Wow India Travel

High Season : Oct - Mar

29 - 31℃

Low Season : Apr - Sep

24 - 29℃

Nearest Airport -IXE

Mangalore International Airport

Nearest Train Stations -CMGR

Chikkamagaluru Railway Station

History

Belur is a small town in Hassan district in the state of Karnataka. In the 11th century, the town was once the capital of the Hoysala Empire. As per findings it was known as Velur or Velapuri during those times. The Hoysalas invested in the spiritual and cultural development of the town and referred to it as " Vaikuntha"(abode of Lord Vishnu). Belur gradually rose to be a Vaishnava Hindu pilgrimage center and Monasteries town. The town is renowned for its Chennakeshava Temple dedicated to Vishnu, one of the finest examples of Hoysala architecture and the largest Hindu temple complex that has survived from pre-14th-century Karnata-Dravida tradition. A historic site inspired by the teachings of Ramanujacharya, it has been a Vaishnava Hindu pilgrimage center since at least the 12th-century. It was also the first capital of the Hoysala dynasty before they built Dorasamudra.

Facts & Culture

Known as the 'jewels of the Indian cultural heritage' Belur and Halebid are adorned with the legacy of rich past and culture. Belur is mainly known for its prime attraction the Chennakesava Temple dedicated to Chennakesava or Lord Vishnu. The figures on the ceilings and pillars inside are quite an architectural marvel. The temple is surrounded by the Kappe Chnnegraya temple and a few more. Shantaleshwara temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is another marvel of Hoysala Architecture a few kilometers away from Belur. The town is famous for the glorious Hoysala Mahotsava- music, art, and dance festival held at the Hoysala temples in the month of March. Halebidu the former capital of Hoysalas around 17 kilometers from Belur is full of architectural splendors of the times. Dodagaddavalli 15 kilometers away from Belur is a tranquil village famous for Lakshmidevi Temple. Jain Temples near Shravanabelagola are also a popular site near Belur.