Amruteshwar Temple – Annigeri – Karnataka

Amruteshwar / Amriteshwar temple is located in Annigeri, which is a town in Navalgund taluk of Dharwad district in the state of Karnataka.

Annigeri which is a birthplace of the famous Kannada poet ‘Adikavi Pampa’ was an important part of the western Chalukyan Empire. It served as the last capital of Kalyani Chalukyas for a short period as their main capital ‘Kalyani’ was seized by Kalachuryas. It was also part of the Hoysalas, Yadavas and Kalachuri domain. The historic town came into lime-light post finding of mysterious 600+ skulls (read the news at – The Hindu ).

The Amruteshwar Temple dates back to 1050 CE and was the primary temple made of soapstone. The temple presents good example of the Kalyani Chalukyas style of construction and Dravida articulation. The main deity in this temple is Lord Shiva. 76 pillars are supporting the roof of the temple with amazing carvings depicting various mythological images on its walls. Just like any other ancient Shiva temple, it got some Kama sutra carvings as well.

Amruteshwar Temple served as the prototype for later, more articulated structures, like Mahadeva Temple at Itagi. Based on the general plan of the Amruteshwar Temple, the Mahadeva Temple was built in 1112 CE and has the same architectural components as its predecessor.

 Read my trip to Amriteshwar Temple – Annigeri

How to Reach:

By Road – Gadag to Amruteshwar Temple Annigeri = 23 km / Hubli to Annigeri = 36 km / Buses available from all major cities to this Annigeri place.

Nearest Railway stations – Hubli and Gadag

Nearest Airports – Bellary and Kolhapur.