The historic town of Halebidu in Karnataka’s Hassan district, the Hoysaleswara Temple is a breathtaking example of 12th-century Hoysala architecture. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this architectural marvel attracts tourists, devotees, historians, and art lovers from across the world. The temple stands as a testimony to the skill of Hoysala artisans and the grandeur of their cultural legacy.
Temple About
Hoysaleswara Temple is a 12th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Halebidu, Hassan district of Karnataka. It is renowned for its intricate Hoysala architecture and historical significance.
Temple Description
Built in 1121 CE during the reign of King Vishnuvardhana of the Hoysala Empire, the temple is a twin-shrine (dvikuta) dedicated to Hoysaleswara and Shantaleswara (named after the king and queen). It features elaborate carvings depicting Hindu epics such as the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Bhagavata Purana. The temple sits on a star-shaped platform and is made of soapstone.
Temple Specialty
Exquisite soapstone sculptures and carvings
Star-shaped architecture (stellate plan)
Depictions of Hindu mythology across over 240 wall panels
No traditional gopuram (tower), yet unique and artistic in layout
Recognized as a masterpiece of Hoysala architecture
Temple Address
Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu, Belur Taluk, Hassan District, Karnataka – 573121, India
Temple Location (Latitude & Longitude)
12.9996° N, 76.0012° E
Temple Timings
Open all days: 6:30 AM to 9:00 PM
No entry fee
Ideal to visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid heat and enjoy the carvings in natural light
Temple Sevas
As it is an archaeological site managed by the ASI (Archaeological Survey of India), regular pujas and rituals are limited, but basic offerings and prayers can be made to Lord Shiva.
Traveling Facilities
Road: Good roads connect Halebidu to major towns like Hassan, Belur, and Chikmagalur
Private Taxis and Auto-rickshaws available
Buses operate frequently from Hassan and nearby towns
Food Facilities
Small local restaurants and eateries available near the temple
Basic South Indian meals, snacks, and refreshments
No food inside the temple premises
Stay Facilities
Lodges and budget hotels available in Halebidu and Belur
Better accommodation options (mid-range to premium) available in Hassan city (~32 km away)
KSTDC guesthouses also available nearby
Nearby Railway Station
Hassan Railway Station – ~32 km from Halebidu,Well-connected to Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Mangalore
Nearby Airport
Mangalore International Airport (IXE) – ~168 km
Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (BLR) – ~230 km
Nearby Bus Station
Halebidu Bus Stand – Local and KSRTC buses available
Belur Bus Stand – ~16 km
Hassan Bus Stand – Well connected with intercity buses
Bus Routes to Temple
KSRTC buses from Bangalore → Hassan → Halebidu
Direct buses from Mysore, Chikmagalur, Belur
Auto-rickshaws/taxis available from Hassan or Belur
Train Routes to Temple
Trains to Hassan Railway Station from major cities like Bengaluru, Mysore, Mangalore
From Hassan, taxis or buses to Halebidu (32 km)
Airways to Temple
Fly to Mangalore or Bengaluru
Take road/rail to Hassan, then continue to Halebidu by road
Nearby Cities to Temple
Hassan – 32 km
Belur – 16 km
Chikmagalur – 40 km
Mysore – 150 km
Bengaluru – 220 km
Nearby Visiting Temples & Attractions
Chennakesava Temple, Belur (Hoysala marvel)
Kedareshwara Temple, Halebidu
Jain Basadis (Parshvanatha Basadi)
Yagachi Dam near Belur
Shravanabelagola – Jain pilgrimage center (~85 km)
Chikmagalur – Coffee estates and Mullayanagiri Hills
Preferable Visiting Season
October to March – Pleasant climate and ideal for sightseeing
Avoid summer afternoons as it gets hot, especially around stone structures
Shopping Famous For?
Local handicrafts and stone sculptures
Traditional silk sarees from nearby regions
Coffee powder and local spices from Chikmagalur region
The Hoysaleswara Temple is not just a place of worship but a living museum of medieval Indian art, culture, and architecture. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, a heritage lover, or an art enthusiast, this temple offers an unforgettable experience steeped in history and serenity. A visit to this gem of Karnataka is truly a journey through the golden era of Hoysala artistry.
