Mallikarjuna Temple, Hirenallur, Karnataka

Mallikarjuna Temple, Hirenallur, Karnataka

Mallikarjuna Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Hirenallur Village in Kadur Taluk in Chikkamagaluru District, in the Indian state of Karnataka. This temple is considered as one of the lesser known Hoysala temples of Karnataka. The monument is protected by the Karnataka state division of Archaeological Survey of India. 

History

The temple is believed to have been built by the Gangas during the 8^th century CE as per an inscription recently found here. Later, the temple was extensively renovated by Hoysala king Ballala II during the end of 12^th century CE. He might have added two shrines and converted the Ekakuta Shrine to Trikuta Shrine. The monument which was in a state of dis-repair was renovated around 2004 by the Sri Dharmasthala Manjunathaeshwara Dharmothana Trust, with assistance of the Department of Culture, Government of India.

The Temple

The temple is facing towards east. The temple consists of Sanctum, Sukhanasi, Navaranga and Mukha Mandapa. The temple is constructed in trikutachala style, consisting of three sanctums, one each on north, south and west. The central shrine enshrines the presiding deity, Mallikarjuna in the form of Shiva Linga. The other two shrines are situated on Navaranga and enshrines Keshava and Surya. All the three shrines are crowned with shikaras. Sculptures of Ganesha and Sapta Matrikas can be seen in the Navaranga.

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 14 Kms from Birur, 14 Kms from Birur Bus Stand, 15 Kms from Birur Junction Railway Station, 16 Kms from Kadur Junction Railway Station, 17 Kms from Kadur, 35 Kms from Hosadurga, 39 Kms from Banavara, 57 Kms from Chikkamagaluru, 242 Kms from Bengaluru and 261 Kms from Bengaluru Airport. The Temple is situated on Kadur to Hosadurga route.

Location