Shiva Temple Dedicated to Queen Shantala Devi.
The Hoysaleshwara Temple actually consists of two twin temples of the same size with their sanctums opening east, facing sunrise. The sanctum of Hoysaleshwara (the King), and Shantaleshwara (the Queen, Shantala Devi), both have a Shiva linga. Outside, on the east both temples have a smaller shrine, each with a seated Nandi, facing the lingas. Further to the east of the southern Nandi is a 7 feet high Surya shrine facing the Nandi.
As you enter the temple complex from the northern gate, you are standing in front of the Shantaleshwara deity which is in the form of a Shiva linga. As you proceed further you can see a long covered passage, with various kinds of pillars and perforated screens on the right. This is the only temple where there is a passage between two kutas. The ceilings are filled with minute carvings and details. We then approach the Hoysaleshwara deity, the main deity, which is an impressive Shiva linga nicely decorated with jewels and ornaments and a dashing black drape.
There are many exquisite carvings and friezes on the platforms and walls of the main temples. The temple carvings and walls have been done with soapstone, which is soft when quarried, but hardens over time.
Photography is allowed inside the temples, but not of the shrines with the Shiva lingas kept in the sanctum sanctorums. Footwear has to be removed before entering the temple.
This heritage site of India is a must visit, along with the Kesava temple at Belur, about 17 km away, and Shravanabelagola, about 80 km towards Bangalore. There is a decent lodge run by the state owned KSTDC, appropriately named ‘Hotel Mayura Shantala’ to honour the queen, where we stayed. It is just across the road from the temple.
Show lessAs you enter the temple complex from the northern gate, you are standing in front of the Shantaleshwara deity which is in the form of a Shiva linga. As you proceed further you can see a long covered passage, with various kinds of pillars and perforated screens on the right. This is the only temple where there is a passage between two kutas. The ceilings are filled with minute carvings and details. We then approach the Hoysaleshwara deity, the main deity, which is an impressive Shiva linga nicely decorated with jewels and ornaments and a dashing black drape.
There are many exquisite carvings and friezes on the platforms and walls of the main temples. The temple carvings and walls have been done with soapstone, which is soft when quarried, but hardens over time.
Photography is allowed inside the temples, but not of the shrines with the Shiva lingas kept in the sanctum sanctorums. Footwear has to be removed before entering the temple.
This heritage site of India is a must visit, along with the Kesava temple at Belur, about 17 km away, and Shravanabelagola, about 80 km towards Bangalore. There is a decent lodge run by the state owned KSTDC, appropriately named ‘Hotel Mayura Shantala’ to honour the queen, where we stayed. It is just across the road from the temple.
Date of experience: December 2018
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