Belur

Building of Channekeshava Temple at Belur began 1116 and continued for over a century. Still in daily use. Beautifully detailed soapstone carvings.

Seven-storey gopuram (entrance) Wandering around Belur Intensely bright sunlight takes away from the details Carvings tell the story of the Hoysalas Hoysalas ruled between 11th and 13th centuries Carving of Nandi (Bull) Hindu Deity Intricately carved soapstone Carved dieties guard lingam Internal pillars - no two are alike More carvings Every diety is supposedly represented History now learned through carvings \ Chewing snack - They put the whole thing in their mouth and chew on it