It is one of the ancient Jain centers having glorious religious tradition. This place has been sanctified by the visit of Shri Ramachandra who initiated the construction of the Jain temples here. Among this Chickkahanasoge Vrishabanatha Temple is the most notable.

This place was once the capital of Chengalvas and different royal dynasties including the Gangas, Cholas, Chengalvas, Kongalvas and Hoysalas have ruled the place in different periods. This is also the place where many wars were waged by the ruling dynasties and was one of the strong holds of Karnataka.