Government of Karnataka

Department of Tourism
Blazing trail of Golden Era
Tourist Guide of Hassan District.

Hassan District Tourist Map

Distance from Hassan

Belur

39 Km

Gorur

23 Km

Bellary

302 Km

Jog Falls

260 Km

Halebeedu

30 Km

Arakalagud

30 Km

Belgaum

467 Km

Sringeri

160 Km

Shravanabelagola

52 Km

Ramanathapura

50 Km

Bijapur

545 Km

Horanadu

128 Km

Nuggehalli

52 Km

Channarayapatna

38 Km

Chitradurga

180 Km

Kalasa

120 Km

Koravangala

10 Km

Anekere

43 Km

Chikkamagalore

Kuduremukh

140 Km

Kondajji

18 Km

Gendekatte

05 Km

Dharwad

386 Km

Kukkesubrahmanya 120 Km

Haranahalli

35 Km

Javagal

42 Km

Gulbarga

620 Km

Melukote

90 Km

Arasikere

45 Km

Kenchammana

Kolar

255 Km

Nanjangud

144 Km

Malekal Tirupathi

47 Km

Hosakote

45 Km

Karwar

380 Km

Chamarajanagar

175 Km

Arakere

57 Km

Holenarasipura

30 Km

Mangalore

170 Km

Hospet

260 Km

Shanthigrama

15 Km

Alur

16 Km

Mysore

126 Km

Hampi

270 Km

Doddagaddhavalli

20 Km

Belasinda Forest

35 Km

Mandya

120 Km

Udupi

230 Km

Sakaleshpur

40 Km

Kadumane Estate

70 Km

Madikeri

120 Km

Talacauvery

150 Km

46 Km

Garudanagiri

75 Km

Raichur

435 Km

Kollu

300 Km

110 Km

Yadakumari

78 Km

Shimoga

160 Km

Murudeshwara

340 Km

Manjarabad Fort
Bisile Ghat

62 Km

Mosale

12 Km

Bangalore

190 Km

Tumkur

140 Km

K.R Sagar

Sri Ramadevarakatte

25 Km

Bidar

706 Km

Dharmasthala

115 Km

Srirangapatna

84 Km
103 Km

Somanathapur

145 Km

Kemmannugundi

102 Km

Talakadu

170 Km

Dattatreya Peeta

Shimsha

185 Km

Belavadi

Yadiyur

90 Km

86 Km

Hosaholalu

82 Km

45 Km

Basaralu

110 Km

HASSAN
Blazing Trail of A Bygone Era
People who dont have dreams, dont have much
They had dreams and they knew how to realize them. And
they found Hassan. The temple trail of magnificent Hoysala
architecture, the district resplendent with wide stretches of
woods, coffee plantations, paddy fields and a scenic skyline is
ostensibly the major highlight of any tourist map of South India.
It had reached its height of glory during the rule of Hoysalas.
Hassan is the mass of earth which is a geographical confluence
of Western Ghats, Semi Ghats and Deccan Plateau. A veritable
treasure house of Hoysala architecture every nook and corner of
Hassan District tells us a tale of the super craftsmanship and the
high values of life embedded in stone by the people of that bye
gone era. The District is also noted for its enchanting natural
scenery of Malnad.
Hassan beckons tourists of every hue, be he and historian,
student of archaeology religion or interested in cultural traditions
or a student of modern development. It is the place where every

interest is kindled and all sorts of an academic thirst quenched.

All the eight taluks of Belur, Arasikere, Holenarasipur and
Channarayapatna have lot to offer to the traveler.
Geographical Location:
Situated between 12-31 and 13-33 north latitude and 75-38
east longitude, Hassan District is in the southwestern part of the
state. The greatest length of the district, from north to south is
about 129 kms its greatest breadth from east to west, is about
116 kms, it is bounded on the north by Chikkamagalur District.,
on the east by Tumkur and Mandya Districts, on the south by
Mysore and Kodagu Districts and on the west by DakshinaKannada District.
Political History:

In the early period of the known history of this region of

the state, parts of this district were included in the kingdoms of
the Kadambas and the Western Gangas. But the district is more
particularly indentified with the rise of the Hoysala power. The
Hoysala kingdom, which had been extended vastly, was very
prosperous. Vijayanagar kings and then the Mysore Rajas held
having over the district until independence.

Having been divided in two broad natural divisions, each

with a district character of its own, the Malnad on the west and
the maid an on the east having a long strip of land in between the
two exhibiting in some measure characteristics of both the
district enjoys a moderate and pleas at climate and benefits of
both monsoons.
There are places like Bisile Ghat and Kempuhole Ghat
with magnificent and charming scenery, the dry lands of
districts, the thick evergreen forests of Manjarabad and the
serene atmosphere around Shukravarasanthe provide a
diversified picture of the district.
The people of the district who were fond of dreaming are
also fond of their jatras and fares, which are held in many parts
of the district. These jatras and fares are usually annual features
organized in honor of a deity of a local temple or saint and in
many cases the taking our of the idol in a ratha with procession
forms an important part. A large number of jatras take place in
this district.

