Image Source: Shivakumar Shamasundar
About Marle Temples
Located in Marle village, between Chikmagalur and Belur, the twin Keshava and Siddeshwara Temples stand as lesser-known yet remarkable examples of Hoysala architecture. Here’s what makes these temples captivating:
A remarkable example of Hoysala architecture, the twin Keshava and Siddeshwara temples are located in Marle village. Both temples exhibit exquisite carvings, sculptures, and motifs.
Keshava Temple
Housing a beautiful sculpted idol of Lord Keshava( a form of Vishnu), the temple was built in the 12th century under the rule of the Hoysala empire. It is designed in a Hoysala star-shaped structure with intricately carved walls depicting stories from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Bhagavata Purana. The temple’s pillars feature exquisite carvings of celestial beings, floral patterns, and mythological creatures.
The temple is a classical example of Dravidian style with a distinctive mandapa (hall) and sanctum sanctorum.
Siddeshwara Temple
Mirroring the Keshava temple’s appearance, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Inside the temple, there are various sculptures of various deities like Subrahmanya, Ganesha, and Mahishamardini. A separate lintel panel depicts Ganesha, Lord Shiva, Parvathi, and Subrahmanya.
Emphasising Hoysala devotion to both Shaivism and Vaishnavism, the temple was constructed in the same period as the Keshava temple. It follow a simple layout as compared to the grand Keshava temple with a single sanctum and a Nandi mandapa. Dedicated to Lord shiva, the temple houses a revered Shiva Linga, a focal point of worship for devotees.
The temple follow a spiritual ambinace rather than elaborate information.
Stone Edicts
There are two huge stone edicts on a pedestal that are positioned between the shrines. It provides information on the construction and consecration of the temple.
Timings
The temple is open to visitors from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Marle temple is between October and March when the weather is pleasant. In the monsoon season (June to September), the area changes into lush green.
Things to Do Nearby
Visit Chikkamagaluru: The district is famous for coffee plantations and breathtaking landscapes.
Mullayanagiri Peak: Its Karnataka’s highest peak situated in the Western Ghats.
Hirekolale Lake: It’s a famous lake for retreat, relaxation and photography.
How To Reach
By Road: Marle is well-connected by road, and visitors can hire cabs or take local buses from Chikkamagaluru, which is about 12 km away.
By Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (around 170 km away).
By Train: The nearest railway station is Kadur Railway Station, which is located 40 km away.
Lesser-Known Facts About Marle Temples
Image Source: Shivakumar Shamasundar
- Some of the inscriptions and carvings on the temple are still undeciphered, hinting at a lot of mysteries about the temple.
- The temple is designed in such a way that sunlight falls precisely on the deity during specific times of the year. It showcases the advancement of astronomical knowledge of that time period.
- Unlike many other Hoysala temples, the Marle temples depict beautiful depictions of Vishnu’s Dashavatara. The use of special chiselling techniques speaks volumes about the potential of the Hoysala artisans.
- The intricate detailing seen in these temples suggests the use of special chiseling techniques that were unique to the Hoysala artisans.
Maps and Location of Marle Temples
- Q: Where are the Keshava and Siddheshwara Temples located?
They are located in Marle village near Chikkamagaluru town, Karnataka.
- Q: Which deities are worshipped at Marle temples?
The Keshava Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, while the Siddheshwara Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Q: Which dynasty built these temples?
The temples were built during the Hoysala dynasty in the 12th century CE.
- Q: What architectural style do the temples represent?
They represent Hoysala Vesara architecture, known for refined stonework and balanced proportions.
- Q: Are both temples active places of worship?
Yes, both temples are still active and used for regular worship.
- Q: Why are these temples important historically?
They illustrate the religious coexistence of Vaishnavism and Shaivism in medieval Karnataka.
- Q: What festivals are celebrated here?
Festivals such as Vaikuntha Ekadashi, Krishna Janmashtami, and Maha Shivaratri are observed.
- Q: How far is Marle from Chikkamagaluru?
Marle is approximately 6 kilometers from Chikkamagaluru town.
- Q: What makes Marle temples unique?
Their twin-temple layout, rural setting, and Hoysala craftsmanship make them unique.