Chikmagalur reveals its charm step by step the fertile coffee plantations, enchanting waterfalls, tranquil lakes, and historic temples.

Apart from coffee plantations and hiking trails, Chikmagalur also has some ancient temples. The temples in Chikmagalur tell stories of a bygone era and incredible architecture.

Sringeri Sharada Peetham: 

Sringeri Sharada Peetham is, without a doubt, the most significant of the four cardinal Shankaracharya Peethams set up by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century CE. Chikmagalur has the most famous temple of Goddess Sharadamba, who is worshipped for her power and qualities of being a great teacher and a quiet listener. It is said in the narrations that the deity herself led Adi Shankaracharya to this holy place by the banks of the River Tunga, where he made his monastery.

The Sringeri Sharada Peeth temple becomes a must-visit place for the believers of the non-dualistic philosophy to practice their faith.

Amrutesvara Temple:

The Amurtesvara Temple is just 67 km from Chikmagalur. This temple was established in the 12th century and was devoted to Lord Shiva. The whole structure is made of black soapstone, and its outer walls are circularly carved. The inner sanctum gives a feeling of tranquility, and the walls show demons from local myths as decorations. The pillars are also carved, and they depict tales of Hindu mythology, like Shiva overcoming Gajasura.

Besides, the temple has the symbol of the Hoyasala Dynasty on the towers of the temple.

Marle Twin Temples:

A brisk journey of 12 kilometers from Chikmagalur will bring you to the Marle Twin Temples, a very quiet temple of the Hoyasala Dynasty. The twin shrines are placed next to each other and are said to be from the year 1150 AD. The first temple is for Keshava and is spectacularly carved and painted with images of Vishnu together with Lakshmi. Besides, the temple is very much in the Hoyasala style and has many ornate pillared halls.

On the other hand, the second temple is simpler in construction but has pleasant carvings that narrate. The second temple is for Shiva, and the carvings portray him with Parvati, along with Ganesha and Kartikeya.

Kondadarama Temple:

The Hoyasala Dynasty constructed this famous temple in Chikmagalur in honor of Lord Rama. Afterward, the Vijayanagara dynasty added further enhancements to the temple so that it could accommodate Sita and Lakshmana. This is a temple that has experienced transformations over the years as different dynasties took charge to enlarge it.

The Hoyasala architecture, however, does not change, while the sculptures and paintings reveal the influence of Chalukyan art.

Chennakesava Temple:

A pleasant and picturesque drive that winds through the verdant landscapes of Chikmagalur leads you to the town of Belur, which is famous for its awe-inspiring Chennakesava Temple. The temple, which dates back to the 12th century, is a creation of the Hoysala Empire and is a paradigm of Dravidian architecture. The moment one gets to the temple complex, the delicacy of the carvings simply enchants and reveals to the onlooker a parade of faith and skill captured in stone.

With each column one can hear the narrations, displayed through their carvings, right from the heavenly dance of Lord Shiva to the epic battles of Mahabharata and Ramayana, thus proving the Hoysala artists’ unparalleled mastery and commitment.

Conclusion:

Chikmagalur is not only a beautiful hill station but also a holy place where people can go to find peace, worship, and renewal of spirit. The well-known temples around Chikmagalur, located among the green hills and quiet atmosphere, are a great combo of nature and God’s power. If you go there to get blessings, meditate in silence, or just run away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, these temples will give you a very relaxing and satisfying experience.

A religious trip to Chikmagalur does not only make one’s faith stronger but also makes one feel rejuvenated, enlightened, and closer to one’s inner tranquillity.