Hassan nestled prople of great craftsmanship which in a

way gave birth to the adage, the first, the best and the most
perfect of instruments is the human hand. When we see the
exquisitely carved temples of Belur and Halebeedu we cannot
but be wonder struck by the highly skilled craftsmanship
displayed here.

The huge monolithic statue of Gommateshwara at

Shravanabelagola is a standing example of the skilled
workmanship of the old days. In praise of the place where the
statue is standing, it has been said that, In the whole beautiful
state of Karnataka, it would be hard to find a spot, here the
historic and picturesque clasp hands so firmly as here. The
noted historian Mr. Fergusson considers the decorative sculpture
of the Halebeedu and Belur temples, as the most marvelous
exhibits of human labour to be found even in the patient east.
The district which cradled the Hoysalan style of
architecture was also a land of reverence for Jainism, another
faith that flourished in this part of the state, and which also
contributed to the cause of architecture, life-style, literature and
politics of the district.
Jainism reigned supreme in this part and was instrumental
in contributing its mite to the development of literature as well

as temple building culture. Many jain bastis have been dotted the
earth line of Hassan.
The earliest records of Kannada language and the legacy of
Kannada empires can be found in the many sculptures found in
and around Shravanabelagola. It is very aptly described as the
historical archive of Karnataka.

Halmidi Inscription

Halmidi:
Though a pinhead on the district map of Hassan, the part
played by Halmidi in the history of Karnataka and Kannada
language is unimaginable. In here we found the first written
record of the Kannada language. Known as the Halmidi
inscription of HALMIDI SHASANA in Kannada, this
inscription dating back to 1500 years provides us with the
historical document that reveals the historical ancestry of
Kannada language. It is the first available document of Kannada
language. Inscribed during the period of Kadambad the first
Kannada Dynasty. The language used in this inscription is
Kannada and there is no other inscription found in this language
written earlier to Halmidi inscription. Hence the place has
carved a permanent niche in the annals of Kannada History.
Of course the inscription is
safely procured and exhibited on the

Government museum in Bangalore.

The residents of Halmidi, to
commemorate
the
historical
prominence of the place, have
erected a mantapa in the village and
the enthusiastic Kannada lover
makes it a point to visit this place on
his itinerary of the Hassan District.
Halmidi is small village in the
northern tip of Belur taluk.

Jainism has long been one of the religions followed in

Karnataka since ancient days. Its influence probably dates from
a period of anterior to the introduction of Buddism. The first
structures raised for religious purposes by the Jains were in the
wood and it was only in later days that the uses of stone become
more general.
The monuments constructed by the Jains are Jinalayas or
Basadis, which are temples dedicated to one or other jain saints
called Thirthankaras and stambhas or pillars and memorial slabs
or veeragals.
Jainism, Vaishnavism and Shaivism flourished side by side in
the reign of Vishnuvardhana though he converted himself in to
Vaishavism, he was not hostile to others creed and contributed
to patronize the institutions of other sects. Communal harmony
was the thing that virtually ruled the state of affairs in those days
and Hassan, the seat of power of Hoysala dynasty was known

for its tolerance, love for peace and in the meantime for its
velour.
Contribution of the Hoysalas to the evolution of the district
style of their architecture is very aptly appreciated by Fergusson
who says The great value of the study of these Indian examples
is that it widens so immensely our basis for architectural
criticism. It is only by becoming familiar with forms utterly
dissimilar from those we have hitherto been conversant with,
that we perceive how narrow is the purview that is content with
one form or one passing fashion. By rising to this wider range,
we shall perceive that architecture is as many sided as human
nature itself and learn how few feeling and how few aspirations
of the human heart and brain there are that cannot be expressed
by its means..
It we delve upon studying the human nature through the
possible part of architecture we come across many gems. The
search for these gems can be done following these circuits
mentioned herein. Happy Hunting!
Anekere:
On the way to Channarayapatna, if one deviate to the
south-west about 5 kms from the highway is Anekere.
Channakeshava temple here stands majestically bearing
testimony to the skills of architects of Hoysala era. The name

Anekere was derived

from two big tanks at
Anekere which are
gigantic in size. The
temple
resembles
another
temple
at
Hullekere of Arasikere
taluk and is almost a
Channakeshava Temple, Anekere.

replica of that temple. The temple of Anekere was built in

1119AD.

Shravanabelagola:
13 kms south-east of taluk headquarters Channarayapatna,
Shravanabelagola is a well known place of pilgrimage for the
Jains. Lying between two rocky hills namely Indragiri and
Chandragiri. Sharavanabelagola is also termed as Dakshina
Kashi. The gigantic statue of Gommateswara a top the hill
Indragiri is carved out of a single rock and is awe inspiring. The
wonders and contemplative and serene expression and the
mystic smile on the, most perfectly carved idols face leaves a
lasting impression on the visitor.

