Weekend Getaways Towards Hassan

Belur is a temple town near Hasan from the times of Hoysala dynasty. The work started in early 12th century and took more than 100 years to finish the work. In old days, it was the capital of Hoysala kingdom. It shares the history with Halebidu and Somnathpur. While the idols in Halebidu and Somnathpur were destroyed by muslim invaders, Belur temple remained safe. Legend has it that the locals had filled this temple completely with sand when the invaders were on their way to destroy this temple. That's how they could avoid the destruction of this temple.

The temple boasts of beautiful carvings all throughout and is a beautiful depiction of Hoysala architecture. There is one huge pillar inside the temple that could be rotated till about half-a-century back. Besides, there is another pillar in the open which stands on three corners (the fourth corner of the pillar doesn't touch the ground.

Belur, along with Halebidu and Shravanabelagola makes a good triangle for tourists.

Accomodation: There is a KSTC hotel in Belur. The booking can also be done from Bangalore KSTC office.

Halebidu is another architecture marvel from the Hoysala dynasty. The work on this temple was completed in 1121 CE. The temple is dedicated to Shiva (by the name Hoysaleshwara). It was looted and the idols were destroyed by Muslim invaders. Since then, it has been in neglect.

However, it still presents a beautiful picture of the Hoysala architecture. The carvings on the temple walls are very beautiful and much more elaborate than the Belur temple. The construction of this temple was actually taken up as a competition to Belur temple.

It is very close to Belur and is a visual treat for anyone interested in arts and sculptures.

Accomodation: There is no accomodation available in Halebidu. You'll have to stay at Belur, Chikamaglur or Hasan.

  Shravanabelagola is one of the most important places to visit in Karnataka. This historical centre located in Hassan district is famous for the 58 feet tall statue of Lord Gommateshwara or Bahubali. This is the most sacred place of visit for Jains.

The statue of Gommateshwara in Shravanabelagola dates back to 980 AD was eulogised by the sculptor 'arishTa nEmi' on top of the hill of 'Chandragiri'.

The basadis around the hill of Chandragiri are said to have been built by the Emperor Ashoka in 3rd century BC. Chandragupta Maurya, the grandfather of Ashoka is said to have medidated on top of this hill, renounced the throne and became a Jain ascetic.

The statue of Gommateshwara, the tallest in Asia, is made of Granite. It was also voted as one of the seven wonders of India.

There are 700 steps to reach the top of the hill. There are facilities to 'carry' the pilgrims who find it difficult to walk up to the top.

Shravanabelagola is also famous for the 'Maha mastakabhisheka' which is held once in 12 years where devotees bathe the statue of Gommateshwara with curd, milk, ghee, saffron and water. This attracts devouts from all over the world.

There are around 800 inscriptions in Kannada, Marati and Tamil on top of the hill, dating back to 10th century AD and hence this place is of importance to archaelogists too.

How to reach Shravanabelagola

Shravanabelagola is 157 kms from Bangalore, 83 kms from Mysore and 51 kms from Hassan.

From Bangalore- If using one's own vehicle, travel on NH 48 (Bangalore-Mangalore road).

Bangalore -> Nelamangala -> Kunigal -> Yadiyur -> Bellur cross -> Hirisaave

Left turn at Hirisaave to reaach Shravanabelagola which is 18 kms from here.

There are direct buses from Bangalore to Shravanabelagola. One can also board bus to Channarayapatna from Bangalore and then take local taxi/auto to Shravanabelagola which is 12 kms from Channarayapatna.

From Mysore- There are buses from Mysore to Shravanabelagola.

There is also a train connectivity to Channarayapatna.

Where to Stay:

If planning to stay in Shravanabelagola, there are good PWD guest houses and a few private hotels offering good services. One can also stay in Hassan and Channarayapatna. Jain Mutts also provide accomodation at Shravanabelagola

Places around Shravanabelagola

Both Belur and Halebidu are within 80 kms from Shravanabelagola and can be covered in a single day's trip from Bangalore.

Melkote (50), Yediyuru (40) , aadi chunchanagiri (25), Mysore(80) and Sringeri(200) are also not far away