Chennakeshava Temple, Marle

The Chennakeshava Temple at Marle is a 12th-century Hoysala-era Hindu temple located in Marle village, Chikkamagaluru district, Karnataka. Dedicated to Chennakeshava, a form of Lord Vishnu, it is noted for its classic Hoysala architecture in soapstone, including a star-shaped vimana, intricate carvings, and lathe-turned pillars. Maintained as a protected heritage structure, the temple reflects the artistic and religious traditions of the Hoysala period and remains an active place of worship and sightseeing.

Visitors can expect a compact, historic Hoysala temple set in a quiet rural village environment near Chikkamagaluru. The temple features a star-shaped (stellate) plan, soapstone construction, ornate outer walls with detailed sculptures, lathe-turned pillars and a sanctum enshrining Chennakeshava. The complex is open for darshan and sightseeing, with a peaceful courtyard and traditional temple architecture to explore.

Built in the 12th century CE during the Hoysala Empire, the temple is an example of Hoysala temple architecture. Constructed in soapstone, it exhibits characteristic features such as a stellate vimana, intricate friezes and lathe-turned pillars, representing the artistic development under Hoysala rulers.

The temple is dedicated to Chennakeshava, a form of Vishnu, and remains an active Hindu place of worship. It reflects Vaishnavite traditions and the cultural heritage of the Hoysala period in the Malnad region of Karnataka.