Gommata represents the highest values of life,

renunciation selflessness. It symbolizes mans victory over
Karma. A saint in perfect peace with himself and all else in the
universe, Gommata stands majestically shunning all worldly
virtues. Shravanabelagola is also a place where history unfolds
itself. Here one can find lot of inscriptions and sculptures which
reveal the rich history of Karnataka, the development of Jainism
in the state.
Mahamastakabhisheka:
No tour of Hassan will be complete without a mention of
Mahamastakabhisheka
to
Lord
Gommeteshwara
at
Shravanabelagola. The statue of Bahubali or Lord
Gommateshwara standing tall at a whopping 58 feet is a saga of
architectural marvel. Though gigantic in nature, the specialty of
the statue is that even for an inch and in any given region it does
not look out of proportions. The art of sculpting has reached its
zenith here. The perfectly carved, breathtaking statue is the
standing testimony to the skill of the sculptor.

Mahamastakabhisheka.

The poignant Gommateshwara stands stark naked

renouncing all restraints of this mortal world. But still there
never a shade of vulgarity in this nudism, instead the onlooker
will be dwarfed before the sublime image of Lord
Gommateshwara. He stands aloof as symbol of angelic victory
of man over the worldly thirst.
Mahamastakabhisheka, the head anointing ceremony of
Lord Gommateshwara takes place every 12 years and it is a
spectacle to be seen to be believed. Mastakabhisheka means
sacred bath. During the given propitious moments, amidst
chanting of Mantras and recitation of religious texts, the gigantic
statue will be bathed with sacred water kept in 1008 Kalashasreceptacles - which has been collected from almost all the rivers
and water resources of the land.

Views of Chandragiri, Shravanabelagola.

After which tender coconut water, sugarcane juice,

plantain fruits, jiggery, ghee, sugar, badam, dates, milk, curds,
sandal paste, gold and silver flowers and silver coins will be
poured over the head of Lord Gommateshwara. The panoramic
vision is unsurpassed in its grandeur and seeing each of these
items cascading down through the titanic statue is tantalizing.
The event attracts lakhs of devotees from all over the country
and abroad. The sleeping village of Shravanabelagola comes to
life and throbs like a honeybee to the resonation of clamor of
hoards of devotees during this ritual.

Views of Chandragiri and Pond, Shravanabelagola.

Shanthinatha Basadi & Inscription, Shravanabelagola.

The last Mahamastakabhisheka took place during

December 1993 and the next one is scheduled to be held during
Feb 2006. The state Government and the Jain shrine at
Shravanabelagola make elaborate arrangement to provide all
facilities to the lakhs of devotees who happen to converge at
Sharavanabelagola during Mahamastakabhisheka.
Hale Belgola:

Yakshi Padmavathi (Gulle Kayi Ajji), Shravanabelagola.

There is a dilapidated temple at Hale Belgola in C.R Patna

Taluk, It was constructed about 1094 A.D. this is one of the
temples that marks the transition from the chalukya to the

Panels in Jinanathapura.

Hoysala style of architecture. The central ceiling of Navaranga

which is beautifully carved has figures if the asta-dikpalakas
seated on their vehicles with this consorts, the middle panel
being occupied by the Dharmendra with a five hooded canopy.
The Navaranga gooeway shows a fine workmanship.

Channarayapatna and Tiptur Road. It is an ancient place near

which the Chola kings have constructed the temple of
Jayagondeshwara. It is an agrahara built by Bommana

Jinanathapura:
A village in Channarayapatna taluk, Jinanathapura is about
2 kms from Shravanabelagola. This village was founded by
Gangaraja a General of the Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana.
Sadashiva Temple, Nuggehalli.

Jinanatapura is famous for the Shanthinatha Basti, it houses the

basti which is one of the most ornate of the Jain temple. The
outer walls have row of large images, surmounted by beautiful
turrets and scrolls. The images are of Jinas, Yakshas, Yakshis,
Brahma, Saraswathi, Manmatha, Mohini drummers, musicians
dancers etc., there is another basti built on a rock in the east of
the village, known as Aregal basti, which is older than the
Shanthinatha basti. It enshrines a fine seated marble figure of
Parshvanatha about5 feet high with prabhavali canopied by an
eleven hooded serpent.

Dandayanaka a chieftain of Hoysala King Someshwara. The

Lakshmi Narasimga temple was also built by him, which is a fine
specimen of Hoysala architecture. The Sadashiva temple here is
also fine specimen of Hoysala style. It also amalgamates certain
structures which represents Dravidian style.

There is also an inscribed Jaina tomb to the south-west of

the village known as Samadhi Mantapa of Shilakuta, which is
worth paying a visit.
Sri Lakshminarasimha Temple, Nuggehalli.

