You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

  • 8 Places To Visit In Belur In 2024 – The “Banaras of South”

26 Oct 2021

If there is one place that exemplifies the royal beauty and exquisite craftsmanship of South Indian architecture, it’s Belur. The myriad places to visit in Belur corroborate the fact how beautiful and enchanting this place is. Located around 220 km from Bangalore, Belur is small temple town nestled on the banks of River Yagachi in Hassan district of Karnataka. Popularly known as “Banaras of South” or “Dakshina Banaras” Belur is one of the most famous destinations in Karnataka.

Belur, the erstwhile capital of the Hoysala Kingdom is home to several monuments, temples and holy shrines, making it one of the most significant pilgrimage spots for the people of the Hindu community. Besides, Belur is also a popular destination attracting huge crowds every year from different corners of the world.

This temple town was once the capital of the mighty Hoysala Empire and was formerly called as Velapura or Velur. You will be amazed with a wide range of tourist places in Belur , that are not just breathtaking but justifies the true meaning of “Incredible India”.

Weather In Belur

belur math karnataka

Image Source

The town experiences subtropical climate and moderate weather throughout the year. During the summers, the temperature can rise up to 33 degree celsius whereas in winter it drops to below 16 degree celsius. The place also receives an average rainfall of about 367 mm every year. The best time to plan your trip to Belur, Karnataka is between October and March.

8 Marvellous Places To Visit In Belur

To make the most of your vacation to this ancient town in Karnataka, we have handpicked some of the best places to visit in Belur. Have a look!

  • Chennakesava Temple – Explore The Marvelous Beauty
  • Yagachi Dam – See The Majestic Architecture 
  • Halebidu – Land Of History
  • Doddagaddavalli – Ancient Gem 
  • Belavadi – 13th Century Marvel 
  • Kedareswara Temple – Chalukyan Temple
  • Archaeological Museum – Learn The Past 
  • Hoysaleswara Temple – Witness The Grandeur 

1. Chennakesava Temple – Explore The Marvelous Beauty

Chennakesava Temple View

Located just 500 meters from Belur Bus Station, this ancient temple is one of the finest testaments in the town. As per historians, it took around 100 years to complete this spectacular temple and completed in 1117 A.D. The entire facade of this holy shrine is intricately carved using soft soapstone with no space left blank. Festooned with exquisite carvings and artistic stone sculptures, Chennakesava Temple is one of the must visit places in Belur.

Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the protector of the universe, this imposing marvel was built by the great King Vishnuvardhana of Hoysala Dynasty. The temple boasts a grand 100 feet high gateway at the entrance and a six feet tall idol of Lord Vishnu placed inside the temple.

The unique 645 elephant carvings, sculptures of Madanakai damsels, carvings in Navarang, episodes of the Puranas, the Upanishads and the epics of the Ramayana and the Mahabharata are the major crowd pullers.

Location: Hassan District, Belur Timings: 7: 30 am to 6: 30 pm Entry Fee: NIL

Must Read: 15 Top Hill Stations In Karnataka To Rejuvenate Yourself

South Weekend Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle

tourist places in belur karnataka

Delightful South Weekend Tour 3D/2N Package @ Rs 4,999

Plan your trip today!

tourist places in belur karnataka

South Weekend Family Tour Package 3D/2N @ Rs 4,999

Get quotes from multiple travel experts.

tourist places in belur karnataka

Exciting South Weekend Tour 4D/3N @ Rs 6,999

Compare & customize quotes before booking.

tourist places in belur karnataka

South Weekend Tour 5D/4N Packages @ Rs 9,999

Have Questions? Talk to our travel experts today.

tourist places in belur karnataka

Enchanting South Weekend 5D/4N Packages @ Rs 12,999

Best prices guaranteed. EMI option available.

tourist places in belur karnataka

See more at TRAVELTRIANGLE.COM

2. Yagachi Dam – See The Majestic Architecture

Baoting

Surrounded by lush green landscape and blessed with a cool breeze in the evening, Yagachi Dam is an ideal weekend escape among the locals and tourists. The place is also one of the top places to visit in Belur for rejuvenating your body, mind and soul. The dam is built across River Yagachi, a tributary of the River Kaveri.

It is located just 10 km from the city center and 2.5 km from Belur Bus Stand. Constructed in 2001, Yagachi Dam is an earthen gravity dam standing tall at an altitude of 965 feet above sea level and have extensive dimensions of 26 meters in height and 1280 meters in length.

Recently, to attract more tourists flock in large numbers, Yagachi Water Adventure Sports Centre was established in the backwaters of the dam. Thrilling and exciting water sports activities like cruise boat, banana boat ride, kayaking, jet skiing and speed boat are some of the major highlights of this enticing tourist destination.

Address: Around 10 km from Belur City Center Timings: 7 am to 6:30 pm Entry Fee: NIL Activity Cost: Starts from INR 200

Suggested Read: Karnataka Cuisine: 22 Popular Karnataka Dishes For A Flavorful Culinary Journey

3. Halebidu – Land Of History

Halebidu In Belur

Belur-Halebidu go together like twin cities, as the distance between them is only 17 km. Regarded as one of the best places to visit in Belur karnataka, Halebidu once served as the royal capital of the great Hoysala Dynasty during the 12th century. The place is admired for its intricate Hoysala architecture, minute & intricate carvings, the detailed ornate temples, amazing sculptures with metal like polishing and much more.

Halebidu also called Dorasamudra or Dwarasamudra, is inclusive of two Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, two Jain basadis and an archeological museum in the temple complex, which are the major highlights. Built on a star shaped platform, the Hoysaleswara Temple was built during 1121 AD by King Vishnuvardhana. One can see the finest depictions from Hindu mythology, animals, birds and dancing figures on the walls of this temple.

Address: Situated around 17 km from Belur Timings: 7: 30 am to 6: 30 pm Entry Fee: NIL

Suggested Read: This Private Island Homestay In Karnataka Is A Treasure & You Won’t Doubt It!

4. Doddagaddavalli – Ancient Gem

Awesome Place

At a distance of 25 Kms from Belur, lies yet another popular destination called Doddagaddavalli. The famous crowd puller here is the gorgeous temple of Lakshmi Devi. A rare gem of architecture, this temple was built under the reign of King Vishnuvardhana during the 12th century. The temple is absolutely in pristine condition and can be spotted from the road that leads to Doddagaddavalli from Belur.

Lakshmi Devi Temple sits amidst lush green surroundings and is also accompanied by a shimmering water body, making it a must-visit place on the tourist’s itinerary. In the inner sanctum, you will find tall idols of Hindu deities – Lakshmi, Shiva, Vishnu and Kali.

Address: Situated 25 Kms from Belur Timings: 6:00 am to 8:00 pm Entry Fee: NIL

Suggested Read: 14 Itineraries Including Best Honeymoon Places In And Around Karnataka!

5. Belavadi – 13th Century Marvel

Belavadi In Belur

Only 27 km away from Belur, Belavadi makes an amazing getaway in Karnataka . It is mainly famous for the majestic Sri Veera Narayana Temple which is an important pilgrimage site for the devotees. The temple is built in the 13th century in Hoslaya style of architecture. The intricate carvings on the wall are a proof of it. According to a legend, this is where Bheema killed Bakasura to protect the villagers from the demon.

Location: Belavadi, Karnataka 577146 Timings: 8 AM – 7:30 PM Entry Fee: None

Suggested Read: 21 Historical Places In Karnataka Every History Buff Should Visit

6. Kedareswara Temple – Chalukyan Temple

Kedareshwara Temple

This is one of the famous temples located in Belur which is dedicated to Lord Shiva which is made of black stone. The architecture of the temple boasts a Chalukyan style of architecture which was built around the 1319 AD. Inside the temple there is a basement which features sculptural friezes depicting the story of Ramayana, Mahabharata and Bhagavad Gita. It’s amazing architecture makes it one of the best tourist places in Belur .

Location: Watehalla, Halebeedu, Karnataka 573121 Timings: 8AM-5:30PM

Suggested Read: 5 Best Places To Visit In Chikmagalur In May To Absorb The History Of Karnataka!

7. Archaeological Museum – Learn The Past

Archeological Museum

This is an open air museum located at Halebid which is a home to many sculptures, exhibits, inscriptions and many more things. All these display the Indian Art at various foreign exhibitions. Inside the museum one can witness a statue of Dancing Shiva, Nataraja and Veena Saraswati. Alongside that there is a beautiful bronze statue of Tirthankara.

Location: Halebeedu, Karnataka 573121 Timings: 9AM-5PM (Mon-Sun) Friday (Closed)

Suggested Read: 18 Places To Visit In Bidar To Admire The Beauty Of Karnataka!

8. Hoysaleswara Temple – Witness The Grandeur

Hoysaleswara Temple

The Hoysaleswara Temple or the Halebid Temple is a famous hindu temple which was built in the 12th century. Situated at the west of Dwarasamudra lake in Halebid, this is quite a magnificent temple which is considered a landmark of the Hoysala empire. Considered to be one of the best places to see in Belur , this temple is quite a significant monument which is dedicated to Lord Shiva in South India.

Time Required: 2-3 hours Timings: 6:30AM-9PM Entry Fee: No Entry Fee

Further Read: Ecotourism Found New Meaning As Karnataka Unveiled 30 Foot Tall Canopy Walk

Belur is a great vacation destination for travellers seeking a unique vacation beyond mountains and beaches. The ancient monuments, temples and holy shrines of Belur will teleport you back to several centuries, thus enriching the essence of your holiday. So, bag you bags and plan a remarkable trip to this land of culture and heritage. There is a lot to delight in for those who are in love with art, culture and architecture and of course photography.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions about Places to Visit in Belur

How many days are required to visit Belur?

If you wish to explore all the tourist places in Belur mentioned above, then you need at least 3 to 4 hours. There are plenty of renowned tourist hotspots as well nearby Belur like Shravanabelagola, Chikmagalur & Halebidu, demanding a few additional days to your trip.

What are some must-visit places & things to do while visiting Belur?

Chennakesava Temple, Yagachi Dam, and Narasimha Pillar are some of the must-visit places to visit in Belur.

What is the budget required to visit Belur?

Your budget for the Belur trip depends on lots of factors like the trip duration, the hotel you choose to stay and the transport mode you prefer.

What is the best season to visit Belur?

Winters i.e. October to March, when the weather is mild and pleasant, is considered to be the best time to explore the historical town of Belur.

How far is Chikmagalur from Belur?

Chikmagalur is only 25 km away from Belur. There are regular bus services from Belur to Chikmagalur.

Which of the famous temple is located at Belur?

The Chennakeshava Temple featuring an imposing six feet tall idol of Lord Vishnu in the inner sanctum and unique 645 elephant carvings and sculptures of Madanakai damsels is the most famous temple here and one of the top places to visit in Belur.

How far is Belur from Bangalore?

Belur is about 218 km from Bangalore by the road along with an aerial distance of 188 km. If you take a bus from Bangalore, then it takes around six hours to reach Belur.

Who built the Belur Temple?

The famous Chennakesava Temple (also called Belur Temple) was constructed by King Vishnuvardhan, a famous Hoysala ruler.

What is the old name of Belur?

Belur was once the capital of the Hoysala Dynasty during the 11th century and was known as Velapura or Velur.

How do I get from Belur to Mangalore?

Belur is around 154 km from Mangalore and there is no direct connectivity available between these two. One of the best ways of travelling from Belur to Mangalore is to hire a taxi from Belur to Sakleshpur and then board Karwar Express from Sakleshpur to Mangalore.

What is special in Belur?

Belur is famous for its showcasing of Hoysala architecture, especially the Chennakeshava Temple dedicated to Vishnu.

Looking To Book A Holiday Package?

tourist places in belur karnataka

Spellbinding Cochin Family Tour 2D/1N Package @ Rs 2,750

tourist places in belur karnataka

Himachal Family Tour Package 4D/3N @ Rs 8,750

tourist places in belur karnataka

Exciting Andaman Family Trip 5D/4N @ Rs 10,250

tourist places in belur karnataka

Gangtok & Darjeeling Tour Package 5D/4N @ Rs 13,000

tourist places in belur karnataka

Wonderful Goa Family Package 3D/2N @ Rs 6,500

Best prices guaranteed.

tourist places in belur karnataka

Riveting Rajasthan Vacation 3D/2N Package @ Rs 6,499

EMI option available.

tourist places in belur karnataka

Enchanting Uttarakhand Tour 4D/3N Package @ Rs 7,199

Explore best destinations with our experts.

Thrilling weekend full of fun.

tourist places in belur karnataka

Marvelous Gujarat Tour 3D/2N Package @ Rs 4,999

Talk to our experts today.

