Araluguppe Chennakesava Temple

Araluguppe

Araluguppe: Where Heritage and Spirituality Meet!

Tucked away in the heart of Karnataka, India lies a small village called Araluguppe. With a population of just over 4,000 people, this quaint village is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, natural beauty, and interesting facts.Araluguppe can be easily reached by road, with Tumkur being the nearest major city. You can take a bus or hire a car from Tumkur to reach Araluguppe, which is located about 25km away. The nearest railway station is Tumkur railway station, which is around 24 km from Araluguppe.
History:
Araluguppe has a rich history that dates back to the Hoysala Empire, which ruled Karnataka during the 11th to 14th centuries. The village is home to several ancient temples that were built during this time, including the Chennakesava Temple, Veeranarayana Temple, and the Kalleswara Temple.
Chennakesava Temple:
The Chennakeshava Temple is a stunning example of Hoysala architecture and is one of the most popular temples in Araluguppe. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and was built in the 12th
century by the Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana. The temple complex consists of a main shrine, a mandapa, and a stepped well. The main shrine houses a beautiful idol of Lord Vishnu, which is flanked by his consorts, Sridevi and Bhudevi. The outer walls of the temple are adorned with intricate carvings, which depict various gods, goddesses, and mythical creatures. One of the unique features of the Chennakeshava Temple is the stepped well, which is located in the temple complex. The well consists of a series of steps, which were used for ritualistic purposes. It is said that the water in the well is sourced from an underground river, and is considered to be sacred. The temple is also known for its annual festival, which is held in the month of February. The festival, which is called the “Chennakeshava Brahmotsava,” is a grand affair and attracts thousands of devotees from across the region. During the festival, the temple is decorated with colourful lights, and several
cultural programs are organized. Overall, the Chennakeshava Temple is a must-visit destination in Araluguppe, and is a testament to the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Karnataka.
Culture:
Araluguppe is a melting pot of cultures, and is home to people from different communities and backgrounds. The village celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including Ugadi, Dasara, and
Deepavali. The village also has a rich tradition of folk music and dance, and several local artists perform at the temples and festivals.