Nuggehalli:

Hullekere:

After a sojourn to Sharavanabelagola the next stop is

Nuggehalli. It is about 20 kms away from Channarayapatna. On

After Gandasi one will precede to Hullekere, a village in

Arasikere Taluk about 22 kms from Arasikere town. It has a
dilapidated Channakeshawa temple, a neat structure in the Hoysla

style, built in 1163 AD. The ceiling panels inside the temple are a
treat to watch, especially the central one. There are also fine figures
of Vishnu alternating with well executed turrets and pilasters.

different parts of the taluk. After the advent of railways in 1899

this place has thrived as the hub of trade and commerce.

Shivalaya, Arasikere.

Channakeshava Temple, Hullekere.

The village also has a temple of Saptamatrikas, Ishwara

and Anjaneya. In the Anjaneya temple there is a sculptured slab
with the figure of a man riding a horse and a servant holding an
umbrella behind. It apparently represents some chief. The
Isjwara Temple which is mostly buried in the bed of the large
tank near the village contains idol of Linga, pretty figures of
anapathy, Bhairava & Veerabhadra.
Arasikere:
From Hullekere the next stop is Arasikere. The
headquarters town of the taluk of same name, it is situated about
41 kms south-west of Hassan. Arasi in Kannada means princes
or queen and kere is tank, which amply implies the name of this
town, which was constructed by the Hoysala in the eleventh
century. Arasikere witnessed many a historical turmoils. It was
a mute spectator and a victim of the raids of Marathas who used
to attack the dominions of Mysore. The villagers raised earthen
towers for their defense and these towers can still be seen in

The Ishwara temple at Arasikere which faces east is a

remarkable structure in Hoysala style. It is built around 1220
AD. The garba griha doorway is beautifully carved. The
navaranga has eight carved niches with Dwarapalakas at the
sides.
The mantapa has a beautiful dome like ceiling with 5 rows
of carving. The outer walls of the temple have a row of large
images numbering, in all 120. The images are mostly on
pilasters between miniature turrets. All the images are a treat to
watch. Arasikere also has a spate of modern temples which with
their modern technical excellence appear as though they are
vying with their ancient counter parts to garner the attention of
the beholders. It is interesting to note that the municipality of the
town is the oldest in the state which came in to existence as far
back as 1882.
Garudanagiri:

Malekal Tirupathi, Arasikere.

Pass on to Garudanagiri via Arasikere, a conspicuous hill

fort, is about 27 kms from Arasikere. It was originally called
Nonabanakal, but later received the [resent name on being
fortified in 1660 by the wodeyars of Mysore, for the protection
of the forest infested frontier on the outer side. It was in the
hands of Wodeyars of Mysore except for a brief spell when the
Marathas occupied it during 1770. After the fall of Tippu Sultan
it was taken over by the British and was garrisoned for some
time by the Mysore troops.

also large temple of Govinarajaswamy at the foot of the hills.

Both the temples are frequently visited by large number of
devotees throughout the year. The car festival and annual feature
attracts hoards of people from all over the state.

There are Venkataramana, Baneshwara, Keshava and other

temple at this place. The ruins of an old fort can also seen.

inscriptions of the place and Baneshwara is the name of the deity

in one of the local temples. A legend derives the name of this
place from Bana (Arrow) and hour (carry), Rama having carried
the arrows here which Lakshamana had dripped owing to
fatigue.

Malekal Tirupathi:
Situated on the Hirekal hills close to Arasikere, Malekal
Tirupathi is about 3 kms from Arasikere. It is well known for the
Venkataramanaswamy temple, which is on the top of hill on the
northern side. A flight of 1700 steps leads to the temple. There is

Banavara:
From Gurudanagiri reach Banavara through Haranahalli.
Banavara is a town in Arasikere taluk and is 14 kms from
Arasikere. The name Banavara is found mentioned in some old

Jenukallu Siddara Betta:

Located in the taluk of Arasikere, which also houses
another fourteen Sidda Kshetras, Jenukallu Siddeshwara Betta is
in Yadapura that is about 5 kms from Arasikere. The Siddeshwara

are remains of an old fort here, which is side to have been

erected in 1070 AD by Someshwara Raya. The Nagarthi tank
here is a sight to be seen. Channakeshava and Someshwara
temples here are good specimens of Hoysala architecture. The
inscription here is clearly legible and belongs to the Hoysala
period.

Jenukal Siddhara Temple

Shrine here is an ancient one and attracts devotees from all over
Karnataka State and from neighboring states too.
Haranahalli:
Haranahalli is about 8 kms south of Arasikere on the
Hassan-Arasikere road and about 33 kms from Hassan. There

Someshwara Temple, Haranahalli.

Koravangala:
This is about 8 kms the east of Hassan. Out of the 3 major
temples of Nageshwara, Govindeshwara and Bucheshwara, the
last one i.e., the temple of Bucheshwara which is full of
ornamentation, practically represents the whole Hindu pantheon

Channakeshava Temple, Haranahalli.

are the finest examples of master craftsmanship. The surya

shrine opposite to the front hall is also remarkable for its
splendid sculpture. Its elaborate and fine carvings attract the
attention of the viewer.

