Ananthasayana temple, Vijayanagara: History, Timings & Visitor Guide

Ananthasayana temple is open every day, usually from early morning to late evening with a break in the afternoon. Darshan and aarti timings change with the season and on festival days.

• MorningOpens early morning (around 5 to 6 AM)
• AfternoonShort break around midday at many temples
• EveningEvening aarti around sunset, closes by about 8 to 9 PM

Ask the temple office on arrival for the day's aarti schedule.

Dress Code & Temple Rules

• DressModest, traditional clothes covering shoulders and knees
• FootwearRemove before entering; use the shoe stand
• PhotographyNot allowed inside the sanctum
• Not AllowedLeather items, tobacco, alcohol, non-veg food
• QueueFollow queue lines and staff instructions on festival days

The temple was erected by the renowned king Krishnadevaraya in 1524. Although the temple is significant, the inscription detailing its history is missing. The temple is believed to be connected to the artistic endeavors of the Vijayanagara Empire. This empire, renowned for its grandeur and achievements, was described by the 15th-century Persian ambassador, Abdur Razzak, as a remarkable place unmatched on earth. Today, the remnants of this once-glorious kingdom, particularly around Hampi in the Bellary district, stand as ruins that echo the empire's past splendor.

Legend & Significance

The temple's architectural design reflects the artistic traditions of the time, particularly in the way it accommodates the deity. A notable legend associated with the temple tells of a guide tasked with transporting the idol of Anantasayana to its intended location, who was instructed not to look back. When he broke this agreement, the idol remained immovable at Holalu, reflecting the challenges faced during that era.

Architecture of Ananthasayana temple

The temple is unique in its construction, featuring a large rectangular sanctuary that is accessed through triple doorways. This sanctuary was intended to accommodate a reclining image of Vishnu. The temple's structure is primarily made of plaster-covered brickwork, with only its long granite pedestal currently visible. A striking feature is the vaulted roof, which rises approximately 24 meters above the sanctuary, with semi-circular ends that are still intact, though partially restored. The sanctuary is preceded by a spacious mandapa supported by lofty columns.