Many of Karnataka’s architectural splendors can be attributed to its temples. We have found yet another majestic grandeur dating back to the 13th century called Lakshmi Narasimha Temple. How about a virtual tour?
The Lakshmi Narasimha Temple was built in 1246 CE by Bommanna Dandanayaka, a commander in the Hoysala Empire under King Vira Someshwara. The temple is often represented as a good example of 13th century Hoysala architecture, and is located a short distance away from Nuggehalli, also called as Nuggihalli, which is a town in Hassan district of Karnataka.
During the time of commander Bommanna, the town embracing this gorgeous temple was called Vijaya Somanathapura, and was recognised as a place of learning, agrahara. The temple is built in a trikuta (three towers) vimana (shrine) style, and is termed as a ‘newer’ Hoysala style temple by the famous art critic Gerard Foekema. Though, one would assume that the temple is an ekakuta (single tower and shrine) which makes it a perfect example of a trikuta which looks like an ekakuta.
The visitor can find a few images of Lord Shiva in the form of Bhairava and Bhairavi. Nevertheless, the majority of the images are Vaishnava in faith. Venugopala, Keshava, and Lakshminarasimha are all depicted in the three shrines. The temple is a divine beauty, and the fact that it is from the mighty Hoysala Empire makes it a must visit spot for you and the fam. See you there!
Where: Nuggehalli, Hassan, Karnataka
Distance from Bangalore: 139.5 KM