Recent Posts

tourist places in belur karnataka

12 Parcs aquatiques à Hyderabad pour profiter à nouveau de vos vacances d’été à l’ancienne en 2024

tourist places in belur karnataka

मज़ेदार छुट्टियों के लिए 2024 में 30 ओडिशा के पर्यटन स्थलों की यात्रा करें

tourist places in belur karnataka

2024 में गर्मियों की अद्भुत छुट्टियों के लिए 31 मई में भारत में घूमने की जगहें

Lieux touristiques en Inde du Sud pendant l’été

Visitez ces 26 lieux touristiques en sud de l’Inde pendant l’été 2024

7 merveilles du monde

7 Nouvelles merveilles du monde: édition 2024!

Best places to visit near delhi

5 Tourist Places Near Delhi Within 200 kms

Trending Blogs

tourist places in belur karnataka

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

tourist places in belur karnataka

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

tourist places in belur karnataka

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

Skiing In Krasnaya Polyana

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

a couple in front of taj mahal

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

Best honeymoon destinations in the world

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

  • TravelTriangle
  • Places To Visit »
  • Tour Packages
  • Honeymoon Packages
  • Family Packages
  • Budget Tour Packages
  • Luxury Tour Packages
  • Adventure Tour Packages
  • Group Tour Packages
  • Kerala Tour Packages
  • Goa Tour Packages
  • Andaman Tour Packages
  • Sikkim Tour Packages
  • Himachal Tour Packages
  • Uttarakhand Tour Packages
  • Rajasthan Tour Packages
  • Tour Packages From Delhi
  • Tour Packages From Mumbai
  • Tour Packages From Bangalore
  • Tour Packages From Chennai
  • Tour Packages From Kolkata
  • Tour Packages From Hyderabad
  • Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
  • Kerala Tourism
  • Goa Tourism
  • Sikkim Tourism
  • Andaman Tourism
  • Himachal Tourism
  • Uttarakhand Tourism
  • Rajasthan Tourism
  • Hotels in Kerala
  • Hotels in Goa
  • Hotels in Sikkim
  • Hotels in Andaman
  • Hotels in Himachal
  • Hotels in Uttarakhand
  • Hotels in Rajasthan

tourist places in belur karnataka

  • Group Enquiry? NEW

Places to Visit in Belur

  • Places To Visit

Here are some of the best places to visit in Belur -

Belavadi

Home to the famous Veer Narayan Temple that dates back to the 1200s, Belavadi is a place steeped in history and Hindu mythology. It is a sleepy little hamlet, which is an ideal contrast to the bustling city lanes. You won’t find many tourists here, which means you can explore the place in peace and to the fullest. Go for the rich architecture, the carvings, the shrines, and solitude. Highlights: It is also said to be the place, as mentioned in the Hindu epic Mahabharata, where Bhima defeated the demon Bakasura to protect the village. It may not be one of the most out-there tourist places in Belur, but it is definitely worth a visit, if only for the Veer Narayana Temple. Distance from Belur:  28 km

Chennakesava Temple

Chennakesava Temple

A fantastic model of the Hoysala architecture, the Chennakaseva Temple is an architectural marvel, built in the 12th century. Despite its grand history and popularity, this little wonder of Belur remains one of the lesser-visited sites in Karnataka. Highlights: The temple features a beautiful stepwell (Pushkarani), right near the entrance. This well was used in the olden days for taking a bath before offering prayers and other rituals, as was customary at the time. A 42-meter high pillar called the Gravity Pillar has also been installed in the middle of the courtyard. Not an ordinary pillar, this one does not have a foundation, implying that it stands by itself! This pillar is a testament to the marvellous design and architecture skills of the Hoysala. The temple is adorned with amazingly intricate carvings depicting scenes from the Mahabharata and Rayamana. You don’t want to miss that. Distance from Belur:  850 m

Madanikas

Yet another reason the Chennakaseva Temple is one of the most frequented tourist places in Belur - the Madanikas! Also known as Celestial Nymphs, the Madanikas are beautifully carved Bracket Figures that grace the walls of the temple. These structures are designed with utmost precision. Highlights: These Madanikas can be found depicting various forms and postures of Bharatanatyam, crafted to perfection! There are 42 of these Madanikas in the temple, four of which can be seen in the temple’s ceiling and reflect the true brilliance of the Hoysala designs. The remaining 38 figures dot the exterior of the temple, enriching the architectural beauty of the temple. Distance from Belur:  850 m

Doddagaddavalli

Doddagaddavalli

Located about 15 km away from Hassan, the quiet little village of Doddagaddavalli is one of the most offbeat places to visit in Belur. Doddagaddavalli is best known as the home of the Laksmidevi Temple, built by the Hoysalas in 1114 AD. Highlights: Shaded by lovely coconut plantations, the temple carries stark reflections of the era of King Vishnuvardhana, in whose rule the temple was erected. As is typical of the Hoysala architecture, the temple is built with soapstone and stands independent of a platform. This style of temple architecture was later incorporated into the following Hoysala structures. The highlight of the temple is the striking image of the goddess Lakshmi which stands in the Sanctorum. Shrines of Lakshmi, Shiv, Vishnu, and Kali can also be found in this temple. Distance from Belur:  24.2 km

Hoysala Mahotsava

Hoysala Mahotsava

Held annually in the month of March or April, the Hoysala Mahotsav is a grand celebration of the rich Indian culture and heritage. It is a stellar festival of dance, art, and music, hosted against the glorious architecture of the Hoysala temples of Halebidu and Belur. Highlights: An experience that is truly one of its kind, the festival marks the beginning of a new season and celebrates it with a divine combination of music, dance, and art. Artists, both old and young, from all over the country flock to Halebidu every year to be a part of this epic festival. This commemorative festival is held to honour the military achievements of the Hoysala King, and is a prestigious event for Hindus. There is also a great feast that follows the dance gala! If you’re a connoisseur of the various forms of art and dance, this festival is a must-see! Distance from Belur:  Haledidu sits about 17 km away from Belur.

Paathaaleshwara Temple

Paathaaleshwara Temple

The Paathaaleshwara Temple may not be one of the most renown tourist places in Belur, but don’t let that fool you. Highlights: If you’re an admirer of everything rustic, historic, and raw, you will not want to miss a trip to this understated little wonder. Marked by ancient jet-black Hoysala pillars, the temple is set amidst dense bushes and stands in near ruins- a truly poetic setting. Explore the halls of the temple and you can spot the characteristics of the Hoysala architecture staring right back at you. Distance from Belur:  650 meters

Yagachi Dam

Yagachi Dam

Yagachi Dam is an earthen gravity dam, built over Yagachi river, one of the tributaries of Kaveri. One of the most popular spots for water sports in Karnataka, the dam is situated at a height of 965 feet above sea level, and is 1,280 meters long. Highlights: Shaded from the constant hustle and bustle of the busy streets, Yagachi dam is also a great place to delve into some water-sports and adventure! Get your adrenaline pumping by indulging in activities like speed boating, kayaking, jet-skiing, and many more! While it may be one of the most famous tourist places in Belur, a quiet evening sojourn to Yagachi, especially during sunset, promises to restore your spirits! Distance from Belur:  2.5 km

Halebidu

Halebidu is a historically and culturally rich town, cocooned in the Hassan District of Karnataka. What was once, in the 12th century, the regal capital of the Hoysala kingdom, is now home of the architectural splendours of that era. Highlights: The town harbours a beautiful collection of temples and shrines, of which the Hoysaleshwara and Kedareshwara temples are the most iconic. The once-grand town is now mostly in ruins, but it still retains a lot of the history. All one needs to do is explore a little to unfold the pages of history itself. To say that it is just another one of the famous tourist places in Belur would be an understatement. A visit to Halebidu is as good as taking a trip back in time, to the Hoysala era! Distance from Belur:  17 km

Narasimha Pillar

Narasimha Pillar

One of the most magnificent creations and designs of the Hoysala era, the Narasimha Pillar is a stone pillar looming at a height of 30 feet. This pillar, crafted out of soapstone, is situated inside the complex of the famous Chennakesava Temple. Amongst the fifty different pillars located inside the temple, the Narasimha Pillar is something of an artistic marvel. It carries, in a miniature form, all the unique architectural features of the temple. You can spot all the sculptures of the temple carved onto this pillar, too. The Narasimha Pillar is another thing that makes the Chennakaseva Temple one of the most fascinating places to visit in Belur! Highlights: Amongst the fifty different pillars located inside the temple, the Narasimha Pillar is something of an artistic marvel. It carries, in a miniature form, all the unique architectural features of the temple. You can spot all the sculptures of the temple carved onto this pillar, too. The Narasimha Pillar is another thing that makes the Chennakaseva Temple one of the most fascinating places to visit in Belur! Distance from Belur:  850 m

Shantaleswara Temple

Shantaleswara Temple

Another brilliant creation of the Hoysala, the 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, and has two identical temples inside the complex, known as Shantaleshwara and Hoysaleshwara. Highlights: The temple is named after Queen Shantaladevi, wife of King Vishnuvaradhana Hoysala, both of whom are known to have been enshrined in the temple. One of the most striking characteristics of the temple is that its basal structure of the temple resembles a star! Besides that, each temple is enriched by intricate carvings playing out various significant stories from Hindu mythology. If you appreciate architecture, the Shanatleshwara temple is a no-miss for you! Distance from Belur:  Shantaleswara Temple is located 17 km away from Belur.

Popular Nearby Places Around Belur

Best domestic packages, best international packages, domestic honeymoon packages, international honeymoon packages, places to visit in india, international places to visit, things to do in india, international things to do, popular on thrillophilia.

  • We assure the privacy of your contact data.
  • This data will only be used by our team to contact you and no other purposes.

Your enquiry has been received successfully. Our destination expert will reach out to you soon!

Savaari Car Rentals

Savaari Car Rentals Blog

Travel begins with Savaari

Things to Do in Belur Halebeedu – A complete travel guide

Welcome to the enchanting world of Belur and Halebidu, two hidden treasures nestled in the heart of Karnataka. This travel guide is your key to unlocking the secrets of these ancient towns, known for their awe-inspiring temples and rich historical significance. Belur and Halebidu, both belonging to the Hoysala dynasty, boast architectural wonders that have stood the test of time. Immerse yourself in the intricate carvings, marvel at the craftsmanship, and unravel the fascinating stories behind these magnificent structures. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or a spiritual seeker, Belur and Halebidu promise a captivating journey through time. We recommend booking a cab from Bangalore to Belur and experience this magnificent monuments comfortably.

tourist places in belur karnataka

Table of Contents

  • Temples that are important
  • Places to visit
  • Things to shop
  • Places to eat
  • Architecture
  • How to reach
  • Best time to visit
  • Importance of guide
  • Timings and Entry Fees
  • Places to stay

Things to Do around Belur and Halebidu

Baba-budan-hills

  • Trek the Baba Budan Hills in Chikmagalur.
  • Visit the Nageshwara, Chennakeshava temple complex in Mosale. This is at a distance of around 13 km from Belur.
  • During March and April, attend the grand festival of music and dance called Hoysalamahotsava . 
  • Tour Belavadi which is at a distance of around 30 km from Belur. It is believed that Bhima of the epic Mahabharata killed Bakasura at this location.
  • Visit the archaeological museum in Halebidu.  

Hire a Car Rental in Belur and explore these hidden gems for a great trip with your family and friends .

Temples in Belur

Things-to-do-in-belur-halebidu

Belur is known as Vaikuntha or Paradise on earth . There are many temples in this culturally rich town.

Chennakesava Temple

Dedicated to Lord Vijayanarayana, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, this temple was built by King Vishnuvardhana to commemorate the victory of Hoysalas over the Cholas in the Talakkad Battle. The Belur Chennakeshava temple has exquisite carvings displaying scenes from epics like the Mahabharata, Ramayana, etc.

Kappe Chennigaraya Temple

This is a small shrine located at the south end of the main Chenna Kesava Temple. It has a resemblance to the main temple and is dedicated to Kappe (frog) Chennigaraya.

Veeranarayana Temple, Belavadi

This temple is located at the west end of the Chenna Kesava Temple. It is dedicated to Veeranarayana or Lakshmi Narayana. 

Temples in Halebidu

Halebidu, also known as Dwarasamudra , was the capital city of the Hoysalas. This place is famous for the temples built during the Hoysala rule.

Hoysaleswara temple

The Hoysaleswara Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and was built in the 12th century. It stands on the banks of the Dwarasamudra Lake in Halebidu. This is the most significant monument dedicated to Lord Shiva in South India. The Hoysaleswara Temple was designed by the famous Shilpkar Kedoraja with beautiful wall sculptures depicting stories of different gods and Hoysala soldiers. The temple has two shrines – one dedicated to Hoysaleswara and the other to Shantaleswara (or Shantala Devi, the queen of King Vishnuvardhana).

Basadi Halli

At a short walk from the Hoysaleswara Temple is a group of three Jain shrines called Basadi Halli. The shrines are the Parswanathaswamy temple, Adinathaswamy temple, and the Shanthinathaswamy temple. They are famous for the pillars that are polished so well that they resemble mirrors.

Kedareshwara Temple

This is another temple in Halebidu dedicated to Lord Shiva depicted in the form of Shivalinga of Krishnashikla, a black stone. The temple was built in 1319 AD using Chalukyan-style architecture. In the basement of the structure, you can find sculptured friezes depicting stories from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, etc.

Places to visit in Belur and Halebidu

tourist places in belur karnataka

1. Chenna Kesava Temple

The most popular temple in Belur is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The Chennakeshava temple in Belur known for its intricate carvings made using soft stone called chloritic schist. There is a Gravity Pillar in the middle of the courtyard. It is 42 meters tall and stands without any additional foundation – a testament to the Belur temple architectural skills of the Hoysala. 

Best Time to Visit Chenna Kesava Temple

The best time to visit the Chenna Kaseva Temple is during the winter months from October to March.

How to reach Chenna Kesava Temple

You can reach the Chenna Kesava Temple by following the NH73 and then taking the Temple Road. It is around 3 km from the Belur Bus Depot.

2. Doddagaddavalli

Doddagaddavalli

The village of Doddagaddavalli is popular as the home of the 1114 AD-built Laksmidevi Temple . The temple has clear reflections of the rule of King Vishnuvardana. It is built using soapstone and stands independently of a platform.  There are shrines of Lakshmi, Shiva, Vishnu, and Kali in the temple.

[Must read: 10 unique temples in India ]

Best Time to Visit Doddagaddavalli

The best time to visit Doddagaddavalli is from the winter months, from October to March.

How to reach Doddagaddavalli

Doddagaddavalli is located at a distance of around 25 km from Belur.

Things to shop in Belur and Halebidu

The temple towns are well-known for carvings of artefacts and small statues made by locals. You can buy them outside most temples.

Best Place to Eat in Belur and Halebidu

tourist places in belur karnataka

Here are some places to eat in Belur and Halebidu:

  • Shahi Chicken Kabab, Near Belur Bus Stand – for finger-licking kebabs
  • Hotel Samanvi International, Temple Road – for Indian food and a great place to hang out
  • Lassi Pluss, Temple Road – for lassi, juices, and fresh fruits
  • Indian Coffee House, Temple Road – Indian food and a collection of delicious coffee

About Belur and Halebidu

tourist places in belur karnataka

The towns of Belur and Halebidu are located in the Hassan district of Karnataka. These twin cities are around 17 km apart and together are the most popular tourist destinations in South India. These cities were home to the Hoysala dynasty for three centuries. The temples are cut from chloritic schist – a soft stone allowing for intricately carved temple walls.  

Belur and Halebidu in Karnataka have a fascinating history dating back to the 12th century as the capital of the Hoysala Empire. The towns flourished as centers of art, culture, and religion, and their magnificent temples, like the Chennakeshava Temple and Hoysaleswara Temple, showcase the intricate carvings and craftsmanship of the Hoysala dynasty. Despite the rise and fall of dynasties, Belur and Halebidu’s architectural wonders have endured, captivating visitors with their timeless beauty. Today, these UNESCO World Heritage Sites provide a glimpse into Karnataka’s glorious past and the architectural prowess of the Hoysala Empire.