BELUR

Bucheshwara Temple, Koravangala.

The Gem of Indian Architecture

Belur is headquarter of the taluk of the same name and is
situated on the bank of river Yagachi about 38 kms north-west if
Hassan.
Belur:

Belur, which has marvelous temples is a famous tourist

centre. The ancient city was also called Velapuri/ Velapur. The
main
temples
of
Channakeshava
and
Kappe Chennigaraya
were erected during the
reign of the great
Hoysala
king
Vishnuvardhana in the
12th feet in height. On
the jambs of the eastern door of the main temple are sculptured
images of Manmatha and Rathi which are rare figures in temples
of this type.
The architecture of this
temple is superb in every way,
the work inside being finer that
of outside. The fertility of the
design, the thorough finish, the
richness of ornamentation and
the elaboration of details are unparalleled. It appears as though
the hard stone had turned out to be pieces of vex in the hands of

these master craftsmen. The Keshava image is exceedingly

handsome and the sculptor has reached his pinnacle here. The
perfectly carved statue is awe-inspiring.
The Madanike figures supporting the caves of the outer
walls of the temple are the wonder works of art. One of the
glories of the temple is the raised parapet with successive
horizontal friezes of elephants,
cornice
with bead work
surmounted by Simha Lalatas
at intervals, scroll work with
figures in every convolution,
another cornice with bead work,
small figures mostly female in
projecting ornamental niches
with intervening figures of
Yakshas,
seated
inward
delicately carved
figures mostly female, between running along the edge of the
upper slope adorned with miniature turrets, lions and beautifully
carved tiny figures and a rail containing figures in panels
between double columns surmounted by an ornamental band.

Halebeed

. there would be few things more interesting or more

instructive than to institute a compatison between
Hoysaleshwara temple and the Parthenon at Athens.. They
are the best example of their class and between these two
extremes lies the whole range of art .. Every part in this
Hoysaleshwara temple, every convolution, is different and they
exhibit a joyous exuberance of fancy scoring every mechanical
restraint said Fergusson the well known art critic of this fame
temple.
Halebeedu:

Now a small town in Belur taluk, Halebeedu is about 27

kms from Hassan and about 17 kms from east of Belur.
Halebeedu marks the sie of Dorasamudra or
Dwarasamudra or Dwaravatipura, which was the wealthy capital
of the Hoysala kingdom. The splendor of the city is testified not
only by the accounts of its fabulous riches obtained from it
conquest as related by historians, but also by its architectural
monuments which still rank among the masterpieces of art of the
world.

there is probably nothing in India which would convey a better

idea of what its architects were capable of accomplishing.
Halebeedu is said to have originally
contained no less that 720 Jain Bastis.
But now there are only three of them
remains. They are of Adinatheshwara,
Shantishwara
and
Parshwanatheshwara.
Hoysaleshwara Temple, Halebeedu.

The temples of Hoyasaleshwara and Kedareshwara and the

Jain Bastis in the region rank among the finest in terms of
architectural tradition.
The Kedareshwara temple,
though smaller in size is gem of
art. The elaborateness of
ornamentation these temples can
be compared to embroider
jewelry.

The Parshwanatheshwara basti is the

largest of these bastis containing an image of
Parshwanatheshwara, which is a piece beautiful workmanship.
Helebeedu like Belur is a centre of attraction of artists and
archeologists, and for tourists in general. The visitor is readily
fascinated by the beauty of the sculptures which portray the

The Hoysaleshwara temple, which was built about the year

1141 AD is the largest existing structure of the Hoysala style.

The Kedareshwara temple is one of the most exquisite

specimens of Hoysala architecture. Fergusson says If it were
possible to illustrate this temple in anything like completeness

quintessence of great artistic achievements. If the Belur temple

is renowned for its artistic perfection in the interior the

Halebeedu temple are well known for their artistic brilliance on

the outer surface.

Jain Temple, Halebeedu.

Kondajji:

It is a village about 16 kms from Hassan on the way to

Belur. One can pay a visit to Doddagaddavalli and then proceed
to Belur or on their way back from Halebeedu pay a leisurely
visit to this place. The Lakshmidevi temple at Doddagaddavalli
is situated in a court yard enclosed by an old stone wall. It is an
architectural gem. It especially is the fine ensemble that makes
the temple very rewarding for a tourist visit.

Kondajji, which is about 17 kms

to the north of Hassan. The
Varadarajaswamy temple here is
famous and worth seeing. The gigantic
image of the deity who is also called
Aalanatha is about 18 feet high and
finely crafted.
Allalanatha

Doddagaddavalli:

Lakshmi Temple, Doddagaddavalli.

