Why Should You Visit the Mukteswara temple, Haveri in Karnataka? (2024)

The Mukteswara temple, Haveri is located along the banks of the river Tungabhadra in Karnataka. It is a fine example of the Chalukya architecture. The temple has been built in the Jakanachari style of architecture. The Mukteswara temple is located about 40 kilometres from the town of Haveri, Karnataka. There are plenty of temples built in the same era in the district of Haveri but the Mukteswara Temple stands out for its amazingly detailed sculptures which have been wonderfully preserved after all these centuries. Built during the transition period from Kilimukha to Veerashaivam, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This is considered to be one of the best places to visit in Karnataka. Moreover being located on rolling plains and undulating topography, the place has a serene beauty of its own.

Why Should You Visit the Mukteswara Temple, Haveri?

The Mukteswara Temple has immense religious significance. The temple is located in the village of Choudayya Danapur, in the district of Haveri. The beautiful architecture depicted on the walls of the temple attracts tourists. The instructions on the walls give detailed information about the Chola Kings. The Mukteswara temple is a historically important site as it bears authentic information on the society’s religious practices during the eleventh and twelfth centuries. There are a number of other temples surrounding the Mukteshwara temple like the Siddheshwara Temple, Bankapura Peacock Sanctuary, Galaganatha temple and such others. This is one of the best tourist places to visit in Karnataka.

Image Source

Mukteshwara Temple Timings

1. Monday 7am to 7pm
2. Tuesday 7am to 7pm
3. Wednesday 7am to 7pm
4. Thursday 7am to 7pm
5. Friday 7am to 7pm
6. Saturday 7am to 7pm
7. Sunday 7am to 7pm

What Is The Best Way To Reach The Mukteswara temple?

Here is a route guide that you can follow while planning a trip to the Mukteswara temple, Haveri

By Road: The village of Choudayya Danapur is about 40 kilometres from the town of Haveri. After this you will have to cover another distance of 305.8 kilometres to reach the temple bus services are available in the district of Haveri which will take you to the Mukteswara Temple.

By Air: The closest airport is at Hubli. From Hubli it is a 2 hours 39 minutes drive to the Mukteswara temple.

By Train: By train the closest railway station is at Haveri – from there you will have to reach the temple by road.

Best Time To Visit The Mukteswara Temple

The Mukteshwara Temple, Haveri, can be visited during any time of the year. However, the summer months between March and June see the greatest number of tourists. This is mainly due to the climatic conditions of the place.

Image Source

Best Places To Stay At The Mukteswara Temple, Haveri

If you are looking for a place to stay then you can try out the Hotel Metropolis, Hotel Naveen, President Hotel Hubli – the details are given here

• Hotel Metropolis – Koppikar Road Kamaripeth, Near Nehru Stadium, Hubli-Dharwad 580020 India
• Hotel Naveen – Unkal Lake, Hubli-Dharwad 580025 India
• President Hotel Hubli – 194/1A, Opp. Unkal Lake Srinagara Cross, P.B. Road..Hubli, Hubli-Dharwad 580 031 India

Which Are The Different Places To See Near The Mukteswara Temple, Haveri?

The Siddeshwara Temple

The Siddeshwara temple is another example of the Chalukyan style of architecture. The historic remains of this temple are located in Haveri. The temple is composed of various structures which showcase the artistic talent of the people of that era as well as those in that region. The art seems to be a mix of Shaivite and the Vaishnavite culture. The presiding deity is Lord Shiva. The intricate Complex and luxurious carbons make it interesting to explore this Heritage site and it also attracts a large number of tourists from all over the country.

Image Source

Bankapura Peacock Sanctuary

The Sanctuary is a unique attraction of the Haveri district. Once upon a time it used to be a city ruled by many dynasties was like the Chalukyas Kadambas Rashtrakutas and so many others. The Sanctuary was previously the Bankapura Fort. This place is around 21 kilometres from the town of Haveri. This is one of the two peacock sanctuaries of the state of Karnataka. The sight of so many peacocks together attracts a lot of tourists.

Image Source

Hangal

This town is located around 40 kilometres from Haveri. This was once the stronghold of the Kadambas letter in time it was taken over by the Chalukyas. Today the town houses the architectural heritage of both these dynasties. The Tarkeshwar Temple, Veerabhadra Temple, Jain Temple and the Billeshwara Temple form the major attractions of this town. The Tarakeswar Temple has beautiful sculptures and carvings showing mythological tales especially the one depicted in Ramayana. This temple is a fusion of Dravidian and Nagara style of architecture and a place one must visit when they take a trip to Karnataka.

Image Source

Kaginele, Haveri

This was the birthplace of the Kannada Saint poet Kanika Dasa. It is located in Byadgi taluk of Haveri. The poet does what you of Lord Krishna and all his poems feature his views. You must visit this place when you come to Haveri.

Akki Alur

The village of Akki Alur gained a lot of reputation when a farmer found a pot of gold coins. These coins however, were not Indian but belong to the Roman Byzantine Empire. The serene village came across a lot of propaganda. The history behind the coins were never revealed.

Galageshwara Temple

The ancient Galageshwara temple is around 40 kilometres from the town of Haveri. This Ancient Temple houses the architecture of Western Chalukya and it is eleventh century architecture. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple has a huge unique pyramid shaped basement along with a large hall and the inner sanctum. The temple is an enchanting architecture of its period.

Image Source

If you are planning for weekend Getaway or a short vacation to Karnataka then the Mukteswara temple, Haveri must be in your itinerary. It will definitely take you on a walk back in history. Make sure that your visit is of the surrounding places as well to make your entire trip a memorable one.