Belur and Halebidu, two historical towns in Karnataka, are filled with intriguing facts that add to their allure. Here are some interesting facts about Belur and Halebidu:

  • Belur and Halebidu feature exquisite examples of Hoysala architecture.
  • The Chennakeshava Temple in Belur took over a hundred years to complete.
  • The temples in Belur and Halebidu were constructed using soapstone.
  • The Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu showcases stunning sculptural work.
  • The Kedareshwara Temple in Halebidu has a unique stepped pyramid-like structure.
  • The Veeranarayana Temple in Belur depicts intricate sculptures and carvings.
  • Belur and Halebidu were once flourishing capitals of the Hoysala Empire.
  • The temples have undergone extensive restoration and preservation efforts.
  • Belur and Halebidu are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • Visitors can enjoy a mesmerizing sound and light show at the Hoysaleswara Temple complex.=-

Architectural Splendour of the Belur and Halebidu Temples

The iconic temple architecture offers a glimpse of peak South Indian style-temple architecture during the 12th century. The Hoysala architects created a better version of the Chalukyan style of architecture by creating temples that were extremely ornate. In fact, they built several temples across Karnataka that are still known for wall sculptures, carved pillars etc.  The sculptures of these temples reflect the tradition of sandalwood and ivory handwork. In fact, the intricacy of the carvings can be compared only to the Khajuraho temples. The engineering techniques used to build the temple are also interesting.

How to Plan a Trip to Belur and Halebidu

How to reach from bangalore.

Most tourists travel to Belur-Halebeedu from Bangalore. Here is how you can reach these towns:

Belur and Halebidu do not have a railway stations. Hassan is the nearest railway station at a distance of around 40 km from Belur. Halebidu is a little closer, with the distance being only 32 km. There are around 79 trains from Bangalore to Hassan. The fastest train is the Yeshwantpur – Danapur One Trip Summer Special (via Ballari) which takes around two hours. Once you reach the Hassan Railway Station, you can book a taxi from Hassan.

The distance by road from Bangalore to Halebidu is around 210 km via NH75 . You can drive or book a cab from Bangalore and enjoy the scenic road trip.

There is no airport in Belur or Halebidu. Bangalore, Mysore, and Mangalore are the three closest airports to these twin towns. You can book a Bangalore airport to Belur taxi to reach this religious place with ease.

tourist places in belur karnataka

How to Reach Belur and Halebidu from Mysore

Belur and Halebidu are at a similar distance from Mysore. Here are different ways in which you can reach Belur and Halebidu from Bangalore:

Belur and Halebidu do not have a railway stations. Hassan is the nearest railway station at a distance of around 40 km from Belur. Halebidu is a little closer, with the distance being only 32 km. There are around 17 trains from Mysore to Hassan. The fastest train is the Mysuru – Talguppa Intercity Express which takes around two hours. Once you reach the Hassan Railway Station, you can book a taxi from Hassan to Belur or Halebidu.

The distance by road from Mysore to Belur and Halebidu is around 140-150 km via the Mysore-Hassan Road. You can drive or hire a chauffeur-driven Mysore to Belur and Halebidu taxi and enjoy the journey.

There is no airport in Belur and Halebidu. Bangalore, Mysore, and Mangalore are the three closest airports to these twin towns. You can book a Mysore airport taxi to reach Belur and Halebidu.

How to Reach Belur and Halebidu from Mangalore

Belur is closer to Mangalore than Halebidu. Here are different ways in which you can reach Belur and Halebidu from Mangalore:

Belur and Halebidu do not have a railway stations. Hassan is the nearest railway station at a distance of around 40 km from Belur. Halebidu is a little closer, with the distance being only 32 km. There are around 13 trains from Mangalore to Hassan. The fastest train is the Karwar – Yesvantpur Express (via Mangaluru) which takes around 5 hours and 15 minutes. Once you reach the Hassan Railway Station, you can book a taxi from Hassan to Belur or Halebidu.

The distance by road from Mangalore to Belur is around 155 km via NH73. You can drive or hire a Mangalore to Belur taxi and enjoy the journey.

There is no airport in Belur or Halebidu. Bangalore, Mysore, and Mangalore are the three closest airports to these twin towns. You can book a Mangalore airport taxi to reach Belur and Halebidu.

What is the best time to visit Belur and Halebidu temples

The best times to visit Belur and Halebidu temples are from October to March. The temperatures during these months range between 22 and 31 degrees C. During the summer months of March to June, the temperatures can rise to 40 degrees C. While the temples look clean and fresh after monsoon rains, the downpour can disrupt your travel plans.

Importance of a Guide during your Visit

  • Every sculpture in a Belur Halebidu temple has a mythological story. Without a guide, you will not be able to appreciate the significance of each sculpture.
  • Although you can read about it online, a local guide can take you through the temples, explaining every bit in great detail .
  • If you don’t know the local language , then it is important to ensure that you find a guide who knows your language.
  • A knowledgeable Belur Halebidu temple guide can help you relive the bygone era and create memories for years to come.

Belur and Halebidu Timings and Entry Fees

The Chenna Kesava Temple at Belur is open from 7.30 AM to 8 PM on all days of the week. There is no entry fee. 

Best Places to Stay in Belur and Halebidu

Here are some places to stay in Belur and Halebidu:

  • KSTDC Hotel Mayura Velapuri Belur, Temple Road
  • KSTDC Hotel Mayura Yagachi, Chickamangaluru Road
  • KSTDC Hotel Mayura Shantala Halebeedu
  • Berry Blossom, Ballavara Village
  • CoffeeBean Villa, Bangalore-Mangalore Highway

For more such  places to visit near Bangalore , you can read our elaborate travel guide.

Last Updated on February 2, 2024 by Swati Deol

Hoysala Heritage in Hard Stone - Things to do in Belur Halebeedu

About the author

Related posts.

tourist places in belur karnataka

Things to do in Mahabaleshwar – A complete travel guide

tourist places in belur karnataka

Things To Do In Varanasi – A Complete Travel Guide

tourist places in belur karnataka

Things to do in Ayodhya – A complete travel guide

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Explore Belur

tourist places in belur karnataka

Plan Your Trip to Belur: Best of Belur Tourism

tourist places in belur karnataka

Find flight deals to Belur

Essential belur.

tourist places in belur karnataka

tourist places in belur karnataka

Select city

Other Cities

  • 11 Most Beautiful Mosques in India that You Must Visit 🕌
  • 8 Temples Praised for their Unique Architecture in India 🛕
  • 10 Places to Visit in India for The History Aficionados
  • Why is Choosing a Car Rental Service from Revv a Prudent Idea?
  • Unexplored Places in Uttarakhand that You must Plan a Road Trip to

tourist places in belur karnataka

Official Blog of Revv Self Drive Cars

tourist places in belur karnataka

Visit the Captivating Belur and Enchanting Halebidu

India is a country that is filled with endless wonder in every single part of it. One of the best ways to experience this is by visiting the magnificent state of Karnataka, which is famous for sights such as Bangalore, Hampi, Mysuru, Wayanad, Madikeri, Nagarhole National Park, Gokarna, Kodagu, Srirangapatna, and Belur.

Belur is one of the most beautiful places you can visit in the state of Karnataka, which is famous all over the world for the unique and mesmerizing architectural wonders. Going on a 220 kilometers road trip to Belur from the state capital Bangalore is one of the popular recreational trips for Bangalore residents. The small town that has been affectionately called “Dakshina Banaras” is located on the bank of the Yagachi River. It is also a prominent pilgrim site that is visited by many Hindus every year, who come not only come for religious reasons but also to see the beautiful places to visit in Belur and Halebid. The best time to visit Belur is during the winter months of October to March.

Book self drive car rental

8 Best places to visit in Belur with pictures

  • Yagachi Dam
  • Doddagaddavalli
  • Chennakesava Temple
  • Kedareswara Temple
  • Archaeological Museum
  • Ermai Waterfall

1. Yagachi Dam

Yagachi Dam

Yagachi Dam is one of the best places to visit in Belur. You can see the lush green landscape all around the Dam and feel the cool breeze in the evening. The place is visited both by tourists as well as locals. In the backwaters of this Dam, Yagachi Water Adventure Sports Center was established so that more people visit this place. Water sports such as kayaking, banana boat ride, jet skiing, cruise boat, and speed boat are available here.

Timings: 7 am to 6:30 pm

2. Halebidu

Belur and Halebidu

The distance between Belur and Halebidu is just 17 km; thus, these two are called twin cities. Halebidu is known for housing intricate Hoysala architecture and carvings. There are several temples and sculptures that you can see in this town. The Hoysaleswara Temple, built in 1121 AD, is one of the major attractions here. The temple complex is inclusive of two Jain basadis, two Hindu temples that are dedicated to Lord Shiva, and one archaeological museum.

Timings: 7: 30 am to 6: 30 pm

Book self drive car rental

3. Doddagaddavalli

tourist places in belur karnataka

It is one of the famous tourist attractions located very close to Belur. People from across the state of Karnataka visit this place to witness the beautiful Lakshmi Temple. Built during the 12th century under the rule of King Vishnuvardhana, this temple has earned fame for its architecture. Apart from this temple, the surrounding area is also looks one of a kind because of the lush greenery and the gorgeous water body.

Timings: 6 am to 8 pm

4. Belavadi

tourist places in belur karnataka

Belavadi is another place that you can visit near Belur. The destination is mostly known for the Sri Veera Narayana Temple. This temple is visited by devotees and tourists from across the state and even the country. Believing the legends, Bakasura was killed by Bheema here so that the villagers can be saved from the demon.

Timings: 8 am to 7.30 pm

5. Chennakesava Temple

Chennakesava Temple

One of the interesting facts about this temple is the number of years it took for this temple to get completed. Completed in 1117 AD, it took 100 years to complete this temple. This is an extremely beautiful temple with intricate carvings and artistic stone sculptures. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. As you enter the temple, you can find a 100 feet high gateway right at the entrance; and inside the temple, there is a 6-feet tall idol of Lord Vishnu. The other things to witness here include 645 elephant carvings, carvings in Navarang, sculptures of Madanakai damsels, episodes from the Puranas, the Upanishads; last but not the least, the epics of the Ramayana as well as the Mahabharata.

Timings: 7.30 am to 6.30 pm

6. Kedareswara Temple

Kedareswara Temple

One of the interesting things to do in Belur, especially for the history buffs is visiting the Kedareswara Temple.  The temple was built in 1319 AD. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and the idol is made in Black stone. The architecture of the temple is in Chalukyan style. In the basement of the temple, you can find sculptural friezes which depict the story of the Mahabharata, the Ramayana, and the Bhagavad Gita.

Timings: 8 am to 5.30 pm

7. Archaeological Museum

Archaeological Museum

This is an amazing open-air museum, located in Halebid. You can find several sculptures, inscriptions, exhibits, etc. here. You can also witness the statue of Dancing Shiva, Nataraja, Veena Saraswati, and the bronze statue of Tirthankara.

Timings: 9 am to 5 pm (Friday remains closed)

Book self drive car rental

8. Ermai Waterfall

ermli waterfalls

Ermai waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls near Belur. Apart from watching the water cascading from the height, Ermai Waterfall is also a great destination for trekkers. While trekking around here, you can witness the beautiful places that surround this waterfall. 

Timings: NA

To visit all these attractions, you can choose a self-drive car in Belur. You can visit the website or app of Revv to book a car rental in Belur. The app can easily be found in Google Play Store or iOS App Store, and super user-friendly. Choosing this option will not only make your trip easier but you will also be able to save a lot of money. Moreover, you can choose the car of your choice. Now, all that you need to do is to install the app and book which you can use for the trip and even after that, for as many days as you want.

  • ← Why Everyone Wants a Hyundai Car Subscription in India
  • Otherworldly Destinations in India to Explore and Enjoy Hot Springs →

You May Also Like

tourist places in belur karnataka

Road Trips to Destinations in India That have Opened for Vaccinated Travelers

best places to visit in tirupati

9 Best Places to Visit in Tirupati for Peace, Spirituality, and Relaxation

Rock Garden, Chandigarh

Experience Indian Rock Gardens during Winter Through Fabulous Road Trips

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

tourist places in belur karnataka

The official blog of Revv Self Drive Car Rental, was started in November of 2019 with the aim to make leisure travel easy & accessible. The blog covers places to visit in India, new trends in the car rental industry & most importantly how to make your travel/roadtrip easy & memorable.

India’s fastest growing self-drive car rental company with different options to meet all your self-drive needs – Hourly Rental, Annual car subscriptions, Monthly car subscriptions, Hyundai Subscription (annual and monthly subscriptions for Hyundai cars) and Mahindra Subscription (annual and monthly subscriptions for Mahindra cars). Enjoy unique features – Prices with or without fuel, Flexibility to choose different delivery & return locations within same city and Unlimited KMs option. Book online and drive it like your own car!

Spread across 22 cities – Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai, Pune, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Mangalore, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Vizag, Kochi, Coimbatore, Mysore, Tirupati, Vijayawada, Trivandrum, Surat, Vadodara, Bhubaneswar & Nagpur.

Places To Visit In Belur

8 Places To Visit In Belur

Belur is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Karnataka. It is known all over the world for its amazing and unique buildings. 

One of the perfect ways to spend a day off for people who live in the state capital, Bangalore , is to drive 220 kilometers to Belur. On the bank of the Yagachi River is a small town called “Dakshina Banaras.”

It is also a famous Hindu pilgrimage site that many Hindus visit yearly for religious reasons and to see the beautiful places in Belur and Halebid. The best time to go to Belur is from October to March, which is winter.

1. Chennakesava Temple

tourist places in belur karnataka

This old temple is just 500 meters from the Belur Bus Station and is one of the best places to see in town. Historians say this majestic temple built in 1117 A.D., after 100 years.

The whole front of this holy shrine carved out of soft soapstone in a very detailed way. One of the best place to visit in Belur is the Chennakesava Temple, full of beautiful carvings and stone sculptures. 

The great King Vishnuvardhana of the Hoysala Dynasty built this impressive building. It is a temple to Lord Vishnu, the universe’s protector. 

The entrance to the temple is a grand 100-foot-tall gateway, and inside the temple is a Lord Vishnu statue that is 6 feet tall. Most visitors see the 645 elephant carvings, Madanakai damsels, Navarang carvings, and scenes from the Puranas, Upanishads, Ramayana, and Mahabharata epics.

