January 21, 2012
Haralahalli, also known as Haralalli is a village on the banks of river Tungabhadra in Haveri district. Haralahalli's Someswaragudi is another fine example of Chalukyan architecture. This ancient temple is surrounded by agricultural plots and remains hidden. The temple can be easily missed even though it is quite close to the state highway connecting Guttal and Harapanahalli.
Somesvaragudi is a Trikutachala a temple with three Shikharas.
The temple caretaker was present here. He's done a good job of maintaining the temple premises neat and tidy. Rear portion of the temple has evidence of repair work. However there's no information board.
The
Mukha-mandapa has a
Sukhanasi.
One of the Shikharas.
A human body and a horse's head- that must be Hayagriva, the god of knowledge and wisdom. Hayagriva is considered an Avatar of Vishnu.
This must be Boovaraha, another Avatar of Vishnu.
This couple must be Rama and Sita.
A voluptuous woman.
Stunning work of art.
Women in dancing postures.
A row of temple Shikharas.Floral and mystical creatures adorn the frame around the Shikharas.
A closer look at the sculpture. Couples engaged in love-making.
The Mahadwara.
An array of circular geometric patterns on the Mukha-mandapa ceiling.
An inscription on the Sukhanasi backrest. Image of a princess or a queen riding an elephant followed by a a royal attendant holding an umbrella. Behind the attendant is an ox.
Remains of a smaller temple.
Our next destination: Galaganatha, also on the banks of river Tungabhadra..
Somesvara temple coordinates: 14°50'7"N 75°40'27"E
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