Chennakesava Temple

Belur was the capital of the Hoysala, between the eleventh and twelfth centuries. We went there after the promise of magnificent stone temples and were not disappointed. Chennakesahva Temple is a marvel, which is still in use. It was built in 1117 by King Vishnuvardhana, to celebrate several things: his conversion to Jainism (a branch Hindus who respect life to the point that they will not step on any ant, for example), victory over Chola troops, and the independence of the city of Chalukyas. The interior is dark, with stones worn by the passing of centuries and the pilgrims who come there to ask for blessings.