2. Yagachi Dam – Places To Visit In Belur

tourist places in belur karnataka

Yagachi Dam is an excellent place for locals and tourists to go on the weekend because it has a lot of greenery and nice evening air. It’s also one of the best places in Belur to get your body, mind, and soul back in shape. 

The dam is built on the River Yagachi, which flows into the River Kaveri. It’s only 10 km from the city’s center and 2.5 km from the Belur Bus Stand. 

Yagachi Dam is a gravity dam made of earth. It was built in 2001 and stands 26 meters tall and 1280 meters long. 

It is 965 feet above sea level. In addition, the Yagachi Water Adventure Sports Center built in the dam’s backwaters to attract people.

The thrilling and exciting water sports like cruise boats, banana boat rides, kayaking, jet skiing, and speed boats are some of the best things about this fascinating place.

3. Halebidu

tourist places in belur karnataka

Since they are only 17 kilometers apart, Belur and Halebidu are like twin cities. Therefore, Halebidu consider one of the best places in Belur, Karnataka. 

In the 12th century, it was the royal capital of the lavish Hoysala Dynasty. People like the intricate Hoysala architecture, the detailed temples, the unique sculptures that look polished with metal, and much more. 

Halebidu, also called Dorasamudra or Dwarasamudra, has two Hindu shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, two Jain basadis, and an archeological museum. These are the main attractions of the temple complex. 

King Vishnuvardhana erected Hoysaleswara Temple on a star-shaped platform in 1121 AD. This temple has outstanding Hindu mythological artwork of animals, birds, and dancers.

4. Doddagaddavalli – Places To Visit In Belur

tourist places in belur karnataka

Doddagaddavalli, 25 kilometers from Belur, is another popular place to visit. The beautiful temple of Lakshmi Devi is what brings most people here. 

This temple built in the 12th century by King Vishnuvardhana. It is a rare piece of architecture. 

The temple is in perfect shape, and you can see it from the road from Belur to Doddagaddavalli. 

The Lakshmi Devi Temple surrounded by lush greenery and a sparkling body of water, making it a must-see for tourists. There are tall statues of the Hindu gods Lakshmi, Shiva, Vishnu, and Kali in the inner sanctum.

5. Belavadi

tourist places in belur karnataka

Belavadi, located only 27 kilometers from Belur, is an excellent Karnataka getaway. It is mainly known for the beautiful Sri Veera Narayana Temple, a place of worship for many people. 

The Hoslaya style was used to build the temple in the 13th century. The intricate carvings on the wall are proof of this. 

A myth says that Bheema killed Bakasura here to keep the villagers safe from the demon.

6. Kedareswara Temple

tourist places in belur karnataka

This is one of the most well-known temples in Belur. It is made out of black stone and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. 

The temple was built in the Chalukyan style around 1319 AD. In the temple’s basement, some sculptures show scenes from the stories of Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Bhagavad Gita. 

7. Archaeological Museum

tourist places in belur karnataka

This open-air Museum in Halebid has many sculptures, displays, inscriptions, and other things. All of these show Indian art at different shows in other countries. 

A statue of Dancing Shiva, Nataraja, and Veena Saraswati can see inside the Museum. A beautiful bronze statue of Tirthankara stands next to it.

8. Hoysaleswara Temple

tourist places in belur karnataka

The famous Hindu temple Hoysaleswara Temple, also called Halebid Temple, was built in the 1100s. This beautiful temple is in Halebid, west of the Dwarasamudra lake. 

It is known as a landmark of the Hoysala Empire. This temple, which is in South India and dedicated to Lord Shiva, consider one of the best places to visit in Belur.

In conclusion, Belur is a place of immense beauty and culture. From the old temples to the lush green countryside, there is something for everyone to enjoy. 

Whether you’re looking for spiritual enlightenment or simply a peaceful getaway, Belur has something to offer. With its incredible visuals, historical significance, and vibrant atmosphere, it is one destination that should be on everyone’s “must-visit” list. 

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Belur holiday today!

Nayana

Nayana is passionate about discovering the most magnificent places to visit in India ! She also loves to uncover the most incredible sights and capture her experiences in her writing through  TouristPanda.com .

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Tusk Travel Blog

5 Best Places to Visit in Belur, Karnataka

Tusk Travel Team

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 kilometres 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 This Article:

In Belur, Karnataka, the following attractions are the most popular:

1. chennakesava temple.

Chennakesava Temple Belur, Karnataka

The Belur Bus Station is around 500 metres 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.

2. Halebidu

Halebidu Belur Karnataka

Halebidu is in the Hassan district of Karnataka and is 17 kilometres from Belur, 32 kilometres from Hassan, 34 kilometres from Chikmagalur, 148 kilometres from Mysore , and 211 kilometres 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.

  • 6 Nights 7 Days Karnataka Trip
  • Karnataka & Kerala Tour 8 Days
  • Mysore Ooty Kodaikanal 6 Days Package
  • Karnataka & North Kerala Travel
  • 4 Days Mysore & Coorg Itinerary
  • Click the More Packages for Karnataka

3. Archaeological Museum

Archaeological Museum Halebid Belur Karnataka

Several sculptures, displays, inscriptions, and other artefacts 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.

4. Belavadi

Sri Veera Narayana Temple Belavadi Belur Karnataka

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.

5. Hoysaleswara Temple

Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu, Karnataka

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.

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

Tusk Travel Team

Tusk Travel Team

Tusk Travel is dedicated to delivering precise, genuine, and reliable travel guides through a dynamic team of writers, editors, and destination experts. We aim to provide comprehensive information in its simplest form, sharing insights to influence perspectives nationwide.

Related Posts

Virupaksha Temple, Hampi, Karnataka

Virupaksha Temple, Hampi, Karnataka: History, How to Reach, Nearby Attractions

Kotilingeshwara Temple Kammasandra Village

15 Famous Religious Places Near Bangalore

Shivoham Shiva Temple, Bangalore

Shivoham Shiva Temple Bangalore: Attractions, Entry Ticket, How to Reach, Special Darshan Details

Bandipur National Park Karnataka

10 Best Places to Visit in Karnataka in April 2024

tourist places in belur karnataka

7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Karnataka

Kasivisvesvara Temple, Lakkundi, Karnataka

Exploring the Wonders Near Badami: Top 10 Must-Visit Destinations

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Name  *

Email  *

Add Comment  *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Post Comment

THE 10 BEST Belur Tours & Excursions

Belur tours.

  • Cultural Tours
  • Historical & Heritage Tours
  • Sightseeing Tours
  • Private Tours
  • Multi-day Tours
  • Archaeology Tours
  • Motorcycle Tours
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Special Offers
  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

tourist places in belur karnataka

1. World heritage site of Belur & Halebid with temple sculptures

tourist places in belur karnataka

2. Explore World Heritage Sites Belur & Halebidu + Shravanabelagola

tourist places in belur karnataka

3. Belur and Halebidu From Bangalore

tourist places in belur karnataka

4. Belur and Halebidu Private Day Tour with Guide,Entrances & AC Car

tourist places in belur karnataka

5. Opulent Mysore And Temples Of South India- Three Night Excursion From Bangalore

tourist places in belur karnataka

6. 2 day Motorcycle tour from Bangalore to Belur, Halebid & Shravanabelagola

tourist places in belur karnataka

7. Shore & Cities of Karnataka

tourist places in belur karnataka

8. Hubli to Hampi, Belur, Halebedu & Bangalore Tour

tourist places in belur karnataka

9. 12 Day The Southern Feast, Karnataka and Goa Private Guided Tour

tourist places in belur karnataka

10. Hubli to Badami, Hampi, Belur, Halebedu, Mysore & Bangalore Tour

tourist places in belur karnataka

11. Bangalore to Belur and Halebid

tourist places in belur karnataka

12. Architecture with Beach & Hills Bangalore to Mumbai

tourist places in belur karnataka

13. Hubli to Hampi, Belur, Halebedu, Mysore & Bangalore Tour

tourist places in belur karnataka

14. Belur and Halebeedu Heritage Trail from Mangalore

tourist places in belur karnataka

15. Tigers, Hills and Temples of Karnataka

tourist places in belur karnataka

16. The Historic Trail of the Southern Region

tourist places in belur karnataka

17. Hubli to Badami, Hampi, Belur, Halebedu & Bangalore Tour

tourist places in belur karnataka

18. Heritage Trip to Belur and Halebid

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

tourist places in belur karnataka

Private Mercara Coorg Coffee and Spice Estate Tour

tourist places in belur karnataka

Heritage & Cultural Trails of Coorg (2 Hours Guided Walking Tour)

tourist places in belur karnataka

Tree Top Adventure

tourist places in belur karnataka

Classic Coorg Coffee Plantation experience

tourist places in belur karnataka

High Ropes Course in Madikeri

tourist places in belur karnataka

Nature & Spiritual Trails of Coorg (2 Hours Guided Walking Tour)

tourist places in belur karnataka

Photoshoot in Coorg By Professional Photographer

tourist places in belur karnataka

Date Night in Madikeri

tourist places in belur karnataka

Half Day Guided Trek

tourist places in belur karnataka

Private Coorg Cycling Tour

tourist places in belur karnataka

Five Farms Coffee-Farm to Cup Journey

tourist places in belur karnataka

Advenutre Camping Trip in Karnataka

What travelers are saying.

Arun P

  • World heritage site of Belur & Halebid with temple sculptures
  • Explore World Heritage Sites Belur & Halebidu + Shravanabelagola
  • Belur and Halebidu From Bangalore
  • Hubli to Badami, Hampi, Belur, Halebedu, Mysore & Bangalore Tour
  • Architecture with Beach & Hills Bangalore to Mumbai

Belur: Tours Information

tourist places in belur karnataka

Belur Tourism and Travel Guide

Trips and itineraries for belur.

Photo of All In An Album – Be

Top Places To Visit in Belur

Photo of Chennakesava Temple

Weekend Getaways from Belur

Photo of Bangalore

tourist places in belur karnataka

  • Tour Enquiry
  • Sign up | Login
  • My Bookings
  • New User? Sign-up
  • Domestic Tours
  • South India
  • Maharashtra
  • Golden Triangle
  • North India
  • North East India
  • International
  • Maldives (Discontinued)
  • All Domestic Tours
  • All International Tours
  • Offbeat Tours
  • Domestic Cruise Tours
  • Jungle Lodges by JLR
  • Kabini River Lodge
  • Bandipur Safari Lodge
  • JLR Kings Sanctuary
  • River Tern Lodge
  • Kali Adventure Camp
  • Hampi Heritage & Wilderness Resort
  • K Gudi Wilderness Camp
  • Car Rentals
  • Destinations
  • Tourist Places on Drive
  • Driving Directions
  • * Workation
  • * Tour Plans
  • List Property

BELUR TOURISM | TOURIST PLACES TO VISIT & TEMPLES IN BELURU

tourist places in belur karnataka

  • Belur Overview
  • Top 8 Places to Visit in Belur
  • 12 Best Belur Tour Packages
  • Top Resorts in Belur
  • Best Time to Visit Belur

How to Reach Belur

  • Driving Directions to Belur

About Belur

Country: india | state: karnataka, #20 of 33 places to visit in karnataka | places to visit in india, ideal trip duration: 2-3 hours, base station: belur, hassan (40 kms), nearest city to belur: bangalore (217 kms), mysore (154 kms), best time to visit belur: october to march, peak season: october to march, belur weather: maximum - 38°c minimum - 20°c.

At a distance of 25 km from Chikmagalur, 40 km from Hassan, 154 km from Mysore, 165 km from Mangalore, and 217 km from Bangalore, Belur is a historical temple town situated in the Hassan district of Karnataka. It is one of the best heritage sites in Karnataka, and among the most famous places to visit near Mangalore . Belur is one of the well-known Karnataka tourist places as it is home to the renowned Hoysala Temple dedicated to Lord Chennakesava. It is the best of three Hoysala temples nominated for UNESCO World Heritage Sites (the other two being the temples at Halebid & Somnathpur). The Hoysala temples are known for minute & intricate carvings and sculptures with metal-like polishing. Sri Chennakesava Temple is one of the must-visit places as part of Belur tour packages . Among the most popular tourist places to visit near Bangalore , Belur was the early capital of the powerful Hoysala Empire on the banks of River Yagachi. As per inscriptions found here, Belur was formerly called Velapuri. Hoysalas were initially under the control of Chalukyas and build their kingdom after the fall of Chalukyas. The Hoysala dynasty originally had their capital at Halebid where they ruled for over 150 years. However, it was invaded by Malik Kafur in the 14th century, plundered to poverty and ruins. Thus, the Hoysalas shifted their seat of power to Belur. Belur can also be visited along with Chikmagalur packages . The Chennakesava temple is one of the finest examples of Hoysala architecture. It was built by King Vishnuvardhana to celebrate his victory over the Cholas at Talakad in 1117 CE. It took 103 years to complete the temple and Vishnuvardhana's grandson Veera Ballala II completed the task. Standing on a star-shaped platform, the temple has three doorways. There are two more shrines for Soumyanayaki and Ranganayaki, consorts of Sri Chennakesava. There is a Pushkarni or stepped well to the right side of the main entrance. The Dravida style raja gopuram at the entrance was a later addition by the Vijayanagar kings. The facade of the temple is filled with intricate sculptures and friezes with no portion left blank. There are about 48 pillars of various sizes, shapes, and designs, bearing testimony to remarkable artistry. Narasimha Pillar is an example of the fine artwork done by Hoysala artists. The main highlight of the temple is Darpana Sundari or The lady with the mirror. There are four well-known bracket figures on the ornate ceiling that are inspired by Shantaladevi's well-endowed beauty. Visitors can see several carvings depicting episodes of Mahabharata, Ramayana, and the Upanishads. Sculptures of birds and animals also can be seen. The beautiful sculpture of Shantaladevi is placed on the circular platform in front of the shrine. It is unique for its hollow and movable jewellery. Yagachi Dam, Halebidu, and Narasimha Pillar are the other places to visit in Belur . Mangalore Airport is the nearest airport, which is 174 km from Belur. The nearest Railway Station is at Hassan, which is about 24 km from Belur. It has trains from Dharwar, Cannanore, Bangalore, Mysore, Shimoga, and Arsikere. Hassan is the base station to travel to Belur and there are frequent buses between Hassan & Belur. Hoysala Mahotsava, a dance festival held in the temples of Belur and Halebid is celebrated in March. It is one of the important festivals in Belur and Halebid. This place can be visited throughout the year. Temple Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM.

