Halebidu is in the midst of a valley east of the Western Ghats (Sahyadri Mountains in Karnataka). Low-lying mountains, boulders and seasonal rivers surround it. This valley is well connected to northern Karnataka, western Andhra Pradesh and northern Tamil Nadu. Around this region, between the 10th and 14th centuries, the Hoysaḷa dynasty came to power, whose history is unclear. Halebidu was built anew near a large reservoir by the early Hoysala kings, with support from their governors, merchants, and artisans. There are many places to visit in Halebidu.
Places To Visit In Halebidu
Here is a list of some interesting tourist spots in Halebidu for an amazing vacation in Karnataka. Make sure to note it down!
1. Hoysaleswara Temple
Image Credit: Anks.manuja for Wikimedia Commons
Hoysaleswara Temple is the main attraction and a 900-year-old monument in Halebidu or Dwarasamudra, the capital of the Hoysalas. Every visit to this place brings a sense of calm and peace, and it is one of the finest Hoysala temples. The drive from Bangalore is very good, with most of it on the Hassan Mangalore highway. We visited Chikmagalur for a long weekend in March and, while returning, visited this grand temple. I want to share some parts of the temple visually, hoping to do justice to a place that takes you back 900 years. It is one of the top locations where tourists flock whenever they visit the state of Karnataka, and you must, too!
Location: Halebidu, Karnataka
Distance: From Halebidu: 130 m
Must Read: Things To Do In Karnataka
2. Hantaleswara Temple
Image Credit: VasuVR for Wikimedia Commons
Shantaleshwara Temple was built in the 12th century as a tribute to Lord Shiva. Housed in Halebidu, it is one of the most religious places to visit in Belur. The complex has two identical temples, Shantaleshwara and Hoysaleshwara. It is located 17 km away from Belur. The temple is named after Queen Shantaladevi, wife of King Vishnuvaradhana Hoysala. Both are known to have been enshrined in the temple. One of the most striking characteristics of the temple is that its basal structure resembles a star! Besides that, each temple is enriched by intricate carvings that play out various significant stories from Hindu mythology. If you appreciate architecture, the Shaneshwara temple is a must-see!
Location: Halebidu, Karnataka
Distance: From Halebidu: 10 m
3. Maharaja Park
Image Credit: Samson Joseph for Wikimedia Commons
Maharaja Park is a beautiful park located in Hassan town of Karnataka, 3 km from Hassan Railway Station. Situated at Rangoli Halla, it is a popular picnic spot in the town and is often visited by locals and tourists. Maharaja Park is the only park listed in Hassan. It is a well-manicured park covered with a green layer of grass. Many spacious walkways are laid of green dollops of bushes and tall trees. Apart from this, there is also a separate children’s playground where you can let your kids play. This makes it a perfect place for families with children to see Hassan. It has a children’s play area and spacious walkways lined by tall trees and lush green lawns. It is a popular picnic spot in the town and is often visited by locals and tourists.
Location: Rangoli Halla, Hassan, Karnataka
Distance: From Halebidu: 30 km
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Belur
4. Halebidu Archaeological Site Museum
Image Credit: A.Murali for Wikimedia Commons
This open-air museum in Halebid houses countless sculptures, exhibits, inscriptions and more and has displays representing Indian Art at various foreign exhibitions. Dancing Shiva, Nataraja and Veena Saraswati, dancing Ganesha, and a bronze statue of a Tirthankara are some of the most significant sculptures and exhibits here. The Archaeological Museum is situated opposite the Hoysaleswara Temple. Established in the early 1970s, it has more than 1500 sculptures and inscriptions of historical significance recovered in and around Halebidu. The collection is displayed in a closed sculpture gallery and an open-air museum with a large reserve collection. It also displays an 18-foot Tirthankara image from the ruined tank of one of the Jaina basadis. The open-air museum displays many important sculptures like Govardhanagiridhari Krishna, Dancing Shiva, Nataraja and Veena Saraswati, dancing Ganesha, etc. Most artefacts exhibited in the museum are from the 12th – 13th century.
Location: Halebidu, Karnataka
Distance: From Halebidu: 20 m
5. Yagachi Dam Belur
Image Credit: Harijibhv for Wikimedia Commons
At 2.5 km from Belur Bus Stand, Yagachi Dam is an earthen gravity dam situated near Belur in the Hassan district of Karnataka. Famous for its water sports, the dam is one of the most beautiful in Karnataka and also one of the most popular places to visit in Belur. The Yagachi Dam was built in 2001 across the River Yagachi, a tributary of River Kaveri. The length of the dam is 1280 m, and the height is 26 meters. Situated at an altitude of 965 feet, the dam was constructed to harness water resources for irrigation and to meet the demands for drinking water in Belur, Chikmagalur and Hassan districts. The natural beauty of the landscape mesmerizes visitors. Tourists flock in large numbers to enjoy the beauty of the dam and the surrounding areas. The place is ideal for spending time away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The cool breeze of the dam rejuvenates the mind and the body. Sitting near the reservoir and watching the calm water relaxes one.
Recently, the Yagachi Water Adventure Sports Centre was set up in the backwaters of this dam to attract tourists. Tourists can indulge in various water sports activities like banana boat rides, cruise boats, speed boats, kayaking, jet skiing, etc. are available.
Location: State Highway 57, Attalgere, Karnataka
Distance: From Halebidu: 17 km
Further Read: Hotels In Belur
Now that you have some helpful information about several places to visit in Halebidu, it is time to pack your bags and set off on your travel journey. Karnataka has always welcomed tourists with open arms. Make haste and book your tickets now for an adventurous Trip To Karnataka.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Halebidu
What is the usual weather in Halebidu?
The climate remains pleasant, and the temperature ranges from 10 to 25 degrees Celcius. The city seems washed and fresh after the rains. Summers remain hot and humid in Halebid. It starts in March and ends in May. Generally, tourists avoid these months. Temperature ranges between 25 to 44 degrees Celcius during these months.
What is the best time to visit Halebidu?
October to February are the best months to visit Halebid. The dance festival of Hoysala Mahotsava during March, along with Mahashivratri and Diwali, can also make your experience festive and all the more enjoyable.
What essentials should be carried while travelling to Halebidu?
October to February are the best months to visit Halebid. The dance festival of Hoysala Mahotsava during March, along with Mahashivratri and Diwali, can also make your experience festive and all the more enjoyable.
What is the local food of Halebidu?
Raajamudi rice is widely grown and widely used in local households. Villages around Halebeedu are famous for leafy green vegetables and small commercial crops.
How much time does it take to cover the famous Halebidu temple there?
While it's mentioned that people can visit the heritage temple for about 3 hours, one can spend a day or more to experience and understand the intricate details and appreciate the skilful beauty, the amazing sculptures and the dedication that went into it.
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