Belur Sightseeing: Places You Shouldn’t Miss on Your Visit

Belur, nestled in the Hassan district of Karnataka, is a place where history, spirituality, and art converge. Once the glorious capital of the Hoysala Empire, Belur flourished between the 10th and 14th centuries as a hub of culture, architecture, and devotion. Today, it is a serene town that draws visitors from across the globe to marvel at its centuries-old temples, intricate carvings, and heritage sites. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or a casual traveller, Belur places to visit range from centuries-old temples and intricate carvings to heritage sites that offer a captivating journey into Karnataka’s rich past, all while retaining the charm of a quiet countryside town.

Facade of Chennakesava Temple in Belur with a stone courtyard in front of the temple and under a blue sky on a sunny day

Chennakesava Temple (32 km from Hoysala Village Resort)

The Chennakesava Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is the crown jewel of the heritage of Belur. Karnataka Tourism recognises its architecture as one of the magnificent Hoysala temple complexes. Commissioned in the 12th century by King Vishnuvardhana, this temple is a masterpiece of Hoysala architecture and took 103 years and three generations to complete. Detailed stone carvings depicting scenes from Hindu epics, celestial beings, animals, and floral patterns cover every inch of its facade. The main sanctum holds the beautifully sculpted idol of Chennakesava, a figure that exudes grace and divinity. The temple’s intricate ceiling work and sculpted pillars stand as a testament to the extraordinary craftsmanship of the Hoysala artisans.

A dam filled with blue water with trees covering the entire waterbody under a vibrant blue sky

Yagachi Dam (32 km from Hoysala Village Resort)

If you are looking for a more laid-back outing, Yagachi Dam offers a refreshing escape into nature. This serene spot, built across the Yagachi River, is great for picnics and nature walks. Seasonal water sports, including kayaking and speed boating, make it a fun spot for families and groups. Surrounded by lush greenery, it is a great place to unwind after exploring Belur’s architectural wonders.

A Hindu temple standing tall under a hazy sky with people looking at the architecture and the carvings on the walls

Doddagaddavalli Temple (13 km from Hoysala Village Resort)

The Doddagaddavalli Temple is one of the earliest surviving examples of Hoysala temple architecture. Built in 1113 AD during the reign of King Vishnuvardhana, it is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and stands out for its unusual design, featuring four shrines that face four different directions. The temple's peaceful setting and ancient charm make it an ideal destination for spiritual visits and quiet reflection.

A pillar of a temple with intricate details and another pillar in the shadow behind it

Belavadi (37 km from Hoysala Village Resort)

Belavadi is home to the stunning Veeranarayana Temple. This temple, crafted from soapstone, is notable for its triple sanctum design, which houses three distinct forms of the Hindu deity Vishnu. Dating back to the 13th century, it is an exquisite example of Hoysala artistry but remains less known, which means fewer crowds and more time to admire its details. The intricate carvings, open courtyards, and serene ambience create a sense of stepping back in time.

An overview of Hoysaleswara temple in Belur with another temple in the distance.

Hoysaleswara Temple (25 km from Hoysala Village Resort)

Located in Halebeedu, the Hoysaleswara Temple is one of the most celebrated Hoysala monuments, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Built in the 12th century, it is renowned for its intricate soapstone carvings that depict scenes from Hindu epics like the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Bhagavata Purana. The temple’s star-shaped base, ornate outer walls, and detailed sculptures make it an architectural masterpiece. The nearby museum offers fascinating insights into Hoysala art and history, including the Garuda Stambha, making it a must-visit for both history enthusiasts and architecture lovers.

Facade of the luxury jacuzzi villas with an amazing sunset in the background in a vibrant sky at Hoysala Village Resort in Hassan.

Stay at Hoysala Village Resort

Located on Belur Road, Hoysala Village Resort is the perfect base for exploring Belur’s treasures. The resort offers spacious and well-appointed accommodations that blend traditional design with modern comforts. Guests can enjoy delectable local and multi-cuisine dishes at the in-house restaurants, while the landscaped gardens and open spaces provide a tranquil atmosphere. Enrich your stay with unique experiences, including guided heritage tours, dining in a treehouse, and birdwatching. The resort’s proximity to Belur and other Hoysala sites makes it an ideal choice for both leisure travellers and history lovers.

An overview of ancient columns in Belur with the sun's rays behind the clouds in the background.

The Charm of Hassan

Apart from the heritage sites, Hassan also has nature trails that you can enjoy. Take some peaceful lakeside walks and some photography sessions along the Hemvathy Reservoir and Dam. For an indulging lunch, Hassan invites you with culturally unique and healthy dishes such as Akki Roti made with rice flour primarily, Ragi Mudde made with finger millets as the name suggests, and some heart-warming Filter Coffee that lingers on your tastebuds even hours later.

An overview of the green mountain in the western ghats with the sun setting in the background.

A Paradise of the Past & the Present

The breezy wind from the past hits you the moment you step into Hassan. A rich heritage molded carefully by ancestors that invites you to admire them. The Earth paints its canvas over lakes and reservoirs for your eyes. So take that unforgettable journey. Make memories that become stories– stories that, one day, will return like a cool, breezy whisper at a family gathering. A splendid blend of heritage, nature and adventure is waiting to be brewed by you, come make a filter coffee-from-Hassan kinda memory with us, the one that lingers even a long time later!

An overview of a the interiors of the property designed in classic style - Hoysala Village Resort, Hassan

Where to Stay on a Hassan Trip from Bangalore?

On your getaway trip from Bangalore traffic to Hassan, in a refreshing new setting, we hope to make your trip more peaceful. At Hoysala Village Resort, we offer only the best that Hassan has to give. A picturesque stay with many additional facilities that help you relax, unwind and rejuvenate. At Hoysala, you explore outside the resort, as well as inside– because we present many strands of charming culture -be it Malnad’s rich cuisine, cottages with handmade Athangudi tiles and more. Come sip a hot brew as we add to your Hassan experience.

Belur is more than just a destination; it is a living museum of Karnataka’s golden age. From awe-inspiring temples to peaceful natural spots, each of these Belur sightseeing gems tells a story of artistry, devotion, and heritage. You can experience all of this with comfort and ease by staying at the Hoysala Village Resort, which ensures your trip is both enriching and relaxing. Whether you come for the history, the architecture, or the tranquil beauty of the countryside, Belur will leave you with memories that linger long after your visit.

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