This was a flourishing city under the Hoysala Kings, 800 years ago. The modern town hosts only one reminder of their grandeur. The Chinnakesava Temple stands, almost as perfectly preserved as on the day it was completed. A fabulous tribute to the genius and skill of medieval craftsmen. The friezes of animals, riders, Gods and Goddesses, carved with a minute elaboration of detail, are one of the most marvellous exhibitions of human labour to be found even in the patient East.