The Hoysala temples of Belur and Halebidu, with intricate soapstone carving, are a candidate UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Chennakeshava temple at Belur and the Hoysaleswara temple at Halebidu are showpieces of 12th-century Hoysala sculpture. They lie in Hassan district. The Somanathapura temple, near Mysuru, is another of the Hoysala trio. A day trip from Bengaluru is exhausting; an overnight in Hassan or Belur is more relaxed.
| Distance | About 220 km west of Bengaluru |
|---|---|
| Travel time | About 4.5-5.5 hours each way by road |
| Getting there | Mode: Car or bus; Detail: KSRTC buses from Majestic to Hassan or Belur; trains to Hassan |
| Cost | Belur and Halebidu ASI ticket fees are small; verify |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Address | Chennakeshava Temple, Belur, Hassan district, Karnataka 573115, India |
How to get there
- Bus: KSRTC from Majestic to Belur or Hassan, ₹350-900 (approx $3.65-9.38 USD)
- Car with driver: about ₹6,500-10,000 (approx $68-104 USD) for a two-day return
- Train: services to Hassan, followed by 35-40 km road transfer
- Organised tour: Hoysala circuit tours with Sravanabelagola
Location
Chennakeshava Temple, Belur, Hassan district, Karnataka 573115, India
13.1652, 75.8655 View on map
Highlights
- Chennakeshava temple, Belur
- Hoysaleswara temple, Halebidu
- Sravanabelagola Gomateshwara statue
Tips for visiting
- Overnight in Hassan is best
- Temples close in the evening
- Wear modest clothing
When to visit
October to February.
Frequently asked questions
Can Belur and Halebidu be visited in one day?
It is a very long day; an overnight stay is recommended.
How far apart are they?
About 16 km.