Elegant friezes, erotic figures and foliage motifs are some of the few elements that sum up the sculpture of Tripurantakesvara Temple, Balligavi (modern Shivamogga district in Karnataka). According to historical data the temple was built in 1070 AD. The style of the architecture of the temple spells out that it belongs to the Western Chalukyas.

Tripurantakesvara Temple distinguishes itself with its perforated windows. The designs of the window screens have been intricately done on stone. Window panels have been used to decorate the either side of the temple doorway. Each of the panels displays the sculpted figures of nagas or snakes. The long entwined figures of the snakes fill up the entire window panels. These are good replacement for the thick foliage sculptures.

The outer walls of the Tripurantakesvara Temple are adorned with several erotic figures on its friezes. As a specimen of Chalukyan art this kind of sculpture is exceptional. Just above the temple entrance there are sculptures of Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu. Here Lord Shiva is depicted in the Bhairava form. The stone sculptures of the `dikpalas` stand at the doorway to guard the deity. There are certain interesting sculptures belonging to the Hoysala era still exist within the temple premises. One such example is the carved figure of a Hoysala ruler killing a lion. There is an inscription below this image and the king is accompanied by a hunting dog.

Soaked with stylishness and loaded with chiseled shapes and splendour the architecture and sculpture of Tripurantakesvara Temple is indeed awe inspiring.