Credit: Rajarama. Maiya
About Papanatha Temple
Built on the banks of the Malaprabha River, Papanatha Temple is a beautiful structure located inside the temple complex of Pattadakal. The temple is dedicated to Muketwara, who is a form of Lord Shiva.
Construction of the temple dates back to 680 AD, which consists of a mix of Nagara and Dravidian architecture. Mukhamandapa, Rangamandapa, and Antaral are built in the form of Dravidina style, while Vimana on top is built in Nagara style.
A circumbultoary path revolves around the sanctum, whose walls are beautifully carved with sculptures of dancing shiva. Sabhamandapa, standing on 16 pillars, is beautifully decorated with sculptures of men and women. Whereas Mukhamanda has caving of mythical animals.
The temple is famous for carving from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Ravana lifting Mount Kaisha, Vanars building bridge to Sri Lanka, Arjuna’s penance, and Dasaratha performing Putrakamesthti yaga.
How To Reach Papanatha Temple
700 meters from Pattadakal Bus Stand & Temple Complex entrance