...read more

Nearest Airport: Mangalore - Mangalore Airport (174 Kms)

Direct flights to mangalore, nearest train station: hassan railway station (40 kms), direct trains to hassan, nearest bus station: belur bus station (0 kms), direct buses to belur, distance chart, distance chart & driving directions to belur, top 10 places to visit in belur, chennakesava temple / belur temple.

tourist places in belur karnataka

#1 of 8 Places to Visit in Belur

At a distance of 0.5 km from Belur Bus Station, Sri Chennakesava Temple is an ancient temple situated at Belur, Karnataka. The temple is listed as a UNESCO World heritage Site and is one of the must-visit places as part of Belur Tour Packages . Also referred to as Kesava or Vijayanarayana Temple of Belur, Chennakesava Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple was commissioned by King Vishnuvardhana of the Hoysala dynasty in 1117 CE, on the banks of the Yagachi River in Belur, an early Hoysala Empire capital. The temple was built over three generations and took 103 years to complete. It was repeatedly damaged and plundered during wars, repeatedly rebuilt and repaired over its history. Among the famous places to visit in Belur , the temple is very famous for extensive carvings, stone sculptures, artwork and its unique architecture. .....

Yagachi Dam

Yagachi Dam

#2 of 8 Places to Visit in Belur

At a distance of 2.5 km from Belur Bus Stand, Yagachi Dam is an earthen gravity dam situated near Belur in Hassan district of Karnataka. Famous for its water sports, the dam is one of the beautiful dams in Karnataka and also one of the popular places to visit in Belur. The Yagachi Dam is 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 with the objective to harness water resource for the purpose of 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 to spend time away from the hustle and bustle of the city life. The cool breeze of the dam rejuvenates the mind and the body. Just sitting near the reservoir and watching the calm .....

Narasimha Pillar

tourist places in belur karnataka

#3 of 8 Places to Visit in Belur

Situated inside the Chennakesava Temple complex in Belur , the Narasimha Pillar is a magnificent stone pillar with a height of about 30 feet. All sculptures of the temple are carved on this pillar in a miniature form. The pillar is made with soapstone. The base of the pillar is cubical in shape with floral decoration. It is believed that this pillar was once capable of rotating on its axis. Note: This place is inside Chennakesava Temple complex

Madanikas

#4 of 8 Places to Visit in Belur

Inspired by Shantala Devi, Queen of King Vishnuvardhana, there are 42 Bracket Figures called as Madanikas (or Celestial Nymphs) carved out of soap stone placed in different corners of the Chennakesava Temple. All Madanikas are found in different postures of Bharata Natyam and carved to the minute detail. Among these, four bracket figures placed inside the temple's ornate ceiling have become very famous and represent the true beauty of Hoysala's sculpture work. These four madanikas are known as Darpana Sundari - The Beauty with a mirror, The lady with the parrot, The Huntress and The Bhasma Mohini. There are 38 bracket figures placed on the outer walls which are the highlight of the temple's magnificent architecture. All the sculptures are carved with utmost care and clinical precision. Note: This place is inside Chennakesava Temple complex

Shravanabelagola

Shravanabelagola

#5 of 8 Places to Visit in Belur

At a distance of 50 km from Hassan, 83 km from Mysore, and 140 km from Bangalore, Shravanabelagola is one of the most popular Jain pilgrimage centers in South India. This is one of the popular 2 day trip from Bangalore and a major heritage / historical site not to miss in a Karnataka tour packages . This place is named after the pond in the middle of the town (Bela-Kola means White Pond). Shravanabelagola is famous for the Bahubali Statue, among the must include places in Shravanabelagola tour packages . With a height of 58 feet carved out of a single block of granite, the statue is supposed to be the tallest monolithic stone statue in the world. The statue was carved during the period of Chamundaraya, a minister of the Ganga King Rajamalla between 982 and 983 CE. The nude statue of Bahubali is carved carefully ..... Distance (From Belur): 92 Kms Trip Duration (From Belur - Including Travel): 1-2 Days .....

Halebidu

#6 of 8 Places to Visit in Belur

At a distance of 17 km from Belur, 32 km from Hassan, 34 km from Chikmagalur, 148 km from Mysore, & 211 km from Bangalore, Halebidu is located in the Hassan district of Karnataka. It is one of the most popular tourist places in Karnataka , and among the must include places in Chikmagalur tour packages . Halebidu (or Halebid) is famous for the beautiful Hoysala Temples of Hoysaleswara and Kedareswara built in 1121 AD. These are the most important places to visit as part of Halebidu tour packages . It is one of the three Hoysala temples nominated for UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the other two being the Belur temple & Somnathpur temple. The Hoysala temples are known for minute & intricate carvings and sculptures with metal-like polishing. Halebidu was the glorified royal capital of the Hoysala kingdom in the 12th Century. ..... Distance (From Belur): 17 Kms Trip Duration (From Belur - Including Travel): 4 Hours/Half Day .....

Lakshmidevi Temple - Doddagadduvalli, Near Hassan

Lakshmidevi Temple - Doddagadduvalli, Near Hassan

#7 of 8 Places to Visit in Belur

At a distance of 18 km from Halebidu, 21 km from Hassan, and 24 km from Belur, Lakshmi Devi temple is an ancient Hindu temple located at Doddagaddavalli village in the Hassan district of Karnataka. Situated on the Hassan - Belur highway, it is one of the stunning Hoysala temples in Karnataka, and among the top tourist places in Hassan. Dedicated to goddess Lakshmi, the Lakshmi Devi Temple at Doddagaddavalli was built by a merchant called Kullahana Rahuta and his wife Sahaja Devi during the reign of King Vishnuvardhana in 1114 CE, and is one of the earliest known temples built in the Hoysala style. Built with soapstone, it is the only example of the chatuskuta (four-shrined) order of temples built during the Hoysala period. Each is complete with a shikhara, a sukhanasi (vestibule), a kalasa on the shikhara, and a Hoysala crest on the sukhanasi. The temple complex has two entrances. The one on the east makes its way through a porch while the one on the west opens to the lake. ..... Distance (From Belur): 24 Kms Trip Duration (): Not Available .....

Belavadi, Near Halebidu

Belavadi, Near Halebidu

#8 of 8 Places to Visit in Belur

At a distance of 12 km from Halebidu, 27 km from Belur, 64 km from Chikmagalur, and 82 km from Kemmangundi, Belavadi is a village situated in the Chikmagalur district. It is one of the popular places to visit in Halebidu . Belavadi is famous for Sri Veera Narayana Temple built in Hoysala architectural style. The place is described as Ekachakranagara of Mahabharata and is said to be the place where Pandava prince Bheema killed the demon Bakasura and protected the village and its people. Belavadi Temple can be visited along with Chikmagalur Tour Packages . The Veera Narayana temple was built in the 13th century by the Hoysala King Veera Bhallala II. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in three different forms. While Belur and Halebid are famous for their intricate sculpture, this temple is one ..... Distance (From Belur): 27 Kms Trip Duration (From Belur - Including Travel): 2 Hours .....

Top 3 Belur Tour Packages

Belur related pages.

tourist places in belur karnataka

Near By Places

Halebidu Tourism

Similar Places

Hampi Tourism

100% SECURE PAYMENTS

Domestic & international cards accepted.

tourist places in belur karnataka

Our WhatsApp Numbers

International tours, +91-8217845740, south india tours, +91-7995649483, goa, maharashtra, gujarat tours, +91-7032828835, north india tours, +91-9535139583, rest of india, +91-7799591230, request quote, travellers #.

Explore Tour Packages

Planning a Trip?

Discover affordable tour packages, need customized tour request quote, login / sign-up, your sign in was successful itinerary will be downloaded shortly., sign up with trawell.in.

Already Created Account? Login Here

Sign in with Trawell.in Account

Forgot Password?

New User? Sign Up Here

Activate Your Trawell.in Account

Your account is activated successfully. Login Here

Reset Your Trawell.in Password

Your password has been reset successfully. Login Here

Booking Policy

Journey

  • Connect on Facebook
  • Follow on Twitter
  • RSS for Entries
  • Subscribe via Email
  • Tourist Destination
  • Hotel & Resorts

tourist places in belur karnataka

  • About Belur
  • Photo Gallery
  • Video Gallery
  • Nearest Attraction

Chennakeshava-Temple-1

tourist places in belur karnataka

SELECT YOUR HOLIDAY DESTINATION

Aero sports in karnataka, archaeology in karnataka, beaches in karnataka, bird sanctuaries in karnataka, bouldering spot in karnataka, camping in karnataka, cave explorations in karnataka, culturals place in karnataka, dams in karnataka, districts of karnataka, fairs in karnataka, festivals in karnataka, go-karting in karnataka, hill stations in karnataka, historical places in karnataka, holiday resorts in karnataka, islands in karnataka, landscape in karnataka, mountain biking in karnataka, national parks in karnataka, orbit network, pilgrims destinations, para-sailing in karnataka, river rafting in karnataka, rivers in karnataka, rock climbing in karnataka, safari in karnataka, temples in karnataka, trekking in karnataka, water sports in karnataka, waterfalls in karnataka, wildlife sanctuaries in karnataka.

tourist places in belur karnataka

CONNECT WITH US

ico_twitter

© 2017, ↑ BangaloreOrbit

[email protected]

Ind: +91 9205558801.

Indiator

6 Places You Must Visit in Belur

Karnataka Belur Belur

by Indiator

May 25, 2017, in things to do india , tour and travels india, no comments, belur  a prominent land which depicts the tale of the kings and the history of the 10 th – century ruins temples. belur is a small town comes under the hassan district at a distance of 38 km, situated on the bank of the river yagachi. date back belur (formerly known as velapuri) was selected as the alternate capital of the influential hoysala regime after facing the intrusion and demolition in their capital dwarasumudra (presently known as halebidu situated 16 km away from belur). being the art & archaic lovers, hoysalas built numerous temples and monuments spread over in karnataka during their extended ruling tenure. the architecture of temples and sculptures made in that era be the most incredible in the entire world. out of hundred of magnificent temples, few most remarkable temples are in belur and nearby places. to profoundly know more about such a magnificent work of hoysalas, just go through 6 places you can’t afford to miss in belur. chennakesava temple.

The first glimpse of this 10 th – century temple mesmerized you with its outstanding sculptures and sophisticated design.

This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and it took a long period of 100 years to be completed. This most popular place of Belur has so many interesting facts like –

  • A 42m tall gravity pillar placed in amidst of the temple courtyard is standing on its own without any foundation support.
  • The outer walls of the temple are decorated with carvings of animals, including Elephant – symbolize strength, Lion for courage, and horse for speed. The most amazing part is there are more than 600 elephants carved on the wall and each elephant carved uniquely.
  • Miniature shrines which look like a small temple not as a prototype of the main temple.
  • Inside the temple, there are numerous pillars including the most popular Narasimha pillar and each pillar has a unique design.
  • The walls of the temple depict the story of the epic Mahabharata and Ramayana.

Hoysaleswara-Temple

Hoysaleswara Temple

Hoysaleswara Temple is one of the largest temples in South India devoted to Lord Shiva situated in Halebidu 16 Km far from Belur.

This temple has two shrines next to each other, one is Kedareshwara Temple devoted to Lord Shiva and another one is for Shantaleswara.

The mind blowing architecture of the temple is highly praised due to its marvellous sculptures of the dancing Lord Ganesha in various styles. There are around 240 such images in the temple complex.

Besides this, the temple has several Madanika sculptures too. The most interesting as well as ironical fact about the temple is the Garuda Pillar where the bodyguards of the kings and queens committed suicide after the death of their master.

Shravanabelagola-Temple

Shravanabelagola Temple

This outstanding temple is situated on the hilltop of a Vindhyagiri hill at a height of 3347 feet above sea level. This temple is devoted to Sri Gomatheswar also known as Lord Bahubali.

The most remarkable and fascinating thing about the temple is the 58 feet and an 8-inch tall statue of Sri Gomatheswar which is made up of a perfectly chiselled single piece of a granite mountain.

Another interesting part of this place is one should climb around 650 steps to reach inside the main temple complex.

Basadi_Halli _Jain _Temple

Basadi Halli Jain Temple

There are three major Jain Basadis name Adinatheswvara, Shantishvara, and Parshvanathvara situated near Hoysaleswara Temple.

According to the records, originally there were 720 Jain Basadis which now left over with only three.

These basadis looks very simple & classy from outside, but from inside, they are bedecked with beautiful sculptures and intricate designs on the pillar and wall of the temple.  

archaeological-museum

Archaeological Museum

This open-air archaeological museum exhibits a huge collection of 12 th  & 13 th -century sculptures (around 1500 in numbers), wooden carvings, and inscriptions.

Yagachi Dam belur

Yagachi Dam

Apart from temples and monuments, Belur also offers adventurous water sports at Yagachi Dam like Banana boat ride, Jet Ski, Bumper ride, Speed Boat, Trampoline, Kayaking, and Cruise Boat.

Suggested Tour packages

tourist places in belur karnataka

Indiator is a Noida based travel company pioneered in providing tour packages and airport transfer service in India. The offered tour packages range from Honeymoon, Excursion, multi-day, group tour, etc. Its 24/7 service availability and instant booking confirmation is highly appreciated.

Recommended Posts

budget-friendly Darjeeling holiday tour package by Indiator

Indiator’s Darjeeling Travel Guide

March 1, 2024

Book Coorg Holiday Tour Packages Online With Indiator

Explore the Beauty of Coorg in India: Book A Holiday Tour Package Online

February 28, 2024

how much to travel india for a month

Indiator’s Incredible India Tour: A Month-Long Adventure

February 21, 2024

Label : Must Visit

Tags : Temple

Timings : Temple timings: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM, Inner sanctum of main deity stay closed between 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, and 5:00 PM - 5:30 PM

Time Required : 1 day

Entry Fee : Free entrance, Government approved guides cost between INR 125 - INR 250

Dress Code : No strict dress code as such but modest clothing for both men and women.

