Amruthapura is situated 67 km north of Chikmagalur town in Chikmagalur District, Karnataka state, India. Located 110 km from Hassan and 35 km from Shimoga on NH 206, Amruthapura is known for the splendid Amruteshwara temple (also called Amrutesvara or Amrtesvara) . The temple was built in 1196 by Amrutheswara Dandanayaka (commander) under Hoysala Veera Ballala II. Located in the close vicinity of the Bhadra River reservoir, a short distance from Tarikere town, this is an idyllic spot.

Amrutheswara temple:

The temple is a fine example of Hoysala workmanship built with a wide open mandapa (hall). Surrounded by Palm and Coconut farms, the temple still has its original outer wall with interesting, equally spaced circular carvings. The temple has one vimana (shrine), hence it is a ekakuta design and a closed mandapa (hall) connects the shrine to the large open mandapa.

The speciality of the temple are the rows of shining lathe turned pillars that support the ceiling of the mantapa. The mantapa has many deeply domed inner ceiling structures adorned with floral designs. The outer parapet wall of the open mantapa has a total of 140 panels of sculptures depicting the Hindu epics.

Ruvari Mallitamma, the famous Hoysala sculptor and architect started his career here working on the domed ceilings in the main mantapa

How to reach Amrithapura:

Amrithapura village is only 11 km from Tarikere and 20 km from Chikmagalur. The village can be easily reached from Tarikere, preferably by a taxi or auto rickshaw, which are available at the bazaar.

Tarikere is a rail station also, and is well connected by bus routes from many places in the State. Good lodges and rest houses are available at Tarikere for an overnight stay.