Chennakeshava Temple, Belur

Belur, Karnataka

Also Known As:

Sri Channa Keshava Swamy

At the heart of Belur, Chennakeshava Temple offers a divine and uplifting ambience where devotees come together to seek blessings, peace, and guidance. This sacred shrine has been a beacon of faith for centuries, standing as a reminder of the community’s shared devotion and spiritual connection. From the moment one enters its premises, the calming chants, fragrant incense, and gentle temple bells create an atmosphere that soothes the soul. The temple is not only a place for prayer but also a centre for cultural gatherings, festivals, and traditional rituals that strengthen communal ties. Whether during quiet daily worship or grand celebrations, Chennakeshava Temple continues to touch hearts and minds, making it one of the most cherished spiritual destinations in Belur. It also proudly reflects the timeless traditions seen in many Ancient temples in Karnataka.

Chennakeshava Temple History and Significance

The Chennakeshava Temple, commissioned by King Vishnuvardhana in 1117 CE, is a testament to the Hoysala Empire's architectural prowess. Built over three generations, it took 103 years to complete. Despite being damaged during wars, it was repeatedly rebuilt. The temple is located in Belur, an early Hoysala capital, and remains a significant Vaishnava pilgrimage site.

Chennakeshava Temple Opening Time
Chennakeshava Temple Pooja Timing
Chennakeshava Temple Information Facilities and Accommodation
Chennakeshava Temple Transportation and Accessibility
Chennakeshava Temple Interesting Facts
Chennakeshava Temple Nearby Temples
Other Vishnu Temples
Famous Temples from around

Chennakeshava Temple Opening Time

Day	Timings
Monday	7:30 AM – 1:00 PM 1:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Tuesday	7:30 AM – 1:00 PM 1:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Wednesday	7:30 AM – 1:00 PM 1:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Thursday	7:30 AM – 1:00 PM 1:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Friday	7:30 AM – 1:00 PM 1:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Saturday	7:30 AM – 1:00 PM 1:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Sunday	7:30 AM – 1:00 PM 1:30 PM – 7:30 PM

Chennakeshava Temple Pooja Timing

Pooja Name	Timings
Morning Abhishekam	6:00 AM - 7:30 AM
Madhyana Pooja	12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Evening Aarti	6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Special Pooja (on request)	Customizable based on prior booking

Chennakeshava Temple Location Details

Chennakeshava Temple is located in Belur, Hassan, Karnataka. The temple is well connected by road, rail, and air, making it easily accessible for devotees and tourists. Below are the location details.

Address

KOTE ROAD, 573115

08177222218

How to Reach Chennakeshava Temple

By Road:

Belur is well-connected by road to major towns in Karnataka. State Transport Buses and private taxis operate regularly from cities like Bangalore, Mangalore, and Mysore.

By Train:

Nearest railway stations: Hassan Railway Station (approximately 40 km away). From this station, buses or taxis are available to Belur.

By Air:

Nearest airport: Mangalore International Airport (approximately 150 km away). From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Hassan, which is the closest town to Belur.

Chennakeshava Temple Nearby Temples

Best time to visit (season/months):

October to March. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall. Winters provide pleasant weather for exploring the temple and its intricate carvings.

Temple Facility

Drinking Water R.O.:

Drinking Water

Accommodation Facility:

ACCOMIDATION FACILITY

Other Vishnu Temples

Chennakeshava Temple Information Facilities and Accommodation

Subshrines Details

SRI CHANNA KESHAVA SWAMY:

Sri Sowmya Nayaki Ammanavaru Sri Ranganayaki Ammanavaru Kappechannigaraya Gudi Ramadevara Gudi Hanumadevara Gudi

Tank Information

GAJA GUNDA:

Float Festival will be performed in Vishnu Samudra

Sculpture Details

Garbhagruha:

The Chennakesava temple has three entrances and their doorways have decorated sculptures called dvarapalaka (doorkeepers)

Historical Information

Aagama:

- Vaikhanasa

Song Accepted:

- Pandiyaru

Vimana Type:

- NO

Sanctorum Shape:

- Square Shape

Century belongs to:

- 12th Century

King`s Period:

- Others

Heritage Temple:

- Yes

Verses:

- Panchatra

Legends Beliefs

Legends and BeliefsThe temple is dedicated to Chennakeshava, a form of Vishnu, and is revered in medieval Hindu texts. It is a major pilgrimage site for Vaishnavism, but also includes themes from Shaivism, Shaktism, Jainism, and Buddhism. The temple's artwork narrates Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, showcasing the cultural and theological diversity of 12th-century South India.
Deities and Sub Deities

Deities and Sub-DeitiesThe main deity of the temple is Vishnu, worshipped as Chennakeshava. The temple complex also houses shrines for other deities such as Venugopala, Chennigaraya, Lakshmi, Parvati, Saraswati, and others. The artwork includes depictions of Vishnu's avatars, Shiva, Brahma, and various goddesses, reflecting a blend of Vaishnavism, Shaivism, and Shaktism traditions.
Offerings

OfferingsDevotees offer prayers and perform rituals to the main deity, Chennakeshava. The temple is an active site of worship, where traditional offerings include flowers, fruits, and incense. Special ceremonies and rituals are conducted during festivals, attracting pilgrims from various regions.
Architecture

ArchitectureThe Chennakeshava Temple is a masterpiece of Hoysala architecture, known for its intricate sculptures, friezes, and iconography. The temple stands on a jagati platform, allowing circumambulation. Its exterior walls feature horizontal bands of carvings, depicting elephants, dancers, musicians, and scenes from Hindu epics. The temple's interior includes ornate pillars and a domed ceiling with detailed artwork.
Festivals

FestivalsThe temple hosts several important festivals, drawing devotees from across the region. These festivals celebrate various aspects of Vishnu and include traditional music, dance, and rituals. The temple's vibrant festivities reflect the rich cultural heritage of the Hoysala period and continue to be a focal point for community gatherings.
Religious Practices

Religious PracticesThe temple follows Vaishnava traditions, with daily rituals and prayers dedicated to Vishnu. Devotees engage in darshana, offering prayers and seeking blessings. The temple's religious practices are deeply rooted in the teachings of Ramanujacharya, reflecting the spiritual dedication of the Hoysala rulers to Sri Vaishnavism.

FAQ's

Where is the Chennakeshava Temple located?

The Chennakeshava Temple is located in Belur, Karnataka, India. Specifically, it is situated in the Hassan district.

Which God is Sri Channa Keshava Swamy?

Sri Channa Keshava Swamy is a major Hindu deity.

What is the best time to visit Chennakeshava Temple?

October to March. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall. Winters provide pleasant weather for exploring the temple and its intricate carvings.

How to reach Chennakeshava Temple from near City or Town?

Nearest railway stations: Hassan Railway Station (approximately 40 km away). From this station, buses or taxis are available to Belur. Nearest airport: Mangalore International Airport (approximately 150 km away). From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Hassan, which is the closest town to Belur.