Nestled in the serene village of Belavadi in the Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka, the Sri Veera Narayana Temple stands as a living testimony to the artistic brilliance of the Hoysala dynasty. Built in the classic Trikuta style, this majestic temple features three sanctums dedicated to Lord Veera Narayana, Gopala Krishna, and Yoga Narasimha—three divine forms of Lord Vishnu. The temple, radiating divine peace and intricate craftsmanship, is protected and maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
What sets this temple apart is its 103-feet wide ranga-mandapa, elaborately sculpted pillars, and jewel-like Vesara shikharas. On the summer solstice (March 23), the first rays of the sun travel 270 feet to light up the sanctum—a stunning architectural feat that leaves devotees in awe.
Traditional pujas and rituals are performed with devotion by hereditary priests. Visitors often experience calm darshan and insightful guidance from the temple priest.
Sri Veera Narayana Temple of Belavadi is not just an architectural gem but a sacred pilgrimage that blends history, legend, and devotion. As the morning sun sanctifies the garbhagriha and the pillars whisper tales of divine lore, every step taken within this temple becomes a spiritual journey across centuries.
The Sri Veera Narayana Temple is revered not only for its architectural glory but also for its deep spiritual significance in the Vaishnavite tradition. It is believed that Bhima, one of the Pandava brothers, slew the demon Bakasura in this very village, saving the people of Belavadi—a legend that ties this temple to the epic Mahabharata.
This temple is an important spiritual and cultural landmark of Karnataka and forms part of the heritage triangle along with Belur and Halebidu. The three shrines within the temple represent three divine energies of Lord Vishnu, making it a rare Trikuta Vaishnava temple of its kind.
Constructed around 1200 CE by the Hoysala King Veera Ballala II, the temple has withstood the test of time and historical upheavals. Though it faced damage in the 14th century, successive rulers added protective features and continued its legacy.
Once known as Ekachakrapura, Belavadi is steeped in mythological heritage and temple lore. The site is mentioned in the Mahabharata, and oral traditions of the village carry forward the legacy of the Pandavas’ stay here during their exile.
The temple’s lathe-turned, polished pillars, star-shaped platform (stellate plan), and intricately carved ceilings reflecting scenes from Krishna Leela are remarkable representations of Hoysala temple architecture.
8:30 AM – 6:00 PM daily
By Road :
Distance from Chikkamagaluru: 29 km
Distance from Halebeedu: 13 km
Distance from Belur: 29 km
By Rail:
Chikkamagalur
Hassan
By Air:
Mysuru is the nearest airport
Chikkamagaluru
Halebeedu
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