Planning a Trip? Ask Your Question

Belur, Halebidu Overview

Nestled on the banks of River Yagachi in Hassan District of Karnataka, the town of Belur along with its twin town of Halebid located 16 km away, houses exquisite temples reflecting the exemplary artistic taste and technique of builders of the yore. This small town was the capital of the mighty Hoysala empire and their engineering genius can still be witnessed in the structures that stand here today. Some of the important shrines that are housed here include Chennakesava Temple and Kappe Chennigaray, both of which are exemplary Dravidian pieces of architecture. Non-Hindus are allowed in the temples of Belur.

Known as the 'jewels of the Indian cultural heritage' Belur and Halebid are adorned with the legacy of rich past and culture. Belur is mainly known for its prime attraction, the Chennakesava Temple dedicated to Chennakesava or Lord Vishnu. Legend has it that it took 103 years to complete the construction of this magnificent edifice. Standing right next to it is another temple Kappe Chennigaraya, a temple built by the wife of Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana, Shantaladevi. Apart from these, there are two other temples in the complex. Both temples exhibit the intricate detail work on the walls made up of light green soapstone. Visit this destination for a glorious look into the Hoysala engineering genius.

Read More on Belur

Places to visit in belur, 1. the chennakeshava temple.

tourist places in belur karnataka

2. Madanikas

tourist places in belur karnataka

3. Veeranarayana Temple

tourist places in belur karnataka

4. The Gravity Pillar

tourist places in belur karnataka

5. Kappe Chennigaraya Temple

tourist places in belur karnataka

6. Vishnu Samudra

Best time to visit belur, belur - halebid - shravanbelgola packages by kstdc, architecture of belur.

tourist places in belur karnataka

History of Belur

How to reach belur, top hotel collections.

tourist places in belur karnataka

Near Hoysaleswara Temple

Top Hotels Near Belur

8.1 (351 reviews)

 0 kms

₹ 1,559 onwards

5.6 (56 reviews)

₹ 949 onwards

7.8 (23 reviews)

 1 kms

₹ 2,299 onwards

6.0 (23 reviews)

₹ 1,517 onwards

1.5 (4 reviews)

 10 kms

₹ 7,771 onwards

Belur Reviews

Kovid Kapoor

Have a Question on Belur?

tourist places in belur karnataka

Popular Questions And Answers on Belur

Q. Can we have local car hiring options in Halebidu or Belur? Any tour operators?

Other Top Ranking Places In Halebidu

Nearby places.

Yagachi Dam

Similar Places

Get customized travel packages.

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

  • India (+91)

*All prices shown on the website are tentative. Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

TravelEscape Logo

  • Travel Info
  • Stay Review
  • Travel Deals

Belur and Halebidu Travel Guide | The Twin Jewels in Cultural Heritage of India

Belur Halebidu Guide

Belur and Halebidu Travel Guide – Had you ever thought it possible that stones could make you laugh, cry, and gape in awe and wonder? Yes, stones too can speak volumes and this fact was highly corroborated when I visited the temple towns of Belur and Halebidu.

The stones that are an inherent part of the intricately carved temples at these places have stories to tell and you need to experience it personally to believe what I am saying.

No words or images can do justice to the architectural magnificence that is so synonymous to the temples here and the level of dedication, skill, and craftsmanship that has gone towards their making is simply unimaginable.

I bet your state will be like that of a child in a sweet shop, not knowing which, how much and from where to admire and appreciate!

Before you start let me clarify that this place is for those who admire art, sculpture, architecture, and history. If you are interested in any of these subjects, then this is certainly a ‘not to miss’ destination.

If you are not interested in these subjects, then this destination is not for you as there is nothing else here.

Where are Belur & Halebidu located?

The twin towns of Belur and Halebidu are located 17 km apart in the district of Hassan in Karnataka. Bangalore to Belur is roughly 220 km. via Hassan. Nestling on the banks of river Yagachi, the towns are home to some of the best temple architecture of the earlier eras and the engineering skills of the artisans of yore can be witnessed even today.

What are the best times to visit?

The ideal time to visit the towns in the period between October and April. During this time, the area experiences pleasant weather during the mornings and evenings. You need to be protected well enough if you want to move about in the afternoons as the weather can get too hot for you to appreciate the beautiful and intricate work in the two temple towns.

The famed dance festival, the Hoysala Mahotsava is held here in the month of March. It is best if you can witness this important festival celebration.

How to reach from Bengaluru

  • Belur can be reached by train or bus from Bangalore.
  • The railway station closest to Belur is, however, Hassan which is at a distance of 37 km from it. Daily trains ply between Bangalore and Hassan and from Hassan, the onward journey can be done by a taxi or a bus.
  • There are several private buses operating from Bangalore that takes you directly to Belur. You can also take the KSRTC buses up to Hassan and then move ahead by another bus or a taxi.
  • You can also utilize the services of tourist taxis directly from Bangalore which is about 3.5 hours to a four-hour drive. Buses will, however, take longer to reach your destination which is Hassan.
  • It is, therefore, better if you start early from Bangalore so that you can embark on your visit before the start of noon.
  • Bangalore to Hassan road is very good and driving on this road is enjoyable.
  • The distance between Halebidu and Belur is about 17 km and you can plan your itinerary as per your convenience making Hassan the starting point of your tour.

Local Transport & Places to Stay

You will need to resort to autorickshaws and taxis to move about within the area. If you have deep pockets then taxis are a better option.

There are very few choices for accommodation at Belur and Halebidu. It is best for you to stay at Hassan if you want to cover both the areas of Halebidu and Belur.

Brief History of Belur & Halebidu Temples

Halebidu Carving

Belur and Halebidu are two shining jewels in the cultural heritage of India. Both the towns were seats of royal power during the reign of the Hoysalas around the 12 th century. The capital which was earlier located at Halebidu was shifted to Belur after its invasion by the Sultanate of Delhi.

The main spot of tourist attraction in Belur is the magnificent Chennakesava Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is said to be constructed to commemorate the victory of one of its greatest rulers, King Vishnuvardhana over the Chola kings in 1117. Though Jakanachari was the main sculptor, hundreds of sculptors have put in their talent and hard work to make this a magnificent temple.

The Kappe Chennigaraya temple adjacent to it was constructed by King Vishnuvardhana’s wife, Shantaladevi and is another awe-inspiring example of astounding architectural work. Two more temples in the complex showcase the engineering genius of the Hoysalas.

Halebidu, in literal terms, means ‘Old City’; it was named as such because it was ravaged twice by forces of the Delhi Sultanate. The temple town is home to the magnificent Kedareshwara and Hoyaleswara temples which showcase the prominent Hoysala style architecture. Other worth visiting spots are the two Jain Basadis. An archaeological museum is also housed within the complex.

Architectural Splendour of the Belur Temples

The chennakesava temple.

The Chennakesava Temple is the major tourist attraction in Belur and is dedicated to Lord Vijayanarayana, one of the many avatars of Lord Vishnu. The temple was built to commemorate the victory of Hoysalas over Cholas and hence the name Vijayanarayana. The temple is the best example of the exquisite carvings and sculptures of the time and stands testimony to the craftsmanship of the Dravidians. The temple took around 103 years to be completed. The work which began during the rule of King Visnuvardhana was finished by his grandson.

No stone lies untouched; each one of them has detailed work done on it. The elegant sculptural work contained in the temple’s wall-images is par excellence; the exquisitely carved pillars and statues are certain to take your breath away. They never fail to fill you with awe irrespective of the number of times you pay a visit to the site. Soft soapstone or gray-green chlorite has been the material used in the making of the temple.

The temple is of assembled type. No binding material was used to construct the temple. There has been no major destruction to the temple, only some small idols are stolen which is the handwork of small thieves.

Following are some of the things to look out for in this temple:

  • Madanikas : About more than 40 carvings of celestial nymphs or Madanikas as they are referred to, adorn the varied corners of the Chennakesava temple. The detailed carvings display varied Bharatnatyam postures and are said to have been inspired by Shantala Devi, the Queen of Vishnuvardhana, who was an exemplary dancer.
  • Darpana Sundari: Among the Madanikas, Darpana Sundari is very popular because of the imagination of the sculptor and intricate carving work. Next comes, the lady with a parrot, known as Shukhabhashini, which conveys that parrots were used to send messages as they can imitate humans. The intricate carving of ornaments on madanikas is something unbelievable.
  • The Bhasma Mohini and the Huntress stand testimony to the true skill and knowledge of the artisans belonging to yesteryears. The beauty of the glistening soapstone which has been used throughout the temple is enhanced by the lighted diyas placed around.
  • Gravity Pillar : The Mahasthamba or the Gravity Pillar is a pillar which stands tall at 42 feet in the center of the temple courtyard. The most remarkable thing about it is that it stands without a base to it. The granite pillar is built out of a single stone and is held in place by the sheer force of gravity.
  • Outer Walls: The outer walls are covered with rows and rows of carvings depicting scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Upanishads and varied animals. The base is carved with elephants numbering 642 and no two elephants are the same and each carving is perfect to the smallest detail. The row above this comprises of horses. You are truly at a loss for words as you admire the sheer mastery of the artisans who transformed ordinary stones into architectural marvels.
  • Lintels above the Entrances: There exists marvelous, ornamental horizontal works of art above the varied entrances of the temple. One has Lord Vishnu is depicted as Narasimha, another has Lord Vishnu with his consort Goddess Lakshmi.
  • The ceiling of the Temple : The insides of the temple are rather engulfed in darkness; despite the lack of light you should not forget to observe the ornate circle of the ceiling. The center spot is adorned with a noticeable carving of Narasimha, an avatar of Lord Vishnu.
  • Narasimha Pillar : The first thing that catches your attention as you enter inside is the Narasimha Pillar which can be easily spotted out by the vermillion marks stamped on it by devotees. It has been said that the pillar was capable of being rotated in the years of yore due to the presence of ball bearings on the top.
  • Hoysala Emblem : The Hoysala emblem at the temple can be easily missed amidst the mesmerizing sculptural pieces if its significance is not pointed out to you. Sala, the founder of Hoysala dynasty is seen fighting with the tiger in this sculpture.
  • Vishnu Samudra : The Vishnu Samudra is a big tank that was constructed during ruler Narasimha Raya’s reign. The tank water is meant for usage in the temple rituals. Several additions were made to the tank by Basappa Nayaka.

The VeeranarayanaTemple

The Veernarayana Temple is dedicated to Lord Veeranarayana or Lord Vishnu. Built by King Ballala II belonging to the Hoysala dynasty, the temple portrays the varied avatars and forms of Lord Vishnu. The central shrine comprises of a huge image of the four-handed Narayana, the northern shrine comprises a huge image of Yoganarasimha and the southern shrine comprises a huge image of Venugopala or Lord Krishna with a flute.

The Kappe Chennigaraya Temple

The Kappe Chennigaraya Temple is situated within the premises of the Veernarayana Temple and lies to the southern part of the Chennakesava Temple. The temple’s interiors are adorned with excellent carvings and sculptures that surely take your breath away. The temple was constructed by Queen Shantaladevi.

The Chennakeshava deity is decorated as Mohini by using all the ornaments worn by female goddesses. The specialty of this temple is that it attracts both devotees and tourists. The temple provides food for the devotees free of cost in the afternoons.

What to look for in Halebidu Temples

Halebidu Temple

Halebidu has two landmark temples – Kedareswara and Hoysaleswara which are situated at about a distance of 1 km. which were constructed around 1121 AD have been nominated as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.

The Hoysaleswara Temple

The Hoysaleswara temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva too is filled with intricate carvings and engraved sculptures. The shrine is built on an elevated star-shaped platform and displays beautiful scrollwork in stone. The Garuda Stambha is one of the many attractions of this place. The ramparts of the shrine are decorated with carvings of many gods and goddesses, birds, animals and dancing girls. The lowest design pattern of the shrine depicts about 2000 elephants along with riders, all in varied postures set amid several horses, floral motifs and mythical beasts. The beautiful carvings on the doorkeepers or Dwarpalakas as they are called have to be seen to be believed.

Besides, the statue of Nandi, bull and Lord Shiva’s chariot that are connected to the temple through a pathway are noteworthy attractions within the complex.

The Kedareshwara Temple

The Kedareshwara Temple which is a testimony to the Chalukyan architecture style was constructed by King Ballala II. Though the temple largely stands in ruins today its basement still exhibits a number of carvings depicting anecdotes from classic epics like the Mahabharata, Ramayana and Bhagavad Gita. The decorations on the ceiling and walls of the temple look beautiful even today.

The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is enshrined in the inner sanctum as a shiva linga in black stone. In addition, there is a small statue of Janardhana and Brahmalinga held in the shrine.

Other places to visit near Halebidu

Other places of tourist attractions around Halebidu are Hulikere Pond, Nagareshwara Temple, Dwarasamudra lake, and Jain Basadis. These places are worth spending your time. You can also visit Somanathapura and Shravanabelagola if time permits. These two places also have carved a niche in history as worth visiting places.

Importance of a Guide during your Visit

Without a guide, you will not understand the true meanings of the sculptures at these places. Every ‘Shila Balike’ has a story behind it. A guide alone can recreate the history of years gone by and make the entire tour very interesting and enlightening.

Explaining the origin of the main sculpture pieces will itself take about 3-4 hours. Government-appointed guides are available near the temple. Engage a person who knows your language.

This is an important factor as that alone will enable you to drown in the history and intrigue of an earlier era and build impactful memories for years to come.

Shopping tip for you

As you have shown keen interest in this article, it means you are a lover of art and sculpture. Locals make carvings of small statues and artifacts which are available for sale outside the temple. Do buy them for two reasons, first it is their livelihood, second, you are encouraging local talent. Do not forget to bargain and check the quality before you buy it.

Hoysala Dynasty

After seeing these exceptional masterpieces, one will be curious about the dynasty which gifted this to us. Hoysala dynasty, which mainly ruled in Karnataka from the 10 th Century to 14 th Century, is synonymous with sculpture, bravery, and art.

They derived a unique style of sculpting by combining the Aryan and Dravidian styles. Somanatheshwara Temples, Belavadi Temple, Nuggehalli Temple and many more temples in South India are also the contributions of Hoysala rulers.

Hoysala kings were also patrons of literature and famous poets like Janna, Raghavanka, Harihara, Rudrabhatta,  created their best works under the patronage of Hoysala kings.

Summarizing

A visit to the temple towns of Belur and Halebidu is an experience of a lifetime. So if you are planning a holiday down to the southern part of India, I would advise you to set aside some time for a visit to these two interesting places.

