Chennakeshava Temple, Aralaguppe

Chennakeshava Temple is a shrine built with a 16-pointed star-shaped base and two tiers of roof edges above it. Its surfaces are covered with carvings depicting birds, animals, and scenes from Hindu mythology throughout.

This shrine was built around 1250 CE during the reign of Hoysala King Vira Someshwara. It has been protected by the Archaeological Survey of India since its historical importance was recognized.

The walls display detailed carvings showing Hindu deities and scenes from sacred stories that worshippers have venerated here for centuries. These reliefs give a sense of the spiritual devotion this place has held for many generations.

This temple is located in a rural area and is best reached by vehicle, as it sits roughly 60 kilometers from Hassan city. The structure remains accessible for visits despite some missing original elements from its tower.

The shrine sits on a raised platform called a jagati, which lifts it above ground level and gives it a distinguished presence. This raised foundation approach was common in the temple architecture of this era and region.