Kirti Narayana Temple

Kirti Narayana Temple is a 12th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu located in Talakad (Talakadu) on the banks of the Kaveri River in Mysuru District, Karnataka. Built in 1117 CE by Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana to commemorate his victory over the Cholas, it is noted for its Hoysala architecture, intricately carved pillars, star-shaped vimana and sculpted idols. It is a key pilgrimage site within the Talakad temple cluster and a protected monument.

Visitors can expect a historic stone temple complex set amid the sand dunes of Talakad near the Kaveri River. The temple features Hoysala-style architecture with carved pillars, ornate doorways, a garbhagriha housing the idol of Keertinarayana (Vishnu), and an open courtyard. The surroundings are quiet and semi-arid with other ancient temples nearby. Visitors can explore the main shrine, view detailed stone sculptures, and observe ongoing worship activities.

Built in 1117 CE by Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana to commemorate his victory over the Cholas at Talakad. It is one of the earliest Hoysala temples and exemplifies early Hoysala architecture. The temple was later buried under sand dunes and subsequently excavated and restored, and is now protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.

Dedicated to Lord Vishnu as Keertinarayana, the temple is a revered Vaishnavite pilgrimage site. It is part of the sacred Talakad temple group on the Kaveri River, associated with the Panchalinga Darshana festival held once every few years, and represents the religious and artistic traditions of the Hoysala period.