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Kedareshwara Temple

Tumakuru, Karnataka, India
This hidden gem is a classic Hoysala masterpiece dedicated to Lord Shiva. Built in the 13th century by Narasimha III, it represents the pinnacle of soapstone carving. Unlike the crowded temples of Belur, this site offers a peaceful atmosphere where you can admire the 16-pointed star-shaped sanctum. The temple is an Ekakuta (single shrine) design, featuring a Garbhagriha, Sukhanasi, and a Navaranga. It remains largely unfinished, yet the intricate detailing on the outer walls is breathtaking. Visitors can see a variety of deities and celestial dancers. The serene surroundings of Nagalapura village make it a perfect retreat for history lovers and spiritual seekers alike. It is managed by the Archaeological Survey of India and stands as a testament to the artistic glory of the Hoysala dynasty. Many carvings depict scenes from Puranas and daily life of that era. Despite its age, the structure remains remarkably intact, though the original tower is missing. It is a place where time seems to stand still.

General information

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    Ideal Duration:

    Duration: 1. 5 Hours
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    Place Type:

    Category: Heritage & Spiritual
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    Entry Fees:

    Free Entry: There is no entry fee for visitors as of 2026.

    Photography Charges: Nominal or zero fees for mobile photography, but professional gear may need permission. ...
    Free Entry: There is no entry fee for visitors as of 2026.

    Photography Charges: Nominal or zero fees for mobile photography, but professional gear may need permission.
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    Timing:

    Regular Timings: Open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM daily.

    Ideal Visit Time: Early morning at 9:00 AM is best to see the carvings in soft light. ...
    Regular Timings: Open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM daily.

    Ideal Visit Time: Early morning at 9:00 AM is best to see the carvings in soft light.
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    Special Events:

    Maha Shivaratri: The most special event is Maha Shivaratri celebrated in February.

    Annual Pooja: Special rituals are held during the Kartika month with oil lamps. ...
    Maha Shivaratri: The most special event is Maha Shivaratri celebrated in February.

    Annual Pooja: Special rituals are held during the Kartika month with oil lamps.
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    Best Photo Spots:

    Outer Walls: The star-shaped corners provide dynamic lighting for photography.

    Ceiling Domes: The highly ornate Ashta-dikpala arrangement in the ceiling is a must-capture.

    The Sanctum Door: The door frame wi...
    Outer Walls: The star-shaped corners provide dynamic lighting for photography.

    Ceiling Domes: The highly ornate Ashta-dikpala arrangement in the ceiling is a must-capture.

    The Sanctum Door: The door frame with Dvarapalas offers a regal frame for shots.

Photo Gallery

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Darjeeling
Queen of Hills • Tea Gardens

Things To Do

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    Photography: Capture the star-shaped foundation and the intricate wall sculptures.

    Exploring Friezes: Spend time identifying the six distinct layers of carvings at the base.

    Spiritual Reflection: Meditate in the quiet Navaranga hall.

    Village Walk: Explore the rustic charm of Nagalapura village.

    Architectural Study: Observe the joinery of soapstone blocks without mortar.

    Birdwatching: The nearby trees host several local bird species.

    Nandi Visit: Offer prayers at the beautifully carved Nandi statue outside the sanctum. ...
    Photography: Capture the star-shaped foundation and the intricate wall sculptures.

    Exploring Friezes: Spend time identifying the six distinct layers of carvings at the base.

    Spiritual Reflection: Meditate in the quiet Navaranga hall.

    Village Walk: Explore the rustic charm of Nagalapura village.

    Architectural Study: Observe the joinery of soapstone blocks without mortar.

    Birdwatching: The nearby trees host several local bird species.

    Nandi Visit: Offer prayers at the beautifully carved Nandi statue outside the sanctum.

Resturants

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Information

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    Why Famous:

    Historical Significance: It is famous for being one of the most well-preserved examples of late Hoysala art.

    Artistic Brilliance: The temple is renowned for its Gajasura Vadhe sculpture and detailed friezes.

    Soa...
    Historical Significance: It is famous for being one of the most well-preserved examples of late Hoysala art.

    Artistic Brilliance: The temple is renowned for its Gajasura Vadhe sculpture and detailed friezes.

    Soapstone Mastery: The use of chloritic schist allowed for the microscopic detailing seen today.
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    Architecture:

    Architecture Style and Dimensions: The temple follows the Stellate or star-shaped plan, measuring approximately 60 feet by 40 feet. The platform or Jagati is about 3 feet high.

    Intricate Carvings: The outer walls feature six horizontal frie...
    Architecture Style and Dimensions: The temple follows the Stellate or star-shaped plan, measuring approximately 60 feet by 40 feet. The platform or Jagati is about 3 feet high.

    Intricate Carvings: The outer walls feature six horizontal friezes including elephants, horses, and lions.

    Lathe-Turned Pillars: The Navaranga contains four highly polished, lathe-turned pillars that support the ceiling.
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    How To Reach:

    By Air: Nearest airport is Bengaluru (BLR), 140 km away.

    By Train: Reach Tiptur or Tumkur station and take a taxi.

    By Road: Well-connected via NH75; take the turn at Tiptur or Turuvekere.

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    By Air: Nearest airport is Bengaluru (BLR), 140 km away.

    By Train: Reach Tiptur or Tumkur station and take a taxi.

    By Road: Well-connected via NH75; take the turn at Tiptur or Turuvekere.

    By Local Transport: Buses to Turuvekere are frequent, followed by an auto-rickshaw.
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    Weather and Best Time to Visit:

    Monsoon Season: July to September makes the surroundings lush green.

    Winter Season: October to February is the most comfortable for exploring.

    Time of Day: Morning hours are best for photography and avoiding...
    Monsoon Season: July to September makes the surroundings lush green.

    Winter Season: October to February is the most comfortable for exploring.

    Time of Day: Morning hours are best for photography and avoiding the midday heat.
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    Near Tourist Places:

    1. Chennakeshava Temple (0. 5 km), 2. Turuvekere (12 km), 3. Aralaguppe (30 km), 4. Huliyurdurga (45 km), 5. Yediyur (40 km), 6. Keregalapalya (15 km), 7. Sampige (25 km), 8. Mayasandra (20 km), 9. Amrutapura (55 km), 10. Kibbanahalli (35 km)

Tourism Tips

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    Health and Safety: Carry basic first aid; the village has limited medical facilities.

    Packing: Wear comfortable cotton clothes and walking shoes.

    Accommodation: Stay in Tumkur or Tiptur as village options a...
    Health and Safety: Carry basic first aid; the village has limited medical facilities.

    Packing: Wear comfortable cotton clothes and walking shoes.

    Accommodation: Stay in Tumkur or Tiptur as village options are scarce.

    Cash and Connectivity: Carry cash as ATMs are 12km away; mobile signal is decent.

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