Lakshmi Devi Temple

Lakshmi Devi Temple in Hassan district consists of a complex with four primary sanctuaries arranged around a central hall, each oriented toward a cardinal direction. The entire ensemble comprises nine structures with pyramidal towers in the Nagara architectural style.

A wealthy merchant named Kullahana Rahuta and his wife Sahaj Devi commissioned the temple's construction in 1113 during King Vishnuvardhana's reign. Its architectural design reflects influences from Maharashtra and northern India that traveled through trade routes of that period.

The temple brings together deities from both Shaivism and Vaishnavism traditions, including Lakshmi, Kali, and Shiva, creating a space where different faiths meet. Visitors can observe how these different divine forms are honored together within the same sacred grounds.

The temple sits roughly 20 kilometers northwest of Hassan city and is most easily reached by private transportation. The grounds are open to visitors from sunrise until sunset.

The temple shows an unusual blend of faith traditions, with followers of both Vaishnavism and Shaivism worshipping at the same site together. This kind of religious cooperation was uncommon in medieval South India and gives the place special significance.