Belur

About

Halebid, literally meaning a ruined city, is a small town with several large tanks, highlighting its glorious past. Halebid, the great city of Dwarasamudra flourished as a capital of the Hoysala Empire during the 12th and 13th centuries, during which period it reached its greatness. The Delhi Sultanate’s armies sacked Halebid in 1311 and 1327; the good high profile city was ruined during this invasion. Halebid has several strikingly beautiful Hoysala temples and Jain shrines. These temples are sculptural extravaganza, richly endowed with most finely detailed scroll work in stone. One can see a hillock where the Palace stood, a sight having archaeological value and beauty.

Fact File:

• Distance: Hassan which is 185 km by road from Bangalore can be the base. Belur is 38 km from Hassan. Halebid is 17 km east of Hassan.

• Weather: Humid for past of the year.

• Clothing: Wear light cotton dresses, and carry loads of sunscreen!!