Vithala Temple Complex is a world heritage monument, located on the southern bank of the
Tungabhadra River, in
Hampi of
Karnataka. Dating back to the 15th century, Vithala Temple was built during the rule of King
Devaraya II. The main temple is dedicated to
Lord Vishnu in the form of Vithala.
The shrine is noted for its exquisite sculptural works, elaborate pillars and beautifully carved gopuras and mandapams. Noteworthy among the attractions is the life-size chariot carved out of granite with revolving wheels, each shaped in the form of a lotus. Another remarkable feature is a large Ranga Mandapa with 56 musical pillars which produce musical notes when struck.
Most of the inner pillars in the mandapams are graced with figures of women dancers and drummers and beautiful multi-petalled lotus carvings. The temple courtyard has the god's sanctum with its axial mandapam in the center. Amman sanctum, ardha mandapam, kalyana mandapam, utsava mandapam and maha mandapam with symmetrical redressed sides are also within the temple complex.
