Belur is the best example of South Indian architecture, and its regal beauty and superb quality are unrivalled. Belur’s many tourist attractions attest to the town’s stunning beauty and enchantment. A tiny temple town in the Hassan district of Karnataka, around 220 kilometers from Bangalore. Belur is one of the most visited places in Karnataka and is sometimes referred to as the “Banaras of the South” or “Dakshina Banaras”.
Belur, the former capital of the Hoysala Kingdom, is one of the most important pilgrimage places for the Hindu community due to the presence of several monuments, temples, and holy shrines. Furthermore, Belur is a well-known tourist hotspot that annually draws in many visitors from all over the globe.
Historically known as Velapura or Velur, this temple town served as the capital of the powerful Hoysala Empire. Belur is home to many wonderful tourist attractions that will leave you in awe and demonstrate why India deserves the moniker “Incredible India”.
In Belur, Karnataka, the following attractions are the most popular:
1. Chennakesava Temple
The Belur Bus Station is around 500 meters away from this old temple, making it one of the town’s greatest testimonies. Historiographers estimate that it took over a century to build this magnificent temple, which was finally finished in 1117 A.D. There is not a single blank spot on the front of this sacred building; it is entirely carved from soft soapstone. The Chennakesava Temple is a popular tourist destination in Belur due to its impressive collection of creative stone sculptures and intricate carvings.
This impressive structure was erected by the renowned King Vishnuvardhana of the Hoysala Dynasty and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the guardian of the universe. The temple has a six-foot-tall image of Vishnu, and the entry doorway is one hundred feet high.
The main attractions include the 645 one-of-a-kind elephant carvings, the sculptures of Madanakai damsels, the carvings in Navarang, and the depictions of scenes from the Puranas, the Upanishads, the Ramayana, and the Mahabharata.
Highlights:
- Incredible Sculptures: Marvel at the exquisite sculptures on the temple’s exterior walls, including finely detailed figures of deities and celestial dancers.
- Unique Pillars: Admire the Narasimha Pillar, which was once rotatable, and the Mohini Pillar, known for its intricate design and carvings.
- Vast Complex: Explore the spacious temple courtyard, complete with smaller shrines and sculptural masterpieces, offering insight into Hoysala art and architecture.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, about 160 km away. Alternatively, Bangalore Airport is around 222 km from Belur.
- By Train: Hassan Railway Station, located about 40 km away, is the closest railhead with good connectivity to major cities in Karnataka.
- By Road: Belur is well-connected by road and can be reached by state-run or private buses from Bangalore, Mangalore, and Hassan. Taxis are also available from Hassan.
2. Halebidu
Halebidu is in the Hassan district of Karnataka and is 17 kilometers from Belur, 32 kilometers from Hassan, 34 kilometers from Chikmagalur, 148 kilometers from Mysore, and 211 kilometers from Bangalore. It is a must-see attraction and one of the top tourist destinations in all of Karnataka.
Beautiful Hoysala Temples dedicated to Hoysaleswara and Kedareswara were constructed at Halebidu (or Halebid) in 1121 A.D. All Halebidu tours should include stops at these landmarks. The other two Hoysala temples up for World Heritage status are the Belur and Somnathpur structures. Sculptures and carvings at the Hoysala temples are so detailed and ornate that they seem made of metal after being polished.
In the 12th century, Halebidu served as the opulent royal capital of the Hoysala dynasty. Dorasamudra and Dwarasamudra were renamed Halebidu, which means “The Old City”, after being destroyed twice by Malik Kafur.
Two Hindu temples—Hoysaleswara and Kedareswara—and two Jain bases make up the town’s temple complex. The temple grounds also host an archaeological museum. A large lake surrounds the temples at this location. These sacred buildings were constructed from Chloritic Schist, also known as soapstone. Halebidu is a great tourist destination not far from Bangalore.
Highlights:
- Hoysaleswara Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is adorned with intricate stone carvings that depict scenes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana.
- Twin Nandi Statues: The temple houses two giant Nandi (bull) statues, which are remarkable in size and craftsmanship.
- Sculptural Art: The level of detail on the temple’s exteriors, including scenes of battle, daily life, and mythology, showcases the artistic achievements of the Hoysala period.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Mangalore International Airport (160 km) and Bangalore Airport (210 km) are the closest airports.
- By Train: Hassan Railway Station is about 35 km from Halebidu. From there, you can take a taxi or bus.
- By Road: Regular buses operate between Hassan and Halebidu. Alternatively, taxis can be hired from Belur or Hassan to reach Halebidu directly.
