Belur Halebidu - Must see Heritage towns ...

Of the many destinations that Karnataka has to offer Belur and Halebidu would stand among the foremost, internationally known for its awe inspiring temples, a long and glorious history and easy access from Bangalore makes it one of the must see locations in the whole of Karnataka. The Capital of one of the most wonderful empires in the South – The Hoysalas , Belur was first Capital and then was moved to Halebidu. This wonder of the 12^th century still awes a 21^st century traveler beyond belief, with its intricate carvings and aura. October to April are the best months to visit the place.

 

Getting there :

By Road – It is a 217 km from Bangalore to Belur, one can drive down towards Tumkur – Kunigal on the NH48 and continue till Hassan and then get to Halebidu.

By Train – The nearest railway station is in Hassan and there are ample number of trains to Hassan from Bangalore.

Once you reach the Halebidu – which literally translates to “Old abode” in Kannada will present to you the magnificent Hoysaleshwara Temple, which is renowned for the fact that no two of its sculptures are alike, it has hundreds of sculptures and reliefs, with extreme detailing and spectacular meticulouslness. The intricate carvings run throughout the exterior of the temple which is guarded by the Shivate icon “The Nandi Bull”.  Then there is the magnificent Kedareshwara temple to keep your eyes happy. 

Belur is about 17 km from Halebidu and is known as “Dakshina Varanasi” translating to “Varanasi of the South”. Once you get to Belur the ever green, the ever mystic “Chenakeshave temple” touches your eyes and takes you in into its own aura, tansporting you back in time. With intricate detailing, the friezes and reliefs tell the tales from our great epics and the Upanishads. The 42 “Madanikas” or celestial beauties that are supposed to be inspired by the extremely beautiful and epitome of feminine beauty “Shantala Devi” adorn the place and will leave you speechless. The emblem of the “Hoysala” dynasty the sculpture of the tiger being slain by sala, which now has also almost become an icon of Karnataka. 

It is known that the artists from this time were encouraged to sign their signatures, making way to individualistic expression. The sculptures all though lined symmetrically differ from each other only extending its aesthetic exquisiteness. The distinctive star shaped exterior with detailed friezes is the epitome of the architectural history in Karnataka and mark a very important milestone in the history of art in India.

With all this heritage and history at 200 odd kilometers from the drab of the city makes it a superb destination for all Bangaloreans looking for a nice weekend get away. It also makes for a good trip if you are interested in photography, art and history. If you are used to sketching or making small drawings and notes do carry a sketch pad you will not regret it. 

Parinitha Konanur