About Chennakeshava Temple, Aralaguppe
Chennakeshava Temple at Aralaguppe is a 13th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Chennakeshava, a form of Vishnu, located in Aralaguppe village, Tiptur Taluk, Tumakuru District, Karnataka. Built around 1250 CE during the Hoysala period, it is noted for its soapstone architecture, star-shaped vimana, intricate carvings and lathe-turned pillars, and is protected as a monument of historical importance.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a compact, single-shrine Hoysala temple set in a quiet village environment. The temple features a star-shaped garbhagriha, pillared navaranga with lathe-turned pillars, intricately carved soapstone walls depicting deities, floral and geometric motifs, and a stepped shikhara. The surroundings are rural with open courtyard, small temple precinct and limited commercial development. Visitors can explore the exterior carvings, interior mandapa and sanctum housing the Chennakeshava idol.
Key highlights
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Hoysala-era temple built around 1250 CE with soapstone construction
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Star-shaped (stellate) vimana and intricately carved outer walls
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Lathe-turned pillars and ornate navaranga ceiling
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Presiding deity Chennakeshava (Vishnu) in black stone
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Protected monument showcasing late Hoysala architectural style
History of Chennakeshava Temple, Aralaguppe
The temple was constructed around 1250 CE during the reign of Hoysala King Vira Someshwara. It represents the later phase of Hoysala architecture built in soapstone, featuring a stellate plan, detailed friezes and sculptural work characteristic of the period. It is maintained as a protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Culture & Context
The temple is dedicated to Chennakeshava, a form of Lord Vishnu, and remains an active place of worship for the local community. It reflects Vaishnavite tradition and Hoysala temple art, serving as an important example of Karnataka's religious and architectural heritage.
Route
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