Papanatha Temple, Pattadakal, Karnataka India

Dedicated to Mukteswara according to inscriptions, this modest temple seems to have been completed around 740 A.D. There seems to have been a change of intention during the course of construction of this temple as can be known from its too narrow circumambulatory path whose floor slabs conceal the external moulding of the garbhagriha walls and the buttress like projections of the north and south garbhagriha-walls into the ardha-mandapa, both of which are unusual features. 

In Karnataka, Pattadakal is a small town that is renowned for its ancient temples. Located near Badami and Aihole, Pattadakal Temple can be easily reached by regular buses or private taxis from the major towns and cities of Karnataka. The Temples of Pattadakal, exhibhit the zenith of 'Vesara' style of Hindu temple architecture. Owing to its incredible temples, Pattadakal was titled a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987.

Pattadakal had once been the rich capital of the Chalukyas. During 7th - 8th century, Pattadakal Temples were got constructed by the Chalukya rulers. Portraying the rare specimen, the temples depict a wonderful blend of Dravidian (South-Indian) and Nagara (North-Indian) architectural styles. The phrase 'beauty in ruins' goes exactly with the town of Pattadakal. The beautiful settlement appears majestic with its series of nine temples.

The sculptural art of these temples is marked by classiness of the Chalukya dynasty. Pattadakal emerges as a heavenly site with its superb architectural marvels in a picture-perfect lane. The distinct styles and patterns of various temples reveal the designers' intelligence at a stretch. The temples of Pattadakal receive myriad number of tourists, who come from the distant lands, round the year.

Papanatha Temple is a small temple located built for Mukteswara and situated to the south of Virupaksha area. From the inscriptions, it was found that the structure was completed circa 740 AD. The idols of Nandi and Virabhadra had been placed in proximity of the entrance of the inner hall. Tourists visiting this temple can observe 16 massive pillars that are supporting the ceiling of the primary hall.