Dwara Samudhra is an old lake in the town of Halebid. The Hoysaleshawara and Kedareshwara temples are the famous temples in the town that were built during Hoysala dynasty. The facades are filled with carvings of elephants, dancers and episodes from the epics. One must visit the archaeological museum in the Halebid temple complex.
HOW TO REACH
By Air:-
The nearest domestic Airport from Halebidu is Mysore Airport, roughly three hour drive from Halebