Temple Architecture

LAKKUNDI AS ACENTRE OF REIGIOUS PLURALISM & TEMPLE ARCHITECTURE IN MEDIEVA DECCAN

Lakkundi in Karnataka is an important medieval heritage town known for its rich cultural, religious, and architectural legacy. Flourishing under the Western Chalukyas and Hoysalas, it became famous as the “village of a hundred temples and wells.” The site reflects religious pluralism, with strong associations with Shaivism, Vaishnavism, Jainism, and the Virashaiva Bhakti movement.

Its beautifully carved temples and stepwells, built in the distinctive Kalyana Chalukya style, highlight both artistic excellence and sacred utility. Recent archaeological excavations, including evidence of much earlier habitation, have strengthened efforts to include Lakkundi in UNESCO’s World Heritage tentative list, underscoring its enduring historical significance.