Somnathpur (Somnathpura) is a small town situated half a mile from the River Kaveri. The town is around 35 kms away from the city of Mysore.
Somnathpur is home to the popular Keshava temple built during the reign of the Hoysala emperors. The temple stands as a symbol of the great authority and skill of the Hoysala rulers. The sculpture and the idols of God and Goddesses speak volumes about the Hoysala kingdom. This temple has been recognised as a heritage site and is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Somnathpura – the magnet that attracts tourists
The best time to visit this place is from October to March. This place is of great significance to people with a taste for archaeological structures. It might be a small town, but the information provided by the historical structures here is of great importance, which is why this place is a major tourist attraction.
Places to visit in and around Somnathpur
There are many tourist spots that are worth visiting. The temples here are famous for their fine-looking carvings and engravings. The variety of sightseeing options available around this place is another reason tourists flock here in large numbers.
Chennakeshava Temple
This temple was built in 1268 A.D. by Somnath, who was a commander back then during the Hoysala’s reign. It is also called the Keshava temple. Somnathpur is mainly famous for this temple and its architectural design. Moreover, the Chennakeshava temple is a living example of the rich culture and heritage of the Hoysala rulers, as well as their power. Soapstone is used for its construction. The beauty of the temple is so enchanting that people from all over the world come here to catch a glimpse of it.
Moreover, the Chennakeshava temple is a living example of the rich culture and heritage of the Hoysala rulers, as well as their power. Soapstone is used for its construction. The beauty of the temple is so enchanting that people from all over the world come here to catch a glimpse of it.
Talakad Panchalinga Temple
The temple is a dedication to five forms of Lord Shiva. It is situated 15km away from the Chennakeshava Temple. This temple is famous for the Pathaleshwara Shivalinga, which changes colour. It turns red in the morning, changes to black in the afternoon, and to white in the evening.
Mysore
Mysore is 35 kms away from Somnathpura. Mysore is famous for its zoological gardens, historical monuments, and temples. The Mysore Fort and Palace are major tourist attractions. Almost everyone who visits Somnathpur travels via Mysore and therefore pays a quick visit to Mysore too.
Mudukuthore Mallikarjuna Temple
This temple is 26 kms away from Somnathpur. Lord Malikarjuna is worshipped here. Every year in January or February, a festival is celebrated that lasts a week, and the trading of cattle and other useful agricultural goods takes place.
Shivanasamudra is a village that possesses two waterfalls, namely Gaganachukki and Barachukki, which are both tributaries of the River Kaveri. These waterfalls are situated 27 km from Somnathpur. The lush green vegetation adds to the scenic beauty of this place.
How to reach Somnathpura
To give your eyes a delightful treat, visit Somnathpura. Here is how you can plan your visit to this beautiful place.
By air
Somnathpur does not have its own airport. The nearest airport is in Mysore, around 42km from the main location. After reaching there, further travel will be by bus or taxi.
By rail
There is no railway station in Somnathpur since it’s a small village. The nearest station is in Mysore, approximately 35km from Somnathpur. Mysore is well connected to other parts of India and easily reached. Taxis and buses are easily available from here to take you further to the destination.
By road
Both private and government buses are available and can easily take you to Somnathpur. For ease of purpose, one can come down to Mysore and then take a direct bus to Somnathpura from there. There are varied options available, but this is the most feasible one. KSRTC buses ply from Bangalore (139 kms) to the village every day.
