The tranquil town of Hassan is situated at a distance of 194 kms from Bangalore in the south India state of Karnataka. This quiet and peaceful town is a convenient base to visit Shravanabelagola, Belur and Halebid. Hassan in Karnataka is the oldest town of Hoysala Empire of 11th to 13th century AD in India. Hassan has recently become a tourist destination on account of its proximity from Belur, Halebid and Sravanbelagola. The tourists stay at this small town to visit the adjacent travel destinations like Belur and Halebid famous for their antique temples.

Sightseeing at Hassan

Halebid : Situated 27 kms north-west of Hassan and 17 kms east of Belur, the temples of Halebid - like those of Belur - are the silent testimony to the rich cultural heritage of Karnataka. The Hoysaleswara Temple, dating back to the 12th century, is breathtaking for its awesome sculptural details. The walls of the temple are covered with an endless variety of gods and goddesses, animals, birds and dancing girls. This magnificent temple - guarded by a Nandi Bull - was never completed, despite 86 years of labour. The Jain basadis located nearby are equally rich in sculptural detail. 

Belur : This quaint hamlet - 38 kms from Hassan - is located on the banks of the river Yagachi. It was once the capital of the Hoysala Empire, today made memorable for its impressive temples. The Chennakeshava Temple is one of the finest examples of Hoysala architecture. It took 103 years to complete this temple. The facade of the temple is filled with intricately carved sculptures and friezes. The images of elephants, episodes from the epics, sensuous dancers, all awe-inspiring in their intricate workmanship. 

Shravanabelagola : Situated almost 51 kms southeast of Hassan, this is one of the most revered Jain pilgrimage centers. Here is the 17 m high monolith of Lord Bahubali - the world's tallest monolithic statue. Thousands of devotees gather here to perform the Mahamastakabhisheka -a spectacular ceremony held once in 12 years, when the 1000 -year- old statue is anointed with milk, curds, ghee, saffron and gold coins.