Lakshminarayana Temple, Hosaholalu

The Lakshminarayana Temple in Mandya district features three shrines arranged around a central tower, with the entire structure carved from soapstone and built on a star-shaped platform. Intricate stone carvings cover the walls, and the design demonstrates careful attention to proportions and decorative detail.

King Vira Someshwara of the Hoysala dynasty commissioned this temple in the 13th century during a period when the region was actively building grand stone structures. The construction reflects the architectural practices of the Hoysala period, which became less common after this era.

The temple walls display detailed stone panels showing scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, along with images of gods and dancers carved in relief. These carvings tell ancient stories and show how art and faith were deeply connected in this place.

The temple sits roughly 55 kilometers from Mysore and about 70 kilometers from Hassan, and is open daily without entrance fees. The best time to visit is during cooler months when weather is more comfortable and stone carvings are easier to observe in natural light.

The navaranga hall contains four polished stone pillars turned on a lathe that create nine equal sections, each with its own ceiling decorations and carved dancing figures. This specific arrangement of pillars is uncommon for the period and creates an unusual spatial division rarely seen in similar temples.