Chenna Kesava Temple, Sompalle, Andhra Pradesh

Chenna Kesava Temple, Sompalle, Andhra Pradesh

Chenna Kesava Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located at Sompalle village in Chittoor district in Andhra Pradesh, India. This temple was built by a local chieftain of the later Cholas and considerably improved by Vijayanagara kings during early 16^th century CE. The temple has been classified as a Monument of National Importance by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

The Temple

This temple is facing towards east with three tiered Rajagopuram. Only two tiers exist now. Dhwaja Sthambam and Deepa Sthambam can be found before Rajagopuram, facing the sanctum. Dhwaja Sthambam is about 52 feet high monolithic pillar on a high base with intricate carvings throughout. There is a ruined pillared Mandapa to the left of the Rajagopuram. Balipitha and Garuda Shrine can be found immediately after the Rajagopuram.

The Sanctum Sanctorum consists of Sanctum, Maha Mandapa and Mukha Mandapa. Kalyana Mandapa can be found in front of the Sanctum in Maha Mandapa. It consists of four columns raised on a platform decorated with friezes. The columns are richly carved with miniature figures, animals and scrollwork. It is dvitala temple, the second tala in brick having koshta, panjara and sala. It has a cornice with slight projections in the central part.

Specimens of mural art depicting scenes of Ramayana can be seen on the ceilings of the Maha Mandapa and Mukha Mandapa. The temple is noted for its monolithic pillars, a perfect example of Vijayanagara workmanship. The columns, the brackets and the doorways are carved with miniature figures, animals and scrollwork. The stone car with four granite wheels, Uyyala mandapa, and small mandapa with tall pillars are notable features of this temple.

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 300 meters from Sompalle Bus Stop, 8 Kms from Mulakala Cheruvu Railway Station, 20 Kms from Thamballapalle, 40 Kms from Horsley Hills and 47 km from Madanapalle, 133 Kms from Bengaluru Airport, 143 Kms from Bengaluru and 148 Kms from Tirupati. The Temple is situated on Mulakala Cheruvu to Thamballapalle route. Devotees can reach Sompalle from Horsley Hills or Madanapalle by taking Kadiri bound bus and get down at Mulakala Cheruvu. Sompalle can be reached by bus, auto or shared taxis.

Location | Photos