Keladi Temples

posted in: Asia, India, Karnataka | 2
3rd October 2008


Keladi is a village 7 km from Sagar in the Shimoga district of Karnataka. Keladi was the capital of Keladi Nayakas, who ruled the areas around Shimoga for nearly two and a half centuries.


Choudappa Nayaka, who was the first ruler of the Keladi kingdom, constructed these Temples. Keladi kings started to rule as a feudatory of the Vijayanagar Empire in 1499 AD. Later, when Vijayanagar Empire fell during the battle of Talikota in 1565 AD, Keladi kings gained independence.

Prominent rulers of this Kingdom were Hiriya Venkatappa Nayaka, Shivappa Nayaka and Keladi Chennamma. Their rule ended in 1763 AD when Hyder Ali defeated Keladi. Their Kingdom was merged with Mysore.


The Temple complex looks like a big house from the outside. Once you enter inside, you will appreciate the beauty of the stone carvings. The Temple is built in Hoysala, Dravida, Kadamba and Vijayanagar style. The Temple complex consists of 3 Temples – Rameshwara, Veerabhadreshwara and Parvathi Temples. Overall, Temple is popularly known as Rameshwara Temple.
Gandu berunda (Bird with two heads)
How to reach Keladi

From the BH road bus stop at Sagar, take the road towards Soraba. Shortly after crossing a railway line, drive on the road towards the left that takes to Keladi. Travel for 7 km to reach Keladi. The Temple complex is on the right side of the road.

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