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Sringeri, 90 kms west of
Chikmaglur town on the banks of the
river Tunga, is a city with epic associations.
The place is said to have been named after Rishyashringa who figures in
the Ramayana as the chief priest at the great sacrifice of King
Dasharatha. Widely known for the Jagadguru Shankaracharaya Matha of the
Adwaitha School of philosophy, Sringeri also has an ancient temple of
Vidyashankara.
Constructed on a picturesque spot parallel to the river Tunga, the temple
is fine example of artistic transition from Hoysala to Vijayanagara style.
Built around 1357 A.D., the imposing granite structure encloses friezes
of elephants, lions, dancers in various poses etc., and figures of various
Hindu gods enshrined richly with ornamental towers.
The 'garbha-griha' has a linga called Vidyashankara installed in the
memory of Guru Vidyatheertha. To the north of this temple is a more recent
temple built by skilled craftsmen of the 20th century and houses the
highly venerated Sharadamba image.
The new temple is built in the Dravidian style. A small 14th century,
temple of Janardhana close by is attributed to the Vijayanagara period.
Sringeri also has an old Jain Basadi dedicated to Parshwanatha
Theerthankara.
WHERE TO STAY
Temple Guest House.
P.W.D. Guest House.