Temple

The Kaitabheshvara temple (also spelt Kaitabhesvara or Kaitabheshwara, known also as Kotisvara) is located in the town of Kubatur (also spelt Kubattur or Kuppattur, and called Kuntalanagara or Kotipura in ancient inscriptions), near Anavatti in the Shimoga district of Karnataka state, India. The temple was constructed during the reign of Hoysala King Vinayaditya around 1100 AD.

Architecture

The temple has a single square shaped shrine with an east-west orientation, a vestibule that connects the sanctum to the main large open hall that has a staggered square plan and can be entered from five sides; two lateral and one each in the north, south and east. The walls of the shrine and vestibule stand on a base that is composed of five moldings. The super structure over the sanctum is four-tiered (chatustala arpita). It is crowned by a large domed roof that looks like a "helmet"(amalaka). Atop the dome is a beautiful kalasha that forms the pinnacle of the tower. The open mantapa is large and its ceiling is supported by massive lathe-turned circular pillars. The sculptural motifs and friezes, the decorative articulation and the design of pillars in this temple are those commonly found in other Western Chalukyan temples. The sculptures of Mahishamardini, Bhairava and Ganesha can be found on the main tower.

Picture courtesy: commons.wikimedia.org

Darsan Info

Temple timings : 6:00 AM To 5:30 PM

Darsan Dresscode

Clean and conservative clothing is preferred (avoid shorts, skirts).

Culture

Shimoga is the place considered to be the heart of Karnataka,especially the culture and heritage of the place clearly visible in chalukya's architecture style of temples in the area. Shimoga is also called the cultural capital of Karnataka and even known as rice bowl of Karnataka. The religious and tradional culture etire of the place can be visible to all in all the Hindu festivals.

Additional Info