3. Archaeological Museum
Several sculptures, displays, inscriptions, and other artifacts are displayed at this open-air museum in Halebid. All of these are examples of exhibits of Indian art in other countries.
A statue of Nataraja (Dancing Shiva) and Veena Saraswati (the Goddess of Music) may be seen within the museum. A stunning bronze statue of Tirthankara is nearby.
Highlights:
- Ancient Sculptures: View original stone sculptures of deities, including Vishnu, Shiva, and Ganesha, from various Hoysala temples.
- Inscriptions and Artefacts: Discover ancient inscriptions and artifacts that provide insight into the Hoysala dynasty’s history and achievements.
- Educational Experience: The museum offers informative exhibits that help visitors appreciate the skill and artistry of the Hoysala artisans.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airports are Mangalore International Airport (160 km) and Bangalore Airport (210 km).
- By Train: Hassan Railway Station (35 km away) is the nearest railhead.
- By Road: From Belur or Hassan, you can take a bus or taxi to reach Halebidu and then walk to the museum, which is close to Hoysaleswara Temple.
4. Belavadi
The Sri Veera Narayana Temple in Belavadi is renowned for its Hoysala-style architecture. The prince of the Pandavas, Bheema, is credited for killing the demon Bakasura and saving the hamlet and its inhabitants in the location known as Ekachakranagara in the Mahabharata. Chikmagalur vacation packages often include a trip to the Belavadi Temple.
Veera Bhallala II, king of the Hoysala Empire, commissioned the construction of the Veera Narayana temple in the 13th century. There are three incarnations of Vishnu worshipped at this temple. Intricate sculpture at Belur and Halebid may get more attention, but this temple is a prime example of Hoysala-style construction.
A square garbhagriha, sukanasi, Ranga mandapa, and a square maha mantapa make up the western side of the temple. All of this building is perched on an elevated platform. It is thought that this temple was erected in two distinct periods and that both phases used soapstone for the construction. Sri Veera Narayana sits in the centre of the temple, facing east, Sri Venugopala is to the north, and Sri Yoganarasimha is to the south, all in typical trikuta style (three vimanas). Temples dedicated to Krishna and Narayana were subsequently constructed.
Two beautiful sculpted elephants flank the entryway of the temple. The two newer shrines face each other across the long Mandapa from the oldest shrine in the middle. Veera Narayana’s Ranga mandapa is notable for its ornate ceiling and bell-shaped pillars. The temple’s outside walls are adorned with intricately carved pilasters and towers. A four-armed statue of Veera Narayana, standing 8 feet tall, can be seen at the main temple. This statue is among the finest works of Hoysala art.
Highlights:
- Trikutachala Architecture: Admire the unique three-shrine layout, each containing a different form of Lord Vishnu – Veera Narayana, Yoga Narasimha, and Gopala.
- Intricate Pillars: The temple’s interior features exquisitely carved pillars that showcase the Hoysala style’s geometric precision and ornamental detail.
- Quiet Ambiance: The serene atmosphere of Belavadi makes it an ideal spot for reflection, away from the crowds, with beautiful surroundings to enjoy.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore (170 km). Bangalore Airport is around 235 km away.
- By Train: Hassan Railway Station, about 30 km from Belavadi, is the closest railway station.
- By Road: Belavadi is accessible by bus or taxi from Belur and Hassan. Local buses frequently operate from Hassan to Belavadi.
5. Hoysaleswara Temple
A well-known Hindu temple in Halebid, known as the Hoysaleswara Temple, dates back to the 12th century. Located to the west of Halebid’s Dwarasamudra Lake, this majestic temple is a well-known symbol of the Hoysala dynasty. This temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva in South India, is regarded as one of Belur’s most impressive sights.
Highlights:
- Ornate Carvings: The temple is renowned for its exterior walls, adorned with carvings that depict deities, mythical creatures, and scenes from Hindu epics.
- Monolithic Nandi Statues: The twin statues of Nandi are a sight to behold, notable for their size and craftsmanship.
- Architectural Marvel: With its intricate sculptures and ornate designs, Hoysaleswara Temple is an essential site for understanding the depth of Hoysala artistry.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Mangalore International Airport (160 km) and Bangalore Airport (210 km) are the nearest airports.
- By Train: Hassan Railway Station is about 35 km away.
- By Road: Buses run from Hassan to Halebidu, or you can hire a taxi from Belur or Hassan to reach Hoysaleswara Temple directly.
6. Yagachi Dam
Located just outside Belur, Yagachi Dam is a scenic spot built across the Yagachi River. It’s known for its tranquil surroundings and the Yagachi Water Adventure Sports Center, which offers activities like kayaking, jet-skiing, and boating.
