Viator Rating : 5 (79 reviews)
Bangalore
Somnathpur & Talakadu: Heritage, Sculptures & Mystery!
540
Overview
Explore the wonders of South India with the World Heritage Somnathpur Sculptures and Talakadu Temple Mystery tour! This full-day adventure takes you to two amazing places filled with history and beauty.
First, you'll visit the Chennakesava Temple at Somnathpur. This temple was built a long time ago, in the 13th century. It has beautiful sculptures that show what life was like back then. Next, the tour goes to Talakadu, a town with a mysterious secret. Here, one can see the Vaidyanatheswara temple, which dates back to the 14th century. People say that a queen put a curse on this town, and now it's covered in sand dunes. The tour includes a private car and a guide who will tell you all about the history and stories behind these places. Expect a day full of wonder as you take in all the historical sites!
The tour includes pickup and drop-off, a private guide, and a tasty South Indian lunch. Please note that drinks, tips, and any food you order besides lunch are not included. Get ready to use all five of your senses as you discover the beauty and mystery of Somnathpur and Talakadu! 
Highlights
Discover Ancient Temples: See the amazing Chennakesava Temple and Vaidyanatheswara Temple.
Unravel Local Mysteries: Learn about the Queen's curse and the mystery of Talakadu's sand dunes.
Enjoy a Private Tour: Travel comfortably in a private car with a personal guide.
Savor South Indian Flavors: Taste a delicious and authentic South Indian lunch.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved the knowledgeable guides who shared interesting stories.
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Many people enjoyed the comfortable and convenient private car service.
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Visitors highlighted the amazing architecture and historical significance of the temples.
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Families found the tour to be a great way to learn about the local culture.
Some visitors wished for more time at each location.
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A few people found the lunch options limited.
The Journey
Chennakesava Temple, Somnathpur
Discover the Chennakesava Temple in Somnathpur, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a jewel of Hoysala architecture, built in 1268 by a general of King Narasimha III. Marvel at the temple's intricate carvings, showcasing scenes from the epics, and admire the three shrines with their distinct peaks. Spend time appreciating the unique ceilings, each representing a stage of a blooming banana flower, and the deities adorned with exquisite jewellery, bangles, and crowns. This temple offers a glimpse into the artistic and religious fervor of the Hoysala Empire.
Keertinarayana Temple
Visit the Keertinarayana Temple, a stunning example of Hoysala architecture built with black granite and bricks. Constructed to commemorate King Vishnuvardhan's victory over the Cholas, this temple is famed for its imposing 2-meter tall idol of the deity. Experience the architectural prowess and historical significance of this temple, offering a unique perspective on the Hoysala dynasty's military triumphs and artistic achievements.
Talakadu Temples
Unearth the mysteries of Talakadu, a town shrouded in legend and buried beneath sand dunes. Explore the excavated Vaidyanatheswara temple, a 14th-century granite structure built by the Chola Kings and dedicated to Lord Shiva. Witness the unique phenomenon at Pataleshwara Shiva temple, where the Lingam is believed to change colors throughout the day – from red to black to white. Delve into the intriguing history and the legendary Queen's curse that transformed this once-flourishing town of over 30 temples into a landscape of sand and ancient secrets.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes convenient pickup and drop-off services. A private guide will accompany you throughout the day. Enjoy a delicious South Indian lunch as part of the experience. Please note that beverages and gratuities are not included. Any food ordered in addition to the South Indian lunch will be at your own expense. The tour starts with pickup, followed by guided tours of Chennakesava Temple, Somnathpur, Keertinarayana Temple, and Talakadu Temples.
Hot Tip
Many reviewers recommend wearing comfortable shoes, since there is a lot of walking involved! Also, bring some extra money if you want to buy souvenirs or snacks. Some reviewers suggest starting the tour early to avoid crowds.
Review Summary
People usually say the tour offers amazing insights into ancient Hoysala and Chola temples with knowledgeable local guides, exquisite carvings at Somnathpur, and the intriguing sand dune mystery at Talakadu, praising comfortable private transport, timely pickups, and delicious vegetarian lunch. Some note long driving times of about 3 hours each way and occasional heavy traffic, but overall rate it highly with a Badge of Excellence for sustainable tourism practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
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