Arakere:
From Banavara move on to Arakere a small village in
Banavara Hobli. There are two temples namely Channakeshava

and Rameshwara, here which are worth seeing. The former is a

Trikutachala or three celled temple. The Rameshwara temple has
an excellently carved image of Vishnu, which is a fine piece of
artwork that cannot be missed. The image of sun, is also a piece
of master craftsmanship which is extensively carved and richly
ornamented. It is curious to note that the tower of this temple is
built of granite in receding sonares, ending in a Kalasha,
resembling in some respects towers of Pallava architecture.

images on the walls, of which 77 are female and the rest male.
The temple is believed to have been constructed during the
middle of the 13th century AD.

Javagal:
Javagal is a village in Arasikere taluk and is about 33 kms from
Arasikere town.

There are also other temples of Gangadhareshwara,

Veerabhadra, Banashankari and a Jain Basti for Chandranatha.
Alur:

Lakshminarasimha Temple, Javagal.

The Lakshminarasimha temple here is a good specimen of

Hoysala Architecture with a tower and with rows of animals etc.,
on the outer walls. Above the caves all round, there are at
intervals torrents with Kalashas. All together there are 137 large

Alur is the quarters of the taluk of the same name and is

situated about 12 kms west of Hassan, close to Hassan
Sakaleshpur Road. An important market for rice in the district.
The Lakshmijanardhanaswamy Jaatre held here is an annual
fare, which attracts large people. It will be held in the full moon
day of Phalgunamasa.
Palya:

After Alur move on to playa about 8 kms from Alur town.

It has Lakshmijanardhana, Rameshwara and Tripurantakeshwara
templs.
The main image of the Lakshmijanardhana temple is
peculiar in design and goes back to about 11th century AD. The
Tripurantakeshwara temple appears like a modern day country
house of tiles but enshrines 17th century sculptors. Two small
streams called Shankathirtha and
Chakrathirtha flow in front of the
village and join together to form a new
stream called Padmavathi providing a
scenic touch to the place. It is said that
the village was the hermitage of
Puranik Saint Jamadagni. The fort wall
and the moat outside the village is said
to be constructed by a Paleyagar, who ruled here called
Padmavathi providing a scenic touch to the place. It is said that
the village was the heritage of Puranik Saint Jamadagni. The fort
wall and the moat outside the village is said to be constructed by
a Paleyagar who ruled here.
Maharajana Durga:
It is a nice place about 14 km away Alur. Nestled between
steep rocky terrains, it is an octagonal fortress built on a hillock.
It is actually called Maganathinda Maharajana Durga in
Kannada meaning the King who ate the flesh of his own son.

The legend goes like this.. Veeraraju was a Chieftain who was
ruling in this area. Once, unknowingly ate the flesh of his own
son. May be this was a conniving conspiracy against him.
Anyhow after he came to know the tragedy the king committed
suicide through jumping out of the fort. There are two Persian
inscriptions here. It is a romantic and scenic spot.
Manjarabad Fort:
The Manjarabad fort is situated above 6.4 kms from
Sakaleshpur on the Bangalore - Mangalore Road and at a height
of about 3240 feet above the sea level. The fort has been
constructed of stones
and mud and it has
trenches all round. The
unique feature of the
fort is that it is in the
shape of an eight
pointed star. Its parapet
was well provided with
canon
mouths
and
musket holes.
Tippu Sultan during an inspection tour of the fort is said to
have observed the Maju (Fog) round this place and has
exclaimed the place as Manjarabad. There is another side of
this story too. Tippu Sultan who visited it, was mesmarisebdy
the beauty if this place and the landscape around it and called it
Manjarabad meaning Beautiful site. ..Even amongst the hills

themselves the contrasts are very striking and nature seems to

have furnished a single group every variety of mountains
conceivable.. From a piece of elevated land may be seen a
complete amphitheater of frontier mountains, presenting the
greatest variety of character.. this explanation very aptly
describes Manjarabad.

southern part of Hassan. This is a point where the North-Eastern

borders of Kodugu, South-Eastern border of Dakshina Kannada
District join together with that of Hassan. The scenery round
about the ghat is breathe taking and highly enchanting.

Bisleghat:

The 18th century Gudde Basavanna Devasthana (AD 1756) is

situated in the panoramic evergreen forest landscape of Western
Ghats region at Bykere, Sakaleshpur Taluk, and Hassan District
in Karnataka. It is 5 kms from Sakaleshpur on the Bangalore Mangalore national highway (NH-48). This Devasthana
renovated in 2002, has been attracting a large number of
devotees and tourists throughout the year.

From Manjarabad to Bisleghat. The beautiful and scenic

stretch of road takes you to the enchanting spot considered to be
one of the most beautiful landscapes in Hassan district. Perhaps
this set of landscape might have been the reason for Hassan to
earn the sobriquet Poormans Ooty.

Picturesque Gudde Basavanna Devasthana:

Mosale:
Mosale is a village in Hassan 12 kms from Hassan on the
Hassan - Holenarasiupur Road. Legend has it that Jamadagni,
the Puranik saint has his hermitage here.

