Veeranarayana Temple, Gadag, 12th-century Hindu temple in Gadag, India
The Veeranarayana Temple in Gadag is a shrine constructed from black stone with intricate carvings that blend Dravidian and Nagara architectural styles. Its design showcases the craftsmanship of the era through detailed reliefs and ornamental work throughout the structure.
The temple was built around 1117 CE under Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana, who converted from Jainism to Hinduism. This shift in religious allegiance marked an important turning point for the kingdom and the region.
The temple serves as an active place of worship where visitors encounter daily rituals and ceremonies dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The rhythms of prayer and celebration here connect local devotees to generations of spiritual practice.
The temple is located in central Gadag and is accessible on foot or by local transport. Mornings offer the most comfortable visiting conditions with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
A specific pillar within the temple is said to be where poet Kumar Vyasa received divine inspiration to compose the Kannada version of the Mahabharata. This connection between the sacred space and literary creation remains a notable aspect of the site.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.