Places to visit at Hassan

Overview

 Shravanabelagola is situated about 150 km northwest of Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka. The town has been a prominent centre for Jain art, architecture, religion and culture for over two millennia. About two thousand years ago, Bhagawan Bhadrabahu, the earliest among the great Jain Acharyas came to Shravanabelagola from Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, with his disciples. Influenced by this ascetic, Chandragupta Maurya, the great emperor who ruled a large part of India, settled in this region, handing over the reins of his kingdom to his son.

Monolith of Lord Gomateshwara

 Wedged between two stark rocky hills, the monolithic statue of Lord Gomateshwara, a Jain saint and an object of worship for centuries, standing atop one of the hills (Indragiri hill), is 18 meters high and is said to be one of the tallest and most graceful monolithic statues in the world.

History behind the Monolith

 Lord Gomateshwara, also known as Balubali, was the son of the first Jain Teerthankara, Lord Adinatha. Challenged by his brother Bharatha over the succession to the throne, Bahubali took on Bharatha in a duel that involved three forms – Drishtiyuddha, Mallayuddha and Jalayuddha. Though Bahubali finally emerged victorious, he was overwhelmed by both the enormity and the futility of the desirefor material wealth – a pursuit that set brother against brother. He then renounced his kingdom and all other worldly pleasures. Bahubali stood in deep meditation and radiated the glow of spiritual tranquility. Chavundaraya, prime minister and commander-in-chief of the Ganga Kingdom, consecrated the statue of Bahubali in a meditative form in 981 AD.

 Just opposite is the smaller Chandragiri hill where some Jain temples and tomb of Chandragupta Mourya, famous patron of Jainism can be seen.

The Mahamastakabhisheka

 The Mahamastakabisheka festival, an elaborate ritual, held here once every 12 years, the last one in 2006, attracts devotees from all over the world. Priests climb up to pour hundreds of pots of tender coconut water, turmeric paste, vermilion powder, sugarcane juice, milk, rice flour, kashaya (a herbal concoction), shrigandha (sandal paste), chandana (coloured sandal paste), ashtagandha (eight varieties of sandal paste), saffron, gold and silver flowers, and precious stones over the statue’s head. A spectacular finale to this splendid ceremony is a shower of flowers from a helicopter.

Location

 Shravanabelagola is a town located near Channarayapatna of Hassan district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is 51 km from Hassan city and 150 km from Bengaluru.

Overview

 Are you looking after a truly divine feeling? If yes, then visiting Haasanamba Temple would take you to a wonderful experience by far. It is said to be a very powerful, wish granting as well as peaceful place one will ever go! This temple is located in Hassan, Karnataka and is dedicated to the goddess Shakti. It is said that during the rule of Hoysala dynasty in twelfth century A.D. an idol was found with its face wearing a pleasant smile. Hasana Mukhi or a smiling face was transformed into Hassan. Two other temples is also present in the premises, which is dedicated to, Darbar Ganapati and Siddeshwara. The three idols installed here are said to be of three thieves, who had allegedly come to steal the idol of the presiding deity, Sri Hasanamba, and earned her wrath. Not only is it well-decorated and maintained, but also very auspicious, the strongest and main deity of Hassan. So, if you are planning to go over, then do remember that it opens only twelve days once in a year during Indian Hindu Festival; Diwali.

Location

 Situated inside the Hassan city.

Overview

 Shettihalli Rosary Church, was built in the 1860s, is one of the awesome places to visit near Hassan to experience breathtaking beauty, historic vibe and mesmerizing monument by far. If you are a nature or an art lover, you will get an immense opportunity to see this ancient church’s magnificent structure! Plus, it is a must see for any traveler because its surrounding is very scenic and peaceful, provides absolutely beautiful & spectacular view. On top of everything – It is one of the best among places you see in Hassan that creates a picturesque sight. All in all, one can also easily enjoy the surreal beauty of the church because of the fact – It is in the bank of the Hemavathi River.

Location

 Shettihalli Rosary Church is located in Shettihalli village of Hassan district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is 21 km from Hassan city .

Overview

 When it comes to enticing landscape, maintained river bank and a surrounding full of greenery in Hassan, Gorur Dam witnesses the top rank. It is completely one of the splendid and beautiful places one can ever visit, providing great views and attracting a lot of tourists at the same time! Built in 1979, Gorur dam has been constructed across Hemavati River, an important tributary of the Kaveri. This dam is just 25 kilometers away from Hassan; however, people enthusiastically reach the spot to enjoy the panoramic view, fresh and soothing air by far. All in all, one may also go for leisure because the place is amazingly good, scenery as well as striking picnic spot at large. The temples of Sri Paravasudeva and Sri Yoganarasimha are very close to the dam and are popular tourist destinations.>/p>

 The best time to visit Hemavati reservoir is the period between October and March.