Situated in Hethur hobble of Sakaleshpur taluk on the

Sakaleshpur Subrahmanya Road, Bisleghat is about 105 kms
soth-west of Hassan town and about 65 kms south-west of
Sakaleshpur. It is a stretch of forest which remains evergreen
throughout the year. This is the most beautiful spot in the

Two temples dedicated to Nageshwara and Channakeshava

stand side by side here. They are identical in design and
workmanship. They as many temples in Hassan District., are

Nageshwara and Channakeshava Temple, Mosale.

explicitly belong to the genre of Hoysala architecture and are

fine example of the style, at that. Each temple is surmounted by
an elegant tower. In front of each tower is the finely carved
image of Sala with the tiger. The ceiling panels are intricately
carved and do have intriguing and complex designs. The
etchings are elaborate and beautiful.

Lakshminarasimhaswamy Temple, Holenarasipura.

Holenarasipura:

The local chief Narasimha Nayaka has built a fort here

during 1168 A.D. The Lakshminarasimha temple draws a huge
number of devotees and this is a Trikutachala temple.

Holenarasipur is the headquarter of the taluk of same

name, is situated on the banks of Hemavathy about 32 kms
south-east of Hassan town.

Sri Ramadevara Anekattu:

This is an ancient Dam from which the longest channel in
the entire district is drawn. Running almost 51.5 miles or
approximately about 120 kms this channel irrigates almost onethird of the cannel irrigated area in the district.

Arakalagud:

Arakalagud is the headquarters of the taluk of the same

name and situated 30 kms south of Hassan. Goutama Rishi
performed penance to the Sun God here.
Ramanathapura:
Ramanathapura is a village in Arakalagud taluk 19 kms
away from Arakalagud. It is a picturesque village on the bank of
river Cauvery, and a pilgrim center in the district. Legend has it
that, Shukracharya the guru of Asuras, has meditated here to
realize Mritha Sanjivini Mantra. Another legend stated that
Vahni, the fire god cursed by Brugumuni became Sarva
Bhakshaka (destroyer of everything). In order to get rid of the
curse he performed penance to propitiate Swayambhu Shiva at
Ramanathapura.

There is also another story that relates to Tretayuga. Sri

Ramachandra, after he stayed Ravanasura and on his way back
to Ayodhya, worshipped the Shivalinga of this place to get rid of
Brahmahatya Dosha and there after this Shivalinga began to be
called Rameshwara. Thr Vahni Pushkarni here, which is
considered sacred and where fishing is forebidden, has fished
which have grown to abnormal sizes, some measuring even upto
6 feet long and weighing perhaps about 60 to 80 kgs. There are 7
temples at this place. They are Subrahmanyeshwara temple,
Paqttabh Rama temple, Agasthyeshwaraswamy temple,
Prasanna
Rameshwara
temple,
Anjaneya
temple,
Laksjminarasimha temple and Durga Rameshwari temple.
The Prasanna Rameshwaraswamy temple is the most
important structure at Ramanathapura, which is evidently an old
Hoysala temple. Ramanathapura is an important place of
worship.
Gorur:
Gorur is a village 9 kms north of Arakalagud but which is
in Hassan taluk. It is situated on the bank of Hemavathy. The
Yoganarasimha temple on the bank of Hemavathy, with a flight
of steps leading down to the bed of the river presents a
fascinating appearance.

Rameshwara Temple

Fish at Kaveri River, Ramanathapura

The Trikuteshwara temple here is of the Hoysala times.

The Vasudeva temple and Kailaseshwara temple are the other
temples at Gorur that attracts the attention of the traveler.

Hemavathy Dam

Adagur:
Adgur is a roadside village on the Hassan - Halebeedu
Road and is situated at a distance of about six miles from
Halebeedu in a picturesque valley skirted by ranges of hills on
all the sides.

Yoganarasimha, Gurur

Perhaps the description of Hassan district by Major

Montgomery, may give an idea where to look in this district. His
description goes this way. . The character of the country
is generally undulating till on approaching the ghats, when it
becomes precipitous. Perhaps there is no scenery in India more
beautiful than the southern part of this tract. It resembles for the
most part of the richest park scenery in England.
Only one has to have a penchant to follow the traditional
enquire and explore route.

The place seems to have been one of imporatance during

the 12th and 13th centuries and to have been occupied by
flourishing communities following Vaishnavism, Saivism and
Jainism. The temples that bear testimony to this fact are the
following: Lakshminarayana temple, Virabhadra temple and
Vighneshwara Shrine.

Shanthigrama:

Shanthigrama is a large village, situated 12 kms. East to

Hassan on the Bangalore road. It is now the headquarters of a
Hobli of the same name from inscriptions; it appears that it was
founded in the 12th century A.D. by Shantala Devi, the chief
queen of the Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana.

At this place, there are four

temples, of which the one dedicated
to Keshava is the large but a sample
building, mostly of the post-Hoysala

period. In the second temple, which is of the Hoysala times to

god Narasimha?

