Ishvara Temple, Arasikere

Ishvara Temple is a Hindu shrine in Arasikere distinguished by its unusual sixteen-pointed star-shaped floor plan with an asymmetrical design. The shrine incorporates three different types of star points in its structural arrangement, creating a distinctive architectural form.

This shrine was built around 1220 CE during the Hoysala Empire period and displays construction methods reflecting the craftsmanship of medieval Indian artisans. The design and building techniques embody elements that define this historical period.

The temple honors Shiva and displays a Shiva linga in its inner sanctum alongside a carved image of Nandi, the sacred bull, in its vestibule. These religious symbols and artworks remain spiritually important to devotees who visit the site.

The shrine is located roughly 41 kilometers east of Hassan city and can be reached via regular bus services or private vehicles from major Karnataka cities. Visitors should prepare for local transportation options and plan accordingly for navigation.

The shrine departs from typical Hoysala styles and employs an unusual rotating circular floor plan with a distinctive star-shaped mantapa hall. This departure from established architectural conventions makes it an example of local building experimentation.