About Halebidu Temple Heritage Tour
About Halebidu:
- The Halebidu Temple Heritage Tour offers an immersive journey into the artistic and spiritual grandeur of Karnataka’s Hoysala dynasty. Situated in the Hassan district, Halebidu—formerly known as Dwarasamudra—served as the flourishing capital of the Hoysalas in the 12th and 13th centuries. Though later ravaged by invasions, the town remains a testament to a golden era of temple architecture and is currently a UNESCO World Heritage site nominee.
- The tour's centerpiece is the Hoysaleswara Temple, a stunning twin-shrine complex dedicated to Lord Shiva, renowned for its exquisite soapstone carvings, detailed friezes, and a profusion of mythological and secular motifs that reflect the height of Hoysala craftsmanship.
- The tour also includes a visit to Belur, home to the iconic Chennakesava Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Commissioned by King Vishnuvardhana to commemorate a major military victory, the temple dazzles with its symmetrical layout, ornate sculptures, and star-shaped platform—hallmarks of Hoysala design.
- Complementing these sites is a stop at Shravanabelagola, one of the most important Jain pilgrimage centers in India, famous for its towering 57-foot monolithic statue of Lord Gommateshwara (Bahubali), an awe-inspiring symbol of renunciation and spiritual victory.
- Together, these heritage sites offer a rich tapestry of medieval South Indian art, devotion, and history, drawing not only pilgrims and history enthusiasts but also connoisseurs of architecture and sculpture from around the world.
Destinations Covered:
- Bengaluru
- Hassan
- Halebidu
- Belur
- Shravanabelagola
- Optional: Chikmagalur
Attractions
- Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu 12th-century Shiva temple known for its exquisite Hoysala architecture and over 240 intricately carved sculptures.
- Kedareshwara Temple, Halebidu Another lesser-known but equally captivating Hoysala structure nearby.
- Chennakesava Temple, Belur Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, famous for its artistic friezes and carvings.
- Shravanabelagola Sacred Jain site with a 57-ft tall statue of Bahubali, one of the largest monolithic statues in the world.
- Optional: Mullayanagiri Hills or Coffee Estates in Chikmagalur for a nature and culture blend.
Itinerary Detail
- Pick-up from Bengaluru Airport or Railway Station.
- Scenic drive to Hassan, gateway to Hoysala temples.
- Evening at leisure or visit local temples.
- Overnight Stay: Hassan
- Visit Hoysaleswara Temple and Kedareshwara Temple in Halebidu.
- Later, proceed to Belur to explore Chennakesava Temple, a marvel of Hoysala craftsmanship.
- Return to Hassan.
- Overnight Stay: Hassan
- Morning drive to Shravanabelagola, Jain pilgrimage site.
- Climb Vindhyagiri Hill to witness the grand Bahubali statue and panoramic views.
- Explore nearby temples and history museum (optional).
- Return to Hassan.
- Overnight Stay: Hassan
- Optional excursion to Chikmagalur for a blend of coffee heritage and nature.
- Visit Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka, or enjoy local coffee estate tours.
- Return to Hassan by evening.
- Overnight Stay: Hassan
- After breakfast, drive back to Bengaluru.
- Drop at airport or railway station for onward journey.
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Package Inclusions:
- Accommodation in deluxe hotels/guesthouses on double sharing.
- Daily vegetarian breakfast and dinner.
- Private AC vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing.
- Toll, parking, fuel, and driver charges.
- Assistance at arrival and departure.
- Guided visits to all listed temples and sites.
Package Exclusions:
- Airfare/train tickets to/from Bengaluru.
- Monument entry fees, camera charges.
- Personal expenses like tips, laundry, and beverages.
- Optional tours (e.g., Chikmagalur), pooja or donation charges.
- Travel insurance and medical expenses.