HASSAN DISTRICT HOTELS DETAILS

Sl. No

1.

2.
3.

4.

5.

6.

Hotel & Home Stays Name

Hoysala Village Resorts,

Belur Road,
Hassan 573 201.
Hotel Southern Star,
B.M. Road,
Hassan 573 201.
Hotel Suvarna Regency,
P.B. No. 97,
B.M. Road,
Hassan 573 201.
Hotel Sri Krishna,
B.M. Road,
Hassan 573 201.
Hotel Hassan Ashook,
B.M. Road,
Hassan 573 201.

Hotel Rock Line,

B.M. Road,
Hassan 573 201.

Ph. No.s

Fax No.

E Mail ID

08172-256793
256794
256795
256764

08172-256065

hvr@trailsindia.com

08172-251816
251817

08172-268916

sshassan@saneharnet.in

08172-266774
264279
264006

08172-263822

@hotelsuvarna.com

08172-263240
263241
263242
263243
08172-268731
268732
268733
268734
268735
268736
08172-269525
269526

08172-267154

hsnashok@yahoo.com

Sl. No

Hotel & Home Stays Name

7.

Hotel D.R. Karigowda

Residency,
B.M. Road,
Hassan 573 201.
Vaishnavi Lodging,
Harshamahal Road,
Hassan 573 201.
Hotel Harshamahal,
Harshamahal Road,
Hassan 573 201.
Hotel Mahaveer,
B.M. Road,
Hassan 573 201.
Hotel Sumukha Yathrinivas,
R.C. Road,
Hassan 573 201.
Hotel Kadamba Comforts,
B.M. Road,
Hassan 573 201.
Hotel Palika,
R.C. Road,
Hassan 573 201.
Hotel Mayura Velapuri,
KSTDC Unit,
Temple Road,
Belur 573 115.
Vishnu Regency,
K.G. Road,
Belur 573 115.

8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.

15.

Ph. No.s

Fax No.

E Mail ID

08172-264506
263222

08172-263885
263890
267413

08172-268533

08172-268885
263075

08172-262366
262377

08172-263117

08172-267145
267146

08177-222209

08177-222181
230053
230490

08177-230310

Sl. No

16.
17.
18.

19.

20.
21.
22.
23.
24.

Hotel & Home Stays Name

Sumukha Residency,
Temple Road,
Belur 573 115.
Hotel Mayura Shanthala,
Temple Road,
Belur 573 115.
Hotel Ashritha,
B.M. Road,
Sakaleshapura,
Hassan.
Hotel Raghu,
Near Kalyani,
Shravanabelagola,
Channarayapatna Taluk.
S.D.J.M.I Committee,
Guest Houses,
Shravanabelagola.
Hotel S.R.S,
B.M. Road,
Channarayapatna.
Hotel Akshatha Comforts,
B.M. Road,
Channarayapatna.
Sri. Thirumala Lodge,
B.M. Road,
Channarayapatna.
Hotel Kruthika,
B.M. Road,
Channarayapatna.

Ph. No.s

Fax No.

E Mail ID

08177-222181
230057
9448441423

08177-273224

08173-243050
243412

08176-257238

08176-257258
257226
257293

08176-252906

08176-256555

08176-252080

08176-252425

Sl. No

Hotel & Home Stays Name

25.

Hotel Chiranth,
Vallabhi Road,
Behind KSRTC Bus Stand,
Hassan 573 201.
Sri. Vishnu Residency,
Opp. Axis Bank,
B.M. Road, Hassan 573 201.
Palaka Resorts,
Sri Ramadevarakatte,
Holenarasipura Taluk,
Hassan Dist.
K.P.S Comforts,
Railway Station Road,
Opp. Bus Stand,
Arasikere.
B.S. Chirag Swarga,
Kumbarahalli Estate & Post,
Sakaleshapura.

26.
27.

28.

29.

30.

31.

B.P. Yagneshwar,
Coffee Planter,
Agani Grama,
Hanubalu Hobali,
Sakaleshapura.
H.M. Devraj,
Coffee Planter,
Lakshmipuram,
Sakaleshapura.

Ph. No.s

Fax No.

E Mail ID

08172-651622

Chiruds@yahoo.co.in

08172-234785

08175-265050
9980542644

www.palakaresosorts.com

08174-232100
9242312690

08173-292004
329215
9448054505
9632932020

swargaindia@hotmail.com
info@swarga.in

08173-290487

08173-244268

Sl. No

32.

33.

Hotel & Home Stays Name

Green Patchier Home Stay,

Karadagowu,
Bikkodu Hobli,
Belur Taluk,
Hassan 573 201.
Swastha Home Stay,
Byakaravalli Estate,
Byakaravalli,
Sakaleshapura Taluk,
Hassan.

Ph. No.s

Fax No.

E Mail ID

9341219344
9449667916

9448346656
9448957177