Chennakeshava Temple

Vishnuvardhana, the Hoysala king commissioned the Chennakesava temple in 1117 CE. Researchers have established that the temple was built as a symbol of victory of King Vishnuvardhana. The King emerged victorious against the Western Chalukya Empire. There is another story which says that King Vishnuvardhana achieved victory against the Cholas in the Talakad battle. This is how Gangavadi was conquered by the Hoysalas. As per historians, the temple celebrates Vishnuwardhana’s conversion from Jainism to Vaishnavism.

Many artisans and skilled architects were employed to build the temple. There are about 108 inscriptions in Kannada in the temple complex. The Chennakesava temple has a big and open hall, a huge platform and a shrine which clearly reflects the Hoysala architectural style.