quieter and less visited than Belur or Halebidu.
What to do here
- Study the star-shaped Hoysala plan
- Trace the carved epic friezes
- See the lathe-turned pillars in the hall
The finest example of Hoysala architecture within Chikmagalur district.
History
Built in 1196 CE under the Hoysala king Veera Ballala II. The temple is attributed to the noted architect Ruvari Mallitamma among others, and its friezes depict scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Travel tips
About 67 km from Chikmagalur town, near Tarikere. An ASI-protected Hoysala temple of 1196 CE, built by Amrutheshwara Dandanayaka under Veera Ballala II — the lathe-turned pillars and the long carved frieze are the reason to come. Very few visitors; you will often have it to yourself.
Please note
Do: walk the full circuit of the outer wall for the frieze. Do: remove footwear before entering the temple. Don't: touch or rub the carvings. Don't: climb on the plinth or the sculptures. Don't: use flash photography inside.
Stay nearby
Places to stay around Amruteshvara Temple, Amruthapura
Combine your trip
Places near Amruteshvara Temple, Amruthapura
ViewpointZ Point
Kemmanagundi's sunset ridge
Shanti Falls
A small fall on the Z Point path that almost nobody stops at — which is the whole point.
DamBhadra Dam, Lakkavalli
One of Karnataka's oldest big dams, holding the reservoir that forms the tiger reserve's western edge.
Kalhatti Falls
A cliff cascade over a small temple