Before you go – I hope the blog post answered some of the questions about Belur & Halebidu travel guide . Do you still have a question? Feel free to comment or rate us by clicking the 5 stars.

Share This Amazing Location!

About the author: lakshmi vijayadas.

tourist places in belur karnataka

Related Posts

Free Camping Site Near Bangalore | Our Day Camping Experience

Free Camping Site Near Bangalore | Our Day Camping Experience

Bangalore to Coorg  in 2023 | The Best Way to Travel From Bangalore To Coorg

Bangalore to Coorg  in 2023 | The Best Way to Travel From Bangalore To Coorg

AiholeTravel Guide | Experience the Essence of Evolution through Architecture.

AiholeTravel Guide | Experience the Essence of Evolution through Architecture.

' src=

Madam, we want to visit beloor and halebid in the month of november 2022.Can you suggest a good person who will explain us the history in hindi. Thanks

Session expired

Please log in again. The login page will open in a new tab. After logging in you can close it and return to this page.

Cookie Consent

logo

+91 9886-52-52-53

logo

  • Beach Tour Packages
  • Heritage Tour Packages
  • Hill Stations Tour Packages
  • Honeymoon Tour Packages
  • Pilgrimage Tour Packages
  • Wildlife Tour Packages

tourist places in belur karnataka

  • Alleppey/Alappuzha Packages
  • Andaman Tour Packages
  • Chikmagalur packages
  • Coorg Packages
  • Dharmasthala packages
  • Goa Packages
  • Gokarna tour package
  • Hampi tour packages
  • Kanyakumari Tour Packages
  • Karnataka Packages
  • Kerala Tour Packages
  • Kodaikanal Tour Packages
  • Madurai Tour Packages
  • Mangalore tour package
  • Munnar Tour Packages
  • Murudeshwara tour package
  • Mysore Tour Packages
  • Ooty Tour Packages
  • Pondicherry Tour package
  • Puri tour packages
  • Rameshwaram Tour Packages
  • Tamilnadu Tour Packages
  • Thekkady Packages
  • Udupi packages
  • Wayanad Tour Packages
  • Trips from Bangalore
  • Trips from Chennai
  • Andaman-Portblair
  • Chikamagalur
  • Kanyakumari
  • Mysore/Mysuru
  • Pondicherry
  • Rameshwaram
  • Murudeshwar
  • Srirangapatna
  • Bhubaneswar
  • Dharmasthala
  • Andaman Nicobar
  • Himachal Pradesh
  • Jammu & Kashmir
  • Uttarakhand
  • Bangalore Weekend Getaways
  • Beaches near Bangalore
  • Pilgrimage places near Bangalore
  • Places to visit near Bangalore
  • Trekking near Bangalore
  • Waterfalls near Bangalore
  • Wildlife near Bangalore
  • Goa Beaches
  • Hill Stations in Karnataka
  • Hill Stations near Bangalore

tourist places in belur karnataka

  • Internet Availability: Good
  • STD Code: 08177
  • Languages Spoken: Kannada, English and Hindi
  • Major Festivals: Hoysala Festival, Dasara and Deepavali
  • Notes/Tips: None

Near by places

tourist places in belur karnataka

Similar destinations

tourist places in belur karnataka

Get our assistance for easy booking

Or call us at

Belur Overview

  • Ideal Trip Duration: 3 - 4 hours
  • Nearest City Belur: Hassan
  • Best Time to Visit Belur: Through out the year
  • Peak Season: Nov to Feb
  • Weather Info: Moderate
  • State: karnataka

Belur is a town in the Hassan district of Karnataka. The town is known for the Chennakeshava temple which is one of the finest examples of Hoysala architecture in the country. Belur was one of the most important centers during the Hoysala Empire. With reference to the inscriptions belonging to the 11th century that was found here, the place was also called “Velur” or “Velapuri”. It remained the second capital from 11th century to the 14th and was also “Dakshin Varanasi” (southern city of the Hindus). Now its name is taken from beryl originally because of the mineral beryllium that is found here. It is one of the top places to visit in Belur .

Belur Tourism

Filled with lush greenery and pure air and treasured with the rich history of the Hoysala empire, Belur is a fascinating place and attracts a huge amount of footfall every year. The scenic beauty is sure to melt anyone’s heart. Belur has a lot to offer to its visitors, starting right from the beautiful landscapes to the iconic temples and the magnificent architectures that portray the Hindu mythology at every point. The best time to visit the place is from October to March when the weather stays a bit cool.

Belur Temple Pillar and architecture

Belur was the holy place of the Hoysala empire and as a result of this, it has many temples standing till this day. These temples were carved out of rocks with beautiful sculptures that are done on the pillars of the temples here. These temples serve as a reference to many archaeologists and historians for a study on the styles of the Indian empires.

The temple of Belur followed the Karnataka Style of architecture. The themes of the temple in Belur follow the Shaivism or the Shaktism ideology. A few of these iconic temples have been recognized as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.

Belur Temple carvings

The temples in Belur, Karnataka are rich with resources of the history that portray the culture and heritage with every carving that were done on the walls of these temples. These temples were built between 1106 to 1117 AD during the Hoysala empire and were commissioned by the King Vishnuvardhana. 

The temples had witnessed many wars and were partially plundered by foreign invaders like Malik Kafur and Alauddin Khilji for gold. They were again repaired and reconstructed by the Vijaynagara Empire. The works on the temple show the various beliefs of people and the images of gods and goddesses. A strong of Shaivism and Shaktism are also propagated through these carvings. It is one of the famous tourist spot in Belur and you should include this in your  Chikamagalur tour package .

Belur Temple Timings

The Chennakeshava temple in Belur opens at 7:00 a.m. in the morning and closes at 1:00 PM. and again reopens at 2:00 p.m. and closes at 8:00 p.m. to be reopened for the next day.

Top 4 Places to Visit in Belur

tourist places in belur karnataka

Chennakeshava Temple being an old building, has seen layers of historical phases....

tourist places in belur karnataka

Doddagaddavalli is a quiet little village that is situated within a distance of 15...

tourist places in belur karnataka

The town of Halebid is also known as Halebidu, and it is located on the district of...

tourist places in belur karnataka

The magnificent festival ofHoysalaMahotsava the rich Indian cultures, tradition,...

Most Popular Belur Tour Packages

tourist places in belur karnataka

Planning a Trip to Belur ?

11 belur tours from ₹6800.00.

The Travel Vibes

Places to Visit | Things to Do in Belur Karnataka

Belur and its twin town houses many majestic temples. They reflect the definite artistic taste and style of builders of the past. This small town includes engineering geniuses who can still be caught in the structures that stand here. Some of the shrines are ideal Dravidian pieces of art and landscapes. You can enjoy the top waterfalls or adore the natural beauty of parks. Noted as the jewels of the Indian cultural heritage, Belur is adorned with legacy and culture. There are various things to do in Belur Karnataka. Visit this destination for a superb look and unforgettable memories.

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Belur Karnataka

This article will uncover the things to do in Belur Karnataka. So, plan a one-week holiday.

1- Offer rituals at Chennakesava Temple

Among the places to visit in Karnataka , Sri Chennakesava Temple is an antique temple at Belur. The temple is a must-visit place in Belur trip packages. It is known as Kesava or Vijayanarayana Temple. This temple is a Hindu temple devoted to Lord Vishnu. Likewise, the temple was created over three eras and took 103 years to end. It was continually impaired and raided during wars, rebuilt, and fixed in history. The temple sits in the center, fronting the east. A six-foot-tall idol of Lord Vishnu is placed.

Chennakesava Temple

Accordingly, the temple is noted for its extensive carvings, stone statues, artwork, and unique art. It is built with soapstone and minor shrines inside a walled blend. The Narasimha pillar is the most famous of these pillars. There are a total of 48 pillars, all carved and adorned. Thus, the temple has a beautiful stepwell near the entrance, used in the olden days for bathing.

2- Ride at the Yagachi Dam

At a distance of 2.5 km, Yagachi Dam is an earthen dam. Famous for its water sports, the dam is one of the most stunning. It was created in 2001 across the River Yagachi, a branch of River Kaveri. The dam’s size is 1280 m, and the elevation is 26 meters. It was created to harness water resources for fields and meet the supply for drinking water.

Moreover, the natural beauty of the terrain thrills visitors. Sitting near the pool and overlooking the calm water relaxes one. Lately, the Yagachi Water Adventure Sports Centre has been placed up in the frontiers of this dam to attract travelers. So, the tourists can go for various water sports. It includes banana boat rides, cruise boats, speed boats, kayaking, jet skiing, etc. are available.

3- Play at Belur Golf Course

Belur Golf Course is a piece of Colonial Belur Golf Club . It is dense green throughout the year and is suitable for families to spend time in the dark. It is also a famous movie shooting spot. Apart from all this, it is known as Belur Bane. By place, you may have seen this area since your childhood. There is no supervision for the preservation of nature or other things. However, the authority of this area kept it natural.

Belur Golf Course

Furthermore, you will find green grass like the portrait. It is a must-visit site if you’re in love with nature lovers. This well-maintained nine-hole golf course is open for fellows to enjoy the game. Another golf course at Chikmagalur is near the city’s outskirts. Thus, you can see the fantastic lush-green natural grass of the golf course. So, enjoy walking barefoot across the field and recreating golf with the other travelers.

4- View the Gravity Pillar

The reign of the Vijayanagar dynasty has even involved Belur in building many structures. The speciality of this dynasty is the Channakeshava temple with its countable and lofty pillars. The Gravity Pillar is more commonly called the Mahasthamba or Kartika Deepotsava Sthamba. It is a 42-foot-tall pillar seated during the rule of King Devaraya in 1414.

In addition, this granite pillar is remarkable because the post stands without a ground. It is created of a single stone and stands on a stone forum held by gravity. Visitors often flock to relish the dam’s beauty and the nearby areas. Still, the place is ideal for spending time away from the rush and bustle of city life.

5- Explore Veera Narayana Temple

This temple is devoted to Veeranarayana or Lakshmi Narayana. It is famous for its artistic interiors. King Veera Ballala II of the Hoysala dynasty made this praise or three-shrined temple. Likewise, it depicted the different forms and avatars of Lord Vishnu.

Veera Narayana Temple

Further, the prominent shrine is a perfect picture of Narayana with four hands. The southern sanctum is a giant picture of Venugopala. Here, Krishna is shown playing the flute. Similarly, the north shrine is a tall picture of Yoga Narasimha. Therefore, the cool breeze in the main center will rejuvenate the mind and the body.

6- Trek at Ermai Waterfall

Ermai Waterfall is one of the most gorgeous waterfalls. Apart from overseeing the water thrashing from the peak, this cascade is also an excellent goal for trekkers. While strolling around here, you can see the lovely places covering this waterfall. You can pick a self-drive car in Belur to visit all these places.

Moreover, you can visit the site or app to reserve a car rental to visit this waterfall. The app can readily be found on your phone and is super user-friendly. If you choose this option, it will not only make your venture to waterfall for free. But also save a lot of money. Now, make up your mind and plan a picnic to enjoy the views of this stunning and refreshing waterfall.

7- Drive to Mullayanagari Hill

You can steer to Mullayanagari Hill . It is the highest elevation in Karnataka. Still, it rises almost 6300 ft above sea level. There are cascades and brooks along the way, making the trek unique. These elevated hills are roughly 47 km from Belur.

Mullayanagari Hill

Further, Kemmangundi is about 4,700 ft above sea level. It is another cliff you can walk up to. Also, it is ideally a queenly retreat, as it was used as a summer lodge by King Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV. So, put on your jogging boots and hike on the steep hill.

8- Glance at the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is lodged between the dense forested areas of the Western Ghats and Shimoga. This shelter is home to big animals to exotic creatures. You can arrange for safaris and nature paths. It is almost 103 km from Belur and is an ideal place for a weekend escape.

9- Stay-in at Mayura Velapuri Hotel

There are many hotels in Belur. The Mayura Velapuri Hotel is near the Chennakeshava temple. It presents a suitable place and a cafe where you can have your dinners even if you decide not to stay. Many resorts, like the Hoysala Village Resort, are located on Belur-Hassan Road.

But, tourists still consider this place as the perfect resort for staying. In addition, this hotel offers a relaxing stay, a swimming pool, shuttle buses, and a relaxed setting. Thus, they are modestly priced hotels in Belur.

Mayura Velapuri Hotel

10- Shop things along the town

As you stroll downtown, you will find various stalls and indoor shops. They deliver the finest specialties of the region. The temple town’s specialties are stuff created of metals. Many metal lamps, bells, jewels, decorative pieces, and Panchaloka divinity statues can be found. You can also buy boutique ware in the antique shops and the streets.

Belur is one of the most attractive sites. It is famous worldwide for its unusual art wonders. Get ready to go on a 220-kilometer highway trip to Belu. It is one of the most joyful trips for Bangalore locals. Many townlets, parks, and waterfalls are on the banks of the Yagachi River. It is even a central pilgrim site that multiple Hindus visit every year. They come not only for spiritual causes but also for things to do in Belur Karnataka.

FAQs on Things to Do in Belur Karnataka

Visiting Belur’s basic appeals mainly requires two to three hours or half a day. Belur can also be blended with nearby fabulous points like Shravanabelagola, Chikmagalur, and Halebidu. You can add a few additional days to your holiday trip.

The budget for the Belur journey depends on the trip time and type of hotel you select for your stay, along with the vehicle you prefer. Trawell presents tour packages. Begin with Ind 5750 per person for a 2D/1N travel and from INR 8400 per person for a 3D/2N break.

Hope so you enjoy our article, do check out more of our  amazing articles .

' src=

Huma Chaudhary

Croatia must see locations, discover natural marvels: new river gorge national park, you may also like, canoeing on the zambezi river, cruising the mediterranean: a journey through time, grab top 10 items for disney cruise packing..., 10 astonishing things to do in fairfax, top 10 fishing destinations around the world: where..., the best of all things to do in..., cataz.net: ultimate guide to free movies and shows..., required papers: do you need a passport to..., what to pack for your first surf trip, adventurous things to do in the bahamas, leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

  • Things To Do?
  • Immigration Procedures
  • Privacy Policy
  • Get In Touch

Trodly App

Book on app to avail discounts

Download Now

  • Looking for?
  • Belur Images

tourist places in belur karnataka

Belur Tourism | Places to Visit | Things To Do

  • Belur Information
  • Top Things To Do in Belur
  • View Places on Belur Map

Top 10 Places to Visit in Belur

  • Belur Getaways
  • Belur Tours & Things To Do

Belur , Karnataka

Belur - things to know, best time to visit belur, nearby railway stations, airports near belur.

