About the Temple

A breathtaking 16th-century architectural marvel built during the Vijayanagara empire by brothers Virupanna and Veeranna, the Lepakshi temple is a masterclass in monolithic sculpture and intricate fresco paintings. Dedicated to Veerabhadra (an avatar of Lord Shiva), the complex is globally celebrated for its engineering enigma: the famous hanging pillar that barely touches the ground, alongside a colossal monolithic Nandi carved from a single granite block. The temple walls serve as an open book of epic narratives, depicting rich mythological stories in vibrant natural pigments.