The dam is surrounded by lush landscapes, making it a peaceful escape for nature lovers. It’s an ideal place for a relaxed picnic, enjoying the views, and capturing beautiful sunset photographs. With its serene environment, Yagachi Dam is a perfect complement to Belur’s historical attractions.
Why Visit: Located just a few kilometers from Belur, Yagachi Dam offers a scenic escape with tranquil waters and picturesque surroundings. Built across the Yagachi River, the dam is a peaceful spot for nature lovers and ideal for a relaxed picnic.
Highlights:
- Water Sports: The Yagachi Water Adventure Sports Center offers activities like kayaking, jet-skiing, and boating.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy stunning views of the dam and surrounding landscapes, especially beautiful during sunset.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: The dam is a great spot for unwinding and enjoying a quiet time amidst nature.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Mangalore International Airport (160 km) and Bangalore Airport (222 km) are the closest airports.
- By Train: Hassan Railway Station is 40 km away, with good connectivity.
- By Road: Yagachi Dam is only 3 km from Belur. Local taxis or auto-rickshaws are available from Belur to the dam.
7. Kedareshwara Temple
Situated in Halebidu near Belur, Kedareshwara Temple is a masterpiece of Hoysala architecture dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and detailed depictions of Hindu deities and mythological scenes on its walls.
Inside, the sacred Shiva Linga adds spiritual significance to the site, attracting devotees and history enthusiasts alike. Visiting Kedareshwara Temple offers a quiet atmosphere for reflection and admiration of the architectural expertise of the Hoysala dynasty, making it a must-visit for those exploring the area’s heritage.
Why Visit: This 12th-century Hoysala temple is located in Halebidu, close to Belur, and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Known for its intricate carvings and architectural detail, the temple is an excellent spot for those interested in Hoysala architecture.
Highlights:
- Detailed Sculptures: The temple walls feature beautiful carvings depicting scenes from Hindu epics.
- Shiva Linga: Inside the temple, visitors can see the sacred Shiva Linga, an important site for devotees.
- Architectural Grandeur: Admire the temple’s Hoysala design, which includes ornate pillars and delicately carved deities.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (160 km) or Bangalore Airport (210 km).
- By Train: Hassan Railway Station, located about 35 km away, is the closest railhead.
- By Road: Take a bus or taxi from Belur or Hassan to reach Halebidu, then walk to Kedareshwara Temple, located nearby Hoysaleswara Temple.
8. Shravanabelagola
Around 80 kilometers from Belur, Shravanabelagola is a renowned Jain pilgrimage site known for its 57-foot statue of Lord Gommateshwara (Bahubali). This impressive monolithic statue, one of the largest in the world, stands atop Vindhyagiri Hill, accessible by a climb that rewards visitors with panoramic views of the town.
The site’s religious importance and historic significance are amplified during the Mahamastakabhisheka festival, held every 12 years. Shravanabelagola offers a unique cultural experience, combining spiritual exploration with stunning views and ancient Jain heritage.
Why Visit: Located about 80 kilometers from Belur, Shravanabelagola is a prominent Jain pilgrimage site known for the towering 57-foot monolithic statue of Lord Gommateshwara (Bahubali). The site attracts visitors for its religious significance and breathtaking views from Vindhyagiri Hill.
Highlights:
- Gommateshwara Statue: One of the largest monolithic statues in the world, a marvel of ancient craftsmanship.
- Historic Significance: Shravanabelagola has deep connections to Jainism, and it hosts the Mahamastakabhisheka festival every 12 years.
- Panoramic Views: After a short climb, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscape.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Bangalore Airport, around 145 km away, is the closest major airport.
- By Train: Shravanabelagola has a small railway station, but the nearest major station is Hassan Railway Station, 52 km away.
- By Road: Regular buses operate from Bangalore, Hassan, and Mysore to Shravanabelagola. Taxis are also available from these cities.
9. Doddagaddavalli Lakshmi Devi Temple
Just 20 kilometers from Belur, the Lakshmi Devi Temple in Doddagaddavalli is an architectural gem from the Hoysala period. This unique multi-shrine temple, dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, is adorned with intricate carvings of deities, animals, and mythological figures.
The four shrines within the complex showcase distinct architectural styles, adding to its uniqueness among Hoysala temples. The temple’s peaceful setting amid a small village makes it an ideal spot for quiet reflection and appreciation of Karnataka’s ancient artistry, offering visitors a lesser-known but equally captivating historical site.
