Our fixation with the Hoysala architecture made us to include this small but significant temple as a pit-stop on our way to Chikkmagaluru. We were on GPS from Channarayapatna and promptly it lead us to a sleepy village. And on the left corner we could see a palm thatch canopy just in front of the temple entrance. The road from here leads to narrow alleys, so we reversed the vehicle and parked at the edge of the road. The ladies fetching water near the bore well told us to collect the key from a nearby house to enter the temple. As we informed our intention to visit the temple the caretaker immediately followed us and opened the door for us. We told her not to wait for us as we're going to take some time and will return the key once we are done. She nodded and left us.
Shri Channakeshava temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu (handsome Vishnu). Since this does not come under the ambit of Archaeology Survey of India (ASI) there is not much information available. One can easily say it is Hoysala temple by seeing the architecture. The time period could be between 1000 CE to 1300 CE as in this time frame Hoysala empire flourished to glory. The simple Ekakuta (single shrine) temple is east facing with huge veranda on either side. The stone columned porch also serves as the outer wall from all sides but for the entrance. The stone carved Kalasha on the Vimana Gopura is said to be the biggest and one of its kind. The lathe-turned pillars and ceilings are unique and intricate, typical to Hoysala architecture.
The temple has recently been restored by Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheswara (SDM) Trust in association with residents of Anekere. This time again we had the entire premises to ourselves. Sitting quietly on the gallery we watched clouds moving in the morning sky against the backdrop of this ancient edifice. We were about to head out then the caretaker lady came in for maintenance work. She told us only few people visit this place as it is neither popular nor big. We thanked her for her effort and time and headed off to further our journey.
Route: Bengaluru-Kunigal-Yadiyuru-Hirisave-Channarayanapattana-Anekere
Timings: Temple is closed mostly. The village people will direct you to the caretaker's house
Entry: Free
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