About Chennakeshava Temple Belur
The Chennakeshava Temple in Belur, Hassan district, Karnataka, is a 12th-century temple to Lord Vishnu as Chennakeshava, meaning the handsome Keshava. Standing on the banks of the Yagachi river, it is one of the finest examples of Hoysala architecture. In 2023 it was inscribed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas'. It is still an active temple, and devotees and art lovers alike come to admire its astonishingly detailed carvings.
The temple was commissioned in 1117 CE by the Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana, traditionally said to celebrate a military victory. It is often said that the work continued over about 103 years, across three generations. Belur was an early Hoysala capital, and the temple was damaged during later invasions but restored by later rulers, including the Vijayanagara kings. Worship has continued here for centuries. Inscriptions at the site record the temple's history and the patronage of the Hoysala rulers and their queens.
The temple stands on a star-shaped platform and is carved from soft soapstone, which allowed incredibly fine detail. Its outer walls show friezes of elephants, scenes from the epics and many gods. The 42 bracket figures known as madanikas include the famous Darpana Sundari, a lady with a mirror. Inside, the lathe-turned pillars include the elaborate Narasimha pillar.
Chennakeshava Temple Belur timings & aarti
Usually open about 7:30 AM – 7:30 PM, with darshan closed for a short period around midday. Times may vary; check locally before visiting.
| Aarti / ritual | Time |
|---|---|
| Morning Puja | Early morning |
| Midday Puja | Around noon |
| Evening Puja | Around sunset |
Timings change on festivals, eclipses and special days. Please confirm locally before you travel.
How to reach Chennakeshava Temple Belur
By air
Mangaluru International Airport, about 150 km away; Bengaluru airport is about 220 km away.
By train
Hassan Junction is about 38 km away.
By road
Regular buses run from Hassan, Chikkamagaluru and Bengaluru to Belur.
Festivals at Chennakeshava Temple Belur
- Chennakeshava Rathotsava (car festival)Mar/Apr
- Vaikuntha EkadashiDec/Jan
- DiwaliOct/Nov
Visitor tips
- Dress code
- Modest traditional clothing recommended.
- Entry
- Open to all; there is generally no entry fee. Licensed guides are available at the entrance.
- Hire a local guide to find the Darpana Sundari and other famous carvings.
- Visit Halebidu on the same day, as it is only about 16 km away.
- Carry a small torch to see details inside the dim hall.
- Remove footwear before entering the temple courtyard.
Places to visit near Chennakeshava Temple Belur
- Hoysaleswara Temple, HalebiduAnother great Hoysala temple, about 16 km away
- Yagachi DamReservoir with water sports, about 3 km away
- ChikkamagaluruCoffee country and hill views, about 25 km away
- ShravanabelagolaGiant Gommateshwara statue, about 85 km away
Frequently asked questions
What are the Belur Chennakeshava Temple timings?
It is usually open from about 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM. Check locally for current timings.
Is there an entry fee at Belur temple?
Generally no. Entry to the temple is free, though guides charge for their services.
Who built the Chennakeshava Temple at Belur?
Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana commissioned it in 1117 CE.
What is Darpana Sundari?
Darpana Sundari, the lady with a mirror, is one of the famous bracket figures carved on the temple.
How far is Halebidu from Belur?
Halebidu is about 16 km from Belur.
What is the aarti time at Chennakeshava Temple Belur?
Morning Puja: Early morning; Midday Puja: Around noon; Evening Puja: Around sunset. Times can change on festivals and special days, so please confirm locally before you go.
Is there a dress code at Chennakeshava Temple Belur?
Modest traditional clothing recommended.
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