Somapalli - Channakesavaswamy Aalayam

Built in the Vijayanagara style of construction, this temple though in dilapidated condition, displays beautiful sculpture worthy of admiration and veneration. It is lying in the west of the village popularly known as Somapalem and Somapalli for short. Belief is current  that it was built by the Vijayanagara kings, but neither the date nor the name of the builder is known for certainty. Being the outcome of royal patronage, it is quite imposing in dimensions and architectural designs. A tall 60 -foot high deepasthambha gleams into sight at the first instance and is situated outside the compound. The Mahadwara faces east and is adorned with a high multi-storied tower. It contains all the essential parts like garbhagriha, antarala, mukhamandap, mahamandap - all extensive in size and grand to look at The courtyards contain niches for parivaradevathas. The Mulavurat - Channakesavaswamy is made of granite and it is a beautiful specimen of elegant craftsmanship and displays the builders refined taste. Indeed, as the local version goes, it mesmerized the visitors with its beauty in the past. Alas! it is now almost in ruins and seems making an appeal for restoration to its former glory. The Devi mandir situated to its north, although small in sue contains all the essential parts. It is an independent one beckoning attention by its beauty and sanctity.

There are some more temples in this village, like Sri Ramalayam, Chandra Mouleeswara alayam and Kota Choudeeswara alayam. Due to lying in a remote place with inadequate transport facilities, its glory is eclipsed now.

It lies 5 km off Mulacalacheruvu of Madanapalli taluq of Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, having bus facilities.

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