Location

 Gorur Dam is located in Konapura village of Hassan district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is 25 km from Hassan city and 16.5 km from Shettihalli Rosary Church.

Overview

 It is one of the lovely, blissful and calm places with a lot of positive vibes. Japadakatte Hindu Temple is an ideal, nice and decent location for meditation because it is neatly maintained and very clean. The best part is – You can spend quality time and moments with family and friends. Japadakatte Hindu Temple is on the bank of Kaveri River that is wonderfully superb and serene by far. With that being said – When it comes to encouraging deep meditation within ourselves, the spot also offers great opportunities to experience relaxation and peace at hand; furthermore, a refreshing environment for performing spiritual activities.Ultimately, it is a good historic and devotional place where you can also get to see a beautiful lord Shiva Temple.

Location

 Japadakatte is located in Hebsur village of Dharwad district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is 63 km from Hassan city and 203 km from Bengaluru.

Overview

 Doddagaddavalli Lakshmi Devi is an interesting historical and ancient Hoysala Temple with beautiful surrounding in place. It is located in Doddagaddavalli that is a village in Hassan District in the state of Karnataka, India. With an amazing piece of Hoysala Architecture, it is highly suggested everyone to explore the temple and experience a beautiful sunrise from this stunning work of art. To add more – It is located almost about 8 km from Halebidu, is very intricately curved too. One of the amazing things to notice is – It still looks crisp and well-maintained after several hundred years of its construction. Ultimately, Doddagaddavalli Lakshmi Devi Temple is very peaceful, quaint & serene completely away from the hustle bustle of the main city!

Location

 Lakshmi Devi Temple is located in Doddagaddavalli village of Hassan district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is 16 km from Hassan city.

Overview

 From enjoying the beauty of art, unique design and architecture, along with an awesome sculptor work, Hoysaleshwara Temple (Halebidu temple) is one of the best examples of the Hoysala Architecture. A must place to visit. The temple was built on the banks of a large man-made lake, and sponsored by King Vishnuvardhana of the Hoysala Empire. Its construction started around 1121 CE and was complete in 1160 CE. Though the temple was twice sacked and plundered by cruel muslim invaders during 14th centuring, still we can see the magnificent glory of Hoysala Empire. The temple is mainly dedicated to Lord Shiva, but themes and images from Vaishnavism and Shaktism and Jainism are included. Sequences from Ramayana, Mahabharatha & Bhagavatha are depicted on the outer walls of these temples. The efficiency and experience of the sculpture, who had carved these stories in stone is bewitching.

Location

 Hoysaleshwara Temple is located in Halebidu town of Hassan district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is 30 km from Hassan city and about 210 kilometres from Bengaluru.

Overview

 Absolutely worth the visit! You will experience a brilliant architecture as it is built on a high rise platform, and finding two well-decked sculptors of Elephants at an entrance will be an amazing feeling, though. With awesome design and symmetry, Veeranarayana Swamy Temple is now declared as a national monument that is maintained user ASI (The Archaeological Survey of India). The best part is – the science that was being used to getting it in place was amazingly superb and advanced altogether. What is more fascinating is – it is one of the oldest and amazing sculptures in India, and a noteworthy example of Hoysala Architecture by far. And, during your visit to the place – You would be mesmerized by the intricate carving by the artisans on the walls of the temple that makes the place even more silent and wonderful to feel its beauty and greatness. Overall, if you are looking to experience an ethereal beauty, Veeranarayana Swamy Temple should be your first choice, and will take a few minute of drive from Halebidu.

Location

 Veeranarayana Swamy Temple is located in Belavadi village of Chikkamagaluru district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is 42 km from Hassan city and 12 km from Halebidu.

Overview

 From enjoying the beauty of art, unique design and architecture, along with an awesome sculptor work, Belur Chennakeshava Temple is one of the best examples of the Hoysala Architecture, and a world famous tourist destination. The temple is situated on the banks of river Yagachi, 38 km from Hassan. Belur Chennakeshava Temple was consecrated by the famous Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana to mark his victories in 1116 AD against the Cholas and called the Vijaya Narayana. Not only will you love the minute details, but also art works that is of top quality and excellence. When it comes to its stone carvings, that’s what make the place importantly very stunning which travel enthusiasts appreciate too much! This historical monument is also a must visit place since this is well-maintained by The Government of India. So, in case you are wondering how about the road conditions; thus, be rest assured – all roads, connecting to the temple is well-preserved, and in good condition. Therefore, it is highly recommended to visit and enjoy the spot with family and friends.

Location

 Chennakeshava Temple is located in Belur town of Hassan district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is 39 km from Hassan city.

