The capital of the Hoysala Kingdom during the 12th century was called Halebid. It was a centre of some of the country's finest architectural structures.
Situated around 33 km from Hassan, is Halebid, famous as a spiritual tourist attraction in Karnataka. Halebid is famous for the remnants of the exalted Hoyasala period in Indian History.
The prime tourist attraction in Halebid is the Hoyasaleswara temple. Although incomplete in its construction, this temple is the most outstanding example of Hoysala art and architecture. Excursions from Halebid can be made to Shravanbelgola, located around 48 km off Hassan and is famous for the statue of Lord Bahubali (Gomateshwar). The Mahamastakabhisheka of the statue of Bahubali in Shravanbelgola after every 12 years is a memorable event.
Being a spiritual place of prominence, Halebid is accessible by air, rail and road. Hassan, about 32 kms away is the nearest railway station and Bangalore, 226 kms away is the nearest airport.
By Air
The nearest airport from Halebid is Bangalore about 226 km from where you can catch flights for major destinations in India like Delhi, Calcutta, and Mumbai from here.
By Rail
The nearest railhead is Hassan about 32 km. It is well connected to Bangalore, Mysore, and Mangalore by regular trains.
By Road
Hassan is the base to travel to Halebid.Hassan is linked with Belur (38kms), Halebid (33kms), Shravanbelgola (50kms), Bangalore and Mysore by road.
Halebid, the temple town in Karnataka is a must see place for the spiritual tourist. Shopping in Halebid can be fascinating for tourists looking for stone idols, sculptures and terracotta items. Hassan enroute to Belur is also a good place for shopping for curios, which are typical of the state of Karnataka.
Karnataka has a rich tradition of handicrafts and silk sarees, sandalwood, ivory brassware and wooden toys that you can buy in Bangalore from the government-sponsored emporia or from the numerous shopping malls in Bangalore.
