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Introduction
Karnataka is famous for its multitude of temples and religious destinations. The intricately sculpted Hoysala temples, the ancient Chola temples, and the temples of the Chalukyas, Gangas and Vijaynagar rulers aptly demonstrate the variation in temple architectural style across the state. The Temples in Karnataka have survived the rigors of time and continue to enamor tourists and pilgrims for centuries with their ethereal charm and magnificence.
Some of the ancient temples of Karnataka can be traced back to the 7th century AD. The various temple styles seen in Karnataka include the rock-cut cave temples built by the Badami Chalukyas, the Dravidian style temples seen at Pattadakal, the Vijaynagar temple architecture characterized by pillared ‘mandapas’ and lofty entrance towers and the Hoysala temples built on raised complex star-shaped platforms.
One of the most famous temples in Karnataka is the 16th century Bull Temple in Bangalore, dedicated to a sacred bull – Nandi, carved out of a single granite block. Other major temples in the state include the Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu – an exemplary specimen of Hoysala architecture and sculpture, the Mookambika Temple in Kollur - considered very rich in legend and tradition and the Balakrishna Temple at Udupi – one of the most frequented pilgrim destinations in Karnataka. Some other must-visit temples in Karnataka are the ancient Shiva Temple at Gokarna, the Gomateswara Temple at Sravanabelagola - housing the colossal monolithic statue of Gomateswara, the Bhoganandeeswara and Yoganandeeswara Temples located on the Nandi Hiils; the Belur Chennakesava Temple and the Kesava Temple at Somnathapura – both outstanding works of Hoysala architecture.
Srirangapattanam near Mysore, is home to the famous Ranganatha Temple and the Tirunarayana Temple at Melkote is a famous site of Sri Vaishnava tradition. The Chamundeswari Temple at Chamundi Hills and the ancient Chola temple at Talakkad near Mysore are also worth visit.
Aihole, referred as the cradle of Hindu rock architecture, has numerous temples scattered around the village. Most famous among these Chalukyan temples is the Durga temple. The ancient town of Badami was the capital of the early Chalukyas and the several 6th and 7th century temples found here are frequented by hordes of pilgrims. Pattadakal - the third in the triad of early Chalukyan sites, is also home to a number of magnificent temples.
Temples of Karnataka also features the Virupaksha temple and Vitthala temple at Vijayanagar (Hampi) – revered for their exquisite halls and pillars. The Shrikanteshwara temple at Nanjangud near Mysore and the Vidyashankara temple at Sringeri are also well-known religious sites.
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