Vishnu is one of the major deities in Hinduism and is worshipped across the globe. He is generally known as the protector of the world and forms the Hindu Trinity along with Lord Shiva and Lord Brahma. Being one of the oldest inhabited regions in the country, Karnataka is known for its rich culture and heritage.
Therefore, you can find several age-old and recently constructed temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu within its boundaries. So, if you are keen on learning about spiritualism and the importance of Lord Vishnu in Karnataka, following are the temples you must visit. Read on to know more about their location, history and religious prominence.
1) Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple, Melukote
Built atop a small rocky hill at a distance of about 50 km from Mysore, Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple is located at Melukote and is one of the most significant temples in the region. It is not only known for its religious importance but also for its architectural beauty. The temple boasts beautiful designs, intricate patterns and lovely carvings.
As per historical records, the temple is said to have been established between the 16th and 17th century. However, the legends of the temple being built by the Lord himself are also popular amongst locals.
2) Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangapatna
One of the most important pilgrimage sites amongst Vaishnavites along the Kaveri river, Ranganathaswamy Temple is located in the historic town of Srirangapatna and was built during the reign of the Western Ganga dynasty.
Today, the temple is still standing strong and allures thousands of Hindu devotees and tourists every year. Apart from savouring its pristine and divine aura, you can also indulge in exploring the commendable architecture of the temple. From stone carvings to beautiful designs, every corner deserves to be captured.
3) Chennakeshava Temple, Belur
One of the few Vishnu temples frequented by people of all castes, creeds and religions, Chennakeshava Temple is a 12th-century temple built during the rule of the Hoysala Empire. It is visited by people from all over the state.
The use of scenes and texts from the Mahabharata and the Ramayana over the walls and pillars is remarkable. If there is any Vishnu temple in Karnataka which no traveller can afford to miss, it is certainly Chennakeshava Temple at Belur, where you can literally feel the essence of divinity.
4) Vitthala Temple, Hampi
Another Vishnu temple in Karnataka which is more of an architectural beauty than a site of great religious importance, Vitthala Temple is one of the prominent attractions in Hampi.
The temple was built in the Dravidian style of architecture in the 15th century when the region was the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Today, it is mostly visited by history lovers, but it certainly harbours a serene and unearthly aura.
5) Ananthashayana Temple, Karkala
Located about 40 km from Udupi, Ananthashayana Temple was once a Jain basadi in the 15th century. Later, it was converted into a Vishnu temple after Sri Narasimha Bharati Swamiji, a great spiritual guru, visited the king and demanded a Lord Vishnu temple for his stay.
Today, the temple is under the care of the Archaeological Survey of India and is visited by hundreds of tourists from all over the district.
