Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple
Also known as Melukote Temple
Hilltop Vaishnava shrine associated with Ramanujacharya, who lived here for 12 years and revived the temple.
Photos of Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple
- Presiding Deity
- Vishnu
- Established
- 12th century CE
- Architecture
- Hoysala–Vijayanagara
- Address
- Melukote, Mandya 571431
- Timings
- 07:30–13:00, 16:00–20:00
History of Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple
Idol was retrieved by Ramanuja from Delhi in the 12th century. The Vairamudi diamond crown, worn by the deity once a year, is one of the temple's most sacred jewels.
Festivals Celebrated at Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple
- Vairamudi Utsava
- Vaikuntha Ekadasi
How to Reach Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple
Melukote is 50 km from Mysuru.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple
Where is Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple located?
- Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple is located at Melukote, Mandya 571431, in Melukote, Karnataka, India.
Who is the presiding deity at Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple?
- The presiding deity at Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple is Vishnu (also known as Narayana, Hari), worshipped in the Vaishnava tradition.
What are the timings of Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple?
- Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple is generally open 07:30–13:00, 16:00–20:00. Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.
When was Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple built?
- Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple was established 12th century CE. Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.
What is the architectural style of Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple?
- Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple is built in the Hoysala–Vijayanagara style, characteristic of Vishnu shrines of this region.
Which festivals are celebrated at Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple?
- The principal festivals celebrated at Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple include Vairamudi Utsava, Vaikuntha Ekadasi. These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Karnataka and beyond.
How can I reach Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple?
- Melukote is 50 km from Mysuru.
Why is Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple significant?
- Hilltop Vaishnava shrine associated with Ramanujacharya, who lived here for 12 years and revived the temple.
Is there an entry fee at Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple?
- Entry to the main shrine of Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple is generally free for darshan. Special sevas, abhishekams and priority queues may carry a nominal fee — check with the temple office on arrival.
What is the dress code at Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple?
- Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple follows the traditional dress code observed at Karnataka temples — modest attire covering shoulders and knees. Many shrines in the region also expect men to remove upper garments before entering the sanctum.