Skip to content
Tripsora

World heritage Somnathpur sculptures and Talakadu temple mystery

4.8(80)Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 80 reviews9 hFree cancellationBy 5 Senses Walks
The sculptures

About this activity

At Somnathpur you will find one of the most perfectly preserved temples in India. The 13th century Chennakesava temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by the Hoysala dynasty on a star shaped platform, its exterior covered entirely in carved sculpture. Every dancer on the walls has her nose cut off. Your guide will unravel that mystery.

At Talakadu you will find something completely different. This was once a thriving town of 30 temples until a queen cursed it in the 17th century and the sand dunes buried everything. Five temples have since been excavated from the sand. One has a lingam said to change colour through the day from red to black to white. A bullock cart ride takes you between the temples through the dunes.

Two extraordinary sites. One private car from Bangalore. An expert cultural guide throughout. All entry fees are included.

What's included

  • ✓Pickup and drop-off
  • ✓Private guide
  • ✓Air-conditioned vehicle

Not included

  • ✕Beverages
  • ✕Gratuities
  • ✕Any food ordered other than south indian lunch

Good to know

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Minimum age is 18 years
  • Footwear needs to be removed before entering temples and we have multiple temples on this itinerary. So slippers or slip-ons which can be easily removed, are preferable
  • A dress code is required to enter places of worship. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

More things to do in Bangalore

Bangalore Through the Ages: Lalbagh, Temple & Market City Tour

As you journey through this comprehensive Bangalore tour, your senses come alive with the city’s blend of history and modernity, from the serene grandeur of the ISKCON Temple to the lush beauty of Lalbagh Botanical Garden, the vibrant chaos of KR Market, the storied walls of Bangalore Fort, and the majestic presence of Bangalore Palace. You pause for a memorable lunch at a century-old iconic eate…

5.0(472)Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 472 reviews9 hFree cancellation

From £83.52 per person

Best of Mysore, UNESCO Somnathpur Temple & Srirangapatna Day Tour

Explore the Top Three Must-Visit monuments and hidden gems in the Mysore Region in One Day Enjoy the full-day tour led by a dedicated expert guide, rather than brief interactions with local guides at each monument. A traditional breakfast, lunch and all entrance tickets are included in the price. Hassle-free round-trip A/C transport from your central Bangalore hotel

5.0(434)Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 434 reviews13 hFree cancellation

From £100.56 per person

Bangalore city tour with English guide & multi language support

Most visitors to Bangalore know the city for its tech campuses. What they do not know is that beneath the glass towers lies one of South India's most historically rich cities, founded in 1537 by a chieftain named Kempe Gowda. This private Bangalore city tour takes you through that hidden city in a single day. Walk through Lalbagh, the 240 acre botanical garden planted by Hyder Ali in 1760. Visit…

5.0(316)Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 316 reviews8 hFree cancellation

From £71.76 per person