Overview

 If you love the lush green, serene atmosphere, various relaxing water sports’ activities, then Yagachi Dam and its panoramic view is beyond the description and appreciation. From enjoying the blissful and pleasant weather, nature and backwaters to banana boat ride, cruise boat, speed boat, kayaking and jet skiing, you always get the most out of Yagachi Dam. The best part is – It offers a very cool and friendly weather, so you can enjoy the boat riding with your friends and family. To add more – You will find a small ornamental garden, plus there is a pathway that comes to provide one with an excellent view of dam and surrounding water. Ultimately, it is a must visit place to enjoy the walk with nature, and to have photographic view of the water side by side.

Location

 Chennakeshava Temple is located in Belur town of Hassan district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is 42 km from Hassan city and near to Belur Chennakeshava Temple.

Overview

 A masterpiece of Hoysala Architecture, very ancient and historic, Bucheshvara Temple is completely dedicated to Lord Shiva. From the inscriptions on the premises, good stone design, and remarkable sculptor to beautiful garden it’s surrounding, the place is worth the visit. On your way to the temple, you will find good road connectivity, making you discover nice and excellent carvings that come with unique style and construction. Since this is a less crowded as well as beautiful pace to visit near Hassan; however, its structure holds so compact and majestic, making people go stunningly impressed. Last, but not the least – the temple is protected as a monument of national importance by the Archeological Survey of India; thus, making travelers as well as tourists to enjoy a very calm and soothing environment by far.

Location

 Bucheshvara Temple is located in Korvangla village of Hassan district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is 12 km from Hassan city.

Overview

 If you seek for a great feeling of exquisite architecture of Hoysala, visiting Mudigere Sri Yoga Narasimha Swamy Temple is the only place you have in Hassan. Though, it is very old, beautiful and a must visit temple with a great history, it is highly recommended to go over and see for a lot of carvings as well as stone designs because of the fact – You will feel amazing and stunningly awesome by far. On top of everything – the lord Narasimha idol is very maintained and well-decorated; one will find it within a cave. Therefore, if you are planning the trip in Hassan, take it on to experience a lot of positive vibes. Furthermore, it is unexplored and unique; however, a great place for real-time peace and enjoyment with friends and family. One of the amazing things that attract eye-sights is – It is located at the bank of Krishna River, to spend quality time altogether!

Location

 Sri Yoga Narasimha Swamy Temple is located in Mudigere village of Chikkamagaluru district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is 24 km from Hassan city.

Overview

 Amazing and peaceful place one should be visiting by far! You would notice – Beautiful carvings, along with breathtaking architecture and a lot more! And, in terms to Ishvara Temple’s structure, designs on pillars, ceilings as well as exquisite walls, all awesome to make you fall in love with the location. In fact, the temple is dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva. It is located in the Hassan District of Karnataka that is well-maintained with superb sculptor. Therefore, for those who keen to love ancient architecture, the heritage built under Hoysala Architecture is a very good place for short visit. One of the best measures being taken is – ASI Staffs who ruthlessly as well as pleasingly help, guide and assist tourists in understanding every minute detail about the temple. Ultimately, a must visit place one should take on!

Location

 Ishvara Temple is located in Arasikere town of Hassan district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is 45 km from Hassan city.

Overview

 We quite fairly like places that encourage faith and bring us to an extent we, in turn, start loving everything that comes the way. In the similar manner, Panchalingeshwara Temple is one of the perfectly great reasons one should be visiting to enjoy the real beauty and stunning carvings of the place. The temple is just located at about 5 KM from Kikkeri, and the cool part is – It is covered across a beautiful village surrounding that serves a pleasant environment, and makes the place, even more interesting and worth visiting by far. In terms to its architecture, there will be a caretaker that stays productive to making the property clean and superb every now and then. On top of everything – You would observe, this temple is also well-maintained by Archeological Survey of India (ASI), and upon entering the temple, you will see a long pillared hall that is qualitatively very excellent in its centerpiece.

Location

 Panchalingeshwara Temple is located in Govindanahalli village of Mandya district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is 59 km from Hassan city.

Overview

 What if you are served with a complete silence? Yes, the place is awesomely great if you are visiting on weekends. From a lot of intricate and interactively beautiful stone carvings to architectural master piece, you have everything there to ensure you enjoy great time with friends and family. Not to forget – The temple belongs to Hoysala Period, and is very good, historic and spiritual. Altogether, it is one of the rarest temples you will ever see across India. The best thing to consider is –It is often less crowded, making people to visit the temple and keep special memory with them. Furthermore, the dedicated sculpture works of Hoysala Architectural Designs gave the place a great importance, in turn, travelers love to come over and giving attention to its detailing every now and then. Overall, a must visit place!

Location

 Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Temple is located in Nuggehalli village of Hassan district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is 46 km from Hassan city.