Halebid in
Karnataka, South India is one of the glorious towns of the former Hoysala
Empire. 16 km from Belur, some of the most convoluted carvings of the
Hoysalas, Halebid boast sculptures and structures typical yet unique,
reminiscent of the splendour of an ancient royal civilization. The grand
Hoyasaleswara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva is today the centre of
attraction here.
Halebid literally means ‘the ruined city’. During the 12th and
13th centuries AD, it flourished as the capital of the Hoysala Dynasty for
about 150 years. It was then known as Dwarasamudra (gateway to the seas).
However, it was twice attacked by invaders who robbed it of its treasures,
leaving behind the ruins of the once-magnificent Shiva temple.
Best Time & Climate :
The maximum and minimum temperatures in summers are 35 degree Celsius and
20 degree Celsius. Whereas, the maximum and minimum temperatures in winters
are 22 degree Celsius and 14 Celsius. Halebid enjoys a pleasant climate all
year round, with the monsoon from June to October. The best time to visit
Halebid is between November and April. The weather is fine with very little
rain and pleasant days.
How to get there ?
» By Air - The
nearest airports are Mangalore 148 km and Bangalore 216 km.
» By Rail - The nearest railway stations are Hassan
31 km and Banavar 31 km.
» By Road - Halebid is connected by road with major
cities. Bangalore -216 km, Belur-16km, Hassan-31km, Mysore-149km,
Sravanbelagola-102km.
Must Visit :
» Hoyasaleswara Temple - One of the finest specimens
of Hoysala architectural excellence, the Hoysaleswara Temple, dedicated to
Lord Shiva, is the most striking monument of Halebid. The most impressive
parts are its outer walls which have been covered over, almost every inch,
with friezes of amazing variety. The Hoysaleswara temple is built on a
star-shaped pedestal and is centred on a pillared hall. Within the
Hoysaleswara Temple premises is the archaeological museum which displays
masterpieces of stone craftsmanship.
» Belur - 16 km from Halebid, Belur is famous for
the Hoysala temples built during the 12th century. Along with Halebid, it
presents to the visitor some of the excellent and most refined Hindu art and
architecture.
» Sravanbelagola - 102 km via Belur and Hassan. A
well-known Jain piligrim centre.
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