Why Visit: Situated around 20 kilometers from Belur, the Lakshmi Devi Temple in Doddagaddavalli is an architectural gem from the Hoysala period. It’s unique for its early Hoysala architecture and four shrines within one complex.
Highlights:
- Multi-Shrine Complex: The temple features four shrines dedicated to different deities, showcasing the artistry of the Hoysala dynasty.
- Intricate Carvings: Beautiful carvings and sculptures adorn the temple, with unique depictions of various deities and mythical creatures.
- Peaceful Setting: The temple’s serene atmosphere makes it a great spot for quiet exploration and spiritual reflection.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airports are Mangalore International Airport (160 km) and Bangalore Airport (230 km).
- By Train: Hassan Railway Station is around 20 km away and is well-connected to major Karnataka cities.
- By Road: Doddagaddavalli is easily accessible by taxi from Hassan. You can also take local buses from Hassan to reach the village.
10. Sakaleshpur
Located about 35 kilometers from Belur, Sakaleshpur is a picturesque hill station known for its coffee plantations, verdant landscapes, and misty hills. It’s an inviting destination for nature lovers, offering a range of activities from coffee estate tours to scenic hikes.
Highlights include the star-shaped Manjarabad Fort, which provides stunning views of the Western Ghats. Sakaleshpur’s hiking trails lead visitors through lush forests, past waterfalls, and to breathtaking viewpoints, making it a peaceful and refreshing getaway for those seeking nature and tranquility close to Belur’s historic sites.
Why Visit: Sakaleshpur, located about 35 kilometers from Belur, is a hill station known for its lush coffee plantations, verdant hills, and misty landscapes. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and those seeking a refreshing getaway amidst greenery.
Highlights:
- Manjarabad Fort: Visit this star-shaped fort, offering stunning views of the Western Ghats and surrounding coffee plantations.
- Coffee Plantations: Take a tour of the coffee estates, learning about coffee cultivation and sampling fresh brews.
- Hiking Trails: Sakaleshpur has scenic trekking routes that lead to waterfalls, hills, and viewpoints ideal for nature enthusiasts.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Mangalore International Airport (130 km) and Bangalore Airport (220 km) are the nearest airports.
- By Train: Sakaleshpur Railway Station is well-connected to Bangalore, Mangalore, and Hassan.
- By Road: Buses frequently run from Bangalore, Hassan, and Mangalore to Sakaleshpur. Taxis are also available from nearby cities.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a holiday spot that’s a little different from the typical mountain or beach getaway, Belur is a fantastic option. Travelling through time to Belur’s ancient structures, temples, and sacred sites will add depth to your vacation. Put together a wonderful journey to this place of culture and legacy, and pack your luggage. People interested in art, culture, architecture, and photography will find a lot to like here.
Visit Karnataka for more information:
- Top 10 Destinations to See in Hassan
- 20 Tourist Places near Mysore within 200 km
- 8 Destinations to See around Mysore Palace
- Mysore 10 Famous Tourist Places to Visit
- 7 Must Things to Visit in Mysore Palace
- Karnataka has 15 reasons why you should visit it
- Top 10 Karnataka Historical Monuments
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What is Belur famous for?
Belur is famous for the Chennakesava Temple, an architectural marvel built by the Hoysala dynasty, showcasing intricate carvings and sculptures.
2. What are the must-visit places in Belur?
Must-visit places include the Chennakesava Temple, Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu (nearby), and the Archaeological Museum.
3. Is there an entry fee for Chennakesava Temple?
Entry to the Chennakesava Temple is usually free, but a small fee might be required for taking photographs.
4. What are the temple timings in Belur?
The Chennakesava Temple is generally open from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM, with a break in the afternoon. It’s best to check locally for any changes.
5. How far is Halebidu from Belur?
Halebidu is about 16 kilometers from Belur, making it a convenient visit to explore more Hoysala architecture.
6. Can I visit Belur and Halebidu in a single day?
Yes, both places are close enough to cover in a day, allowing visitors to explore both Chennakesava Temple in Belur and Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu.
7. Are there guides available at the temples?
Yes, local guides are available to explain the history and significance of the temples, adding depth to your visit.
8. What is the best time to visit Belur?
The best time is between October and March, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing.
9. How can I reach Belur from Bangalore?
Belur is about 220 kilometers from Bangalore and can be reached by car, bus, or train. The nearest railway station is in Hassan, around 40 kilometers away.
10. Are there any festivals celebrated in Belur?
Yes, the Hoysala Mahotsava is a popular annual festival celebrated in Belur, featuring classical dance and music performances that highlight its cultural heritage.
