The Papanatha Temple at Pattadakal stands out as one of the most remarkable structures in India. Built in three distinct stages, this temple showcases both Nagara and Dravida characteristics, yet it deviates from the Vesara style typically seen in such structures.

Situated slightly apart from the main cluster of temples, the Papanatha Temple boasts a unique ground plan due to its construction in three phases. The first phase involved the creation of the main sanctum and the gathering hall (sabhamandapa). In the second phase, a circumambulatory path was added around the sanctum. The final phase witnessed the construction of a larger hall with an entrance porch. The Nandi statue, initially located outside the temple, was later incorporated into the main hall (mahamandapa).

The sculptural plan of the temple is truly magnificent. The same artisans who crafted the narrative carvings on the walls of the Virupaksha Temple worked their brilliance here as well. The temple is adorned with narratives from Shaivite, Vaishnavite, and Shakti themes, including depictions from the Ramayana and Kiratarjuniya.

Notably, the lintel above the sanctum entrance is usually indicative of the deity inside. For instance, Shiva temples often have Ganesha on the lintel, while Surya temples depict Surya himself. However, the lintel of the Papanatha Temple is unique in itself, featuring an image of Garuda, the divine vehicle of Vishnu. This suggests that the temple may have originally been dedicated to Vishnu.

The decorations, parapets, and certain elements of the layout follow the Dravida style, while the tower (shikhara) and miniature shrines (devakoshtas) adhere to the Nagara style. The base (adisthana) showcases a fusion of both Dravida and Nagara styles. The devakoshtas are interspersed throughout, and the pilastered shrines frame the deities placed inside

Inside the mandapas, the pillars are exquisitely carved with figures in tribhanga pose, accompanied by intricate foliage and other elements. Outside, one can find sculptures of elephants, apsaras, Mithuna couples, and ganas playing musical instruments. Only one of the two dvarapalas (gatekeepers) at the entrance has survived, but it exudes grace and poise.

The temple, known as Mukteshwar in an inscription, features an entrance porch (Mukha Mandapa) that leads to a hall of sixteen pillars (mahamandapa), which connects to a smaller mandapa (sabha mandapa). A vestibule (antarala) crowned with an elaborately crafted sukanasa provides access to the sanctum, housing a Shivalinga. An ambulatory path encircles the garbhagriha (inner sanctum).

In front of this magnificent man-made marvel lies another natural wonder—the Malaprabha River. Perched on a high platform, the temple offers a breathtaking view of the babbling river. It is a perfect spot to soak in the tranquillity and admire the harmonious beauty of man-made and natural creations.

Pattadakal is renowned for its exceptional architectural gems, and while each temple possesses its unique features, the Papanatha Temple truly stands apart—both literally and figuratively. Its distinctive ground plan, hybrid characteristics, offset location, and rich history make it one of India's most extraordinary structures.