Belur image

About Belur

Belur, located on the banks of river Yagachi about 40 km from Hassan, is world famous tourist destination because of the ancient temples here. The town is most famous for its  Chennakeshava temple , one of the finest examples of Hoysala workmanship.  When Halebidu was attacked by the North India’s sultans, the kingdom moved their capital to Belur. From the 11 th to 13 th centuries, the Hoysalas ruled parts of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu from here.

The main tourist activity in this area is temple viewing. Aside from viewing temples, take some time to sit in cafes and restaurants, sip a cup of chai or local coffee while chatting with the locals, they can tell you stories from the past and the present situation in Belur. Coffee is the main crop in the region. Ragi Mudde is a popular meal across Karnataka and is widely available. Being a small temple town, Belur is hardly a center for shopping. Books, trinkets and souvenirs are sold by vendors outside the temple grounds and around the area.

Beautiful scenarios can be seen while travelling in Belur. Coffee, rice,finger millet, pepper, cardamom, ginger and sugarcane are produced in the region. The Chandragiri Hill near Shravanabelagola is one of the best places to relax as well as the Vindhyagiri Hill. Take care of your belongings and avoid being alone during the night. Guides offer their services at many of the temples. They are very trustworthy but try to negotiate and agree over a price to avoid disputes. Be careful while driving or walking in the hills too.

2 Tours & Activities in Belur

places to see

Embark on a historical journey towards Belur and Halebidu which was under the control of Hoysala kingdom. On the...

places to see

Embark on a historical journey towards Belur & Halebidu which was under the control of Hoysala...

Explore Belur

Family-friendly

Tours & Sightseeing

Location & Places to Visit on Belur Map

travel guide

Freedom to make your own trip!

What you want, when you want and how you want.

The Gravity Pillar

The Gravity Pillar, Karnataka

0.7 km from Belur - See map

This pillar located inside Chennakesava Temple (Keshava Temple). Visitors should avoid the temptation to knock this structure over :) - this...

Darpan Sundari

Darpan Sundari, Karnataka

Darpan Sundari, or The Lady With the Mirror, is one of the must-sees sculptures inside the Chennakeshava Temple. A sculpture found within the...

Kappe Chennigaraya Temple

Pilgrimage, Historical

Kappe Chennigaraya Temple, Karnataka

Kappe Chennigaraya Temple is a small shrine that can be found close to the Chennakeshava Temple. There is a story behind the temple: a father,...

Chennakeshava Temple

Chennakeshava Temple, Karnataka

0.8 km from Belur - See map

From a short distance, this is a magnificent and imperial looking structure. From closer up, the intricacy becomes more apparent. The temple is...

Vishnu Samudra

Vishnu Samudra, Karnataka

It is also know as the Big Tank of Belur. The Big Tank was built under the reign of Narasimha Raya. The steps around the edge of the water was...

Hoysaleshwara Temple

Hoysaleshwara Temple, Karnataka

16.5 km from Belur - See map

Walk among the coconut trees and flowers of the grounds of this temple. It was finished  in 1121 CE and is dedicated to Shiva. The temple boasts...

Kedareswara Temple

Kedareswara Temple, Karnataka

17 km from Belur - See map

Kedareswara Temple is the other not to miss temple in Halebidu.  Some of the sculptures here detail stories from the Mahabharata, Bhagavad Gita...

Lakshmi Devi Temple, Doddagaddavalli

Lakshmi Devi Temple, Doddagaddavalli, Karnataka

23.9 km from Belur - See map

Lakshmi Devi Temple is located in Doddagaddavalli of Hassan District of Karnataka. Vishnuvaradhana, a King of Hoysalas Dynasty constructed this...

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

Nature, Wildlife

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka

*27.9 km from Belur - See map

Located in Chikmagalur and Shimoga districts of Karnataka, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is renowned for housing substantial tiger population....

Veera Narayana Temple

Veera Narayana Temple, Karnataka

28.1 km from Belur - See map

This is another small temple with an architectural style similar to that of the main Chennakeshava Temple. It can be found on the west side of the...

Sakleshpur

Adventure, Pilgrimage

Sakleshpur, Karnataka

37 km from Belur - See map

Sakleshpur is famous for the Sakleshwara temple and has a broken linga installed in the temple premises. The temple is in the entrance of the city...

Hasanamba Temple

Hasanamba Temple, Karnataka

37.3 km from Belur - See map

The main deity of this temple is “Goddess Shakti” named Hasanamba. Dating back to 800 years, the inner chamber of the temple will be opened...

Destinations near Belur

places to see

Belur Tours & Activities

places to see

Embark on a historical journey towards Belur and Halebidu which was under the control of Hoysala kingdom. On the second day visit Shravanabelagola which has the largest monolith statue of Gommateshwara in the world. Highlights Visit the oldest temples of Hoysala kingdom in Belur and Halebidu...

places to see

Embark on a historical journey towards Belur & Halebidu which was under the control of Hoysala kingdom.  Highlights Visit the oldest temples of Hoysala kingdom Explore the Hoysala architecture, which is one of finest architectural style. Witness the carvings, miniature shrines, Hoysala...

Belur travel tips & reviews Recent -->

Got an insider’s tip that might help a fellow traveller? Do share it.

You have to be logged in to post in this section.

You don`t have an acount yet?! You can SIGN UP .

Other travellers left Belur reviews and tips for you

Travel Guide

Get trip inspirations, offers and more.

Outlook

The Hans India

BusinessLine (The Hindu)

BusinessLine (The Hindu)

Indian Express

Indian Express

TravHQ

TravelMassive

Voyagers World

Voyagers World

Entrepreneur

Customer support

Need any help for your trip? Feel free to write to us at [email protected]

100% secured payment

Our payment gateway system is 100% secured, you can count on us for the security of your money.

tourist places in belur karnataka

IMAGES

  1. 5 Best Places to Visit in Belur, Karnataka

    tourist places in belur karnataka

  2. 8 Best places to visit in Belur in 2021- Tourist Attractions and Things

    tourist places in belur karnataka

  3. Why should you visit Belur, the Benaras of South?

    tourist places in belur karnataka

  4. OUR KARNATAKA: STONE TEMPLES OF BELUR AND HALEBEEDU

    tourist places in belur karnataka

  5. Chennakesava Temple

    tourist places in belur karnataka

  6. Visit Belur: Best of Belur, Karnataka Travel 2021

    tourist places in belur karnataka

COMMENTS

  1. 8 Places To Visit In Belur In 2024

    Inside the temple there is a basement which features sculptural friezes depicting the story of Ramayana, Mahabharata and Bhagavad Gita. It's amazing architecture makes it one of the best tourist places in Belur. Location: Watehalla, Halebeedu, Karnataka 573121. Timings: 8AM-5:30PM.

  2. 10 Places to Visit in Belur, Tourist Places & Top Attractions

    Yagachi Dam. Yagachi Dam is an earthen gravity dam, built over Yagachi river, one of the tributaries of Kaveri. One of the most popular spots for water sports in Karnataka, the dam is situated at a height of 965 feet above sea level, and is 1,280 meters long.

  3. Places to Visit in Belur

    Chennakesava Temple. It is an architectural Marvel with poetry on stone. 2. Pathaleshwara Temple. 3. Belur Golf Course. Belur Golf Course in part of Colonial Belur Golf Club. It is lush green all through the year and is perfect for families to spend some quality time in the evening. It is also a popular movie shooting spot.

  4. 8 Best Places to Visit in Belur, Things to Do & Sightseeing

    Backwaters. #2 of 8 Places to Visit in Belur. At a distance of 2.5 km from Belur Bus Stand, Yagachi Dam is an earthen gravity dam situated near Belur in Hassan district of Karnataka. Famous for its water sports, the dam is one of the beautiful dams in Karnataka and also one of the popular places to visit in Belur.

  5. THE BEST Things to Do in Belur (Updated 2024)

    1. Chennakesava Temple. It is an architectural Marvel with poetry on stone. 2. Pathaleshwara Temple. 3. Belur Golf Course. Belur Golf Course in part of Colonial Belur Golf Club. It is lush green all through the year and is perfect for families to spend some quality time in the evening.

  6. Things to Do in Belur Halebeedu

    The towns of Belur and Halebedu are located in Karnataka. These twin cities are around 17 km apart are popular historical attractions ... Places to visit in Belur and Halebidu. 1. Chenna Kesava Temple . The most popular temple in Belur is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The Chennakeshava temple in Belur known for its intricate carvings made using ...

  7. Belur Tourism (2024): All You Need to Know Before You Go

    Belur Tourism: Tripadvisor has 1,086 reviews of Belur Hotels, Attractions, and Restaurants making it your best Belur Tourism resource. ... Holiday Homes. Restaurants. Travel Forums. Flights. Add a Place. More. See all photos. Asia. India. Karnataka. Hassan District. Belur. Belur. Belur Tourism Belur Hotels Belur Guest House Belur Holiday Homes ...

  8. 8 Best places to visit in Belur in 2021- Tourist Attractions and Things

    Chennakesava Temple. Kedareswara Temple. Archaeological Museum. Ermai Waterfall. 1. Yagachi Dam. Yagachi Dam is one of the best places to visit in Belur. You can see the lush green landscape all around the Dam and feel the cool breeze in the evening. The place is visited both by tourists as well as locals.

  9. Belur, India 2024: Best Places to Visit

    Belur Tourism: Tripadvisor has 1,086 reviews of Belur Hotels, Attractions, and Restaurants making it your best Belur resource.

  10. 8 Places To Visit In Belur

    Belur is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Karnataka. It is known all over the world for its amazing and unique buildings. One of the perfect ways to spend a day off for people who live in the state capital, Bangalore, is to drive 220 kilometers to Belur.On the bank of the Yagachi River is a small town called "Dakshina Banaras."

  11. 5 Best Places to Visit in Belur, Karnataka

    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 kilometres from Bangalore. Belur is one of the most visited places in Karnataka […]

  12. THE 10 BEST Belur Tours & Excursions for 2024 (with Prices)

    You will visit Chikmagalur, Belur, Halebid and Mysore. Halebid flourished… from. $853. per adult. Reserve. ... This meticulously crafted 11 Nights and 12 Days itinerary presents a comprehensive exploration of Karnataka's finest attractions… Free cancellation. Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full ...

  13. 10 Famous Structures And Must-Visit Temples In Belur

    Carved idols on the outer wall of the Paathaaleshwara Temple, Belur, Karnataka, India. One of the most famous places in Belur, the Paathaaleshwara Temple is one of the ancient sculptures constructed by the Ganga kings. Known for the colour-changing lingam present at the temple, the place attracts thousands of tourists. Constructed by carving on ...

  14. Belur Travel Guide 2024: Best of Belur Tourism

    Top Places To Visit in Belur. Belur. Chennakesava Temple. Earlier known as the Vijayanarayana Temple, this is the prime attraction of th Belur Regio... 1 Review. Belur, Karnataka, India. Yagachi Bridge. Belur Village, Somwarpet, Belur 571236. Belur Golf Course.

  15. Belur Tourism

    Belur Chennakesava Temple, Hoysala Temples, Karnataka - history & architecture, travel guide & places to visit, sightseeing attractions, weather, map & timings. Belur was formerly called as Velapuri, it is one of the best heritage sites in Karnataka & Temple is dedicated to Lord Chennakesava, an incarnation of Vishnu

  16. Belur Fort is the famous tourist destination in Karnataka

    Belur was the early capital of the Hoysala Empire. With Halebidu which is only 16 km away, this is one of the major tourist destinations in Karnataka, India. Belur is located in Hassan district. According to inscriptions discovered here, it was also referred to as Velapuri.Belur is the Chennakesava temple complex which contains the Chennakesava ...

  17. 6 Places You Must Visit in Belur

    Being the art & archaic lovers, Hoysalas built numerous temples and monuments spread over in Karnataka during their extended ruling tenure. The architecture of temples and sculptures made in that era be the most incredible in the entire world. Out of hundred of magnificent temples, few most remarkable temples are in Belur and nearby places.

  18. Belur, Karnataka (2023)

    Places to Visit in Belur . 1. The Chennakeshava Temple Source The Channakeshava temple is one of the most sought after tourist attraction in Belur. This grand temple is dedicated to Lord Vijayanarayana, who is considered to be one of the 24 incarnations of Lord Vishnu. ... Lunch at Karnataka Hotels Belur: 01:30 PM - 01:45 PM Visit Hoysala style ...

  19. Belur and Halebidu Travel Guide

    The twin towns of Belur and Halebidu are located 17 km apart in the district of Hassan in Karnataka. Bangalore to Belur is roughly 220 km. via Hassan. Nestling on the banks of river Yagachi, the towns are home to some of the best temple architecture of the earlier eras and the engineering skills of the artisans of yore can be witnessed even today.

  20. Belur tourism

    Most popular places to visit in Belur, things to do in Belur, Belur travel itineraries with price calculator, sightseeing ticket details and timings etc +91 9886-52-52-53 ; [email protected]; Login; ... The temple of Belur followed the Karnataka Style of architecture.

  21. Belur, Karnataka

    Belur (IPA:) is a town and taluk in Hassan district in the state of Karnataka, India.The town is renowned for its Chennakeshava Temple dedicated to Vishnu, one of the finest examples of Hoysala architecture and the largest Hindu temple complex that has survived from pre-14th-century Karnata-Dravida tradition. A historic site inspired by the teachings of Ramanujacharya, [citation needed] it has ...

  22. Places to Visit

    Things to Do in Belur Karnataka. This article will uncover the things to do in Belur Karnataka. So, plan a one-week holiday. 1- Offer rituals at Chennakesava Temple. Among the places to visit in Karnataka, Sri Chennakesava Temple is an antique temple at Belur. The temple is a must-visit place in Belur trip packages.

  23. Belur Travel Guide, Places to see, Attractions

    When Halebidu was attacked by the North India's sultans, the kingdom moved their capital to Belur. From the 11 th to 13 th centuries, the Hoysalas ruled parts of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu from here. The main tourist activity in this area is temple viewing.