Belur and Halebid
The temples of Belur and Halebid are intricately carved and stunning. The magnifence of the sculpture tells you a bit about the importance of art and culture in the Hoysala empire.
A visit to Shravanabelagola to complete the temple circuit is a must.
The monolithic Gomateshwara statue -- probably the tallest in India and sacred to the Jains -- is a special attraction around here too.
"Avoid visiting these twin temple towns on hot and sunny days. These places have stony pathways and tend to get extremely hot during peak summer afternoons. Plan a journey early in the day or once the sun starts to set," says Amit Singh, a Bangalore-based programmer.
How to get there
Belur is about 222 km from Bangalore. It takes about four hours by road to reach this little town. Halebid is a further 16 km away. You can choose to either drive down or take a direct bus or a daily train from Bangalore to Hassan. Hassan is just 40 km or a one hour's drive from Belur.
Belur to Halebid can be covered by taxi, bus, hired bicycle, or autorickshaw. It is advisable to take the conducted tours or hire a car if you want to make the most of the Belur and Halebid circuit.
The complete Belur-Halebid circuit can be done in a day from Bangalore. Since accommodation is a bit of a problem in Belur and Halebid loo at booking a hotel in Hassan.
Where to stay
Hotel Mayura Velapuri, Belur
(Single bed: Rs 135, Double bed: Rs 155, Two dormitories with 20 beds: Rs 35 per head)
Phone: (08177) 22209
KSTDC, Belur
e-mail: belur-hotels@hotelskarnataka.com
Web site:
www.journeymart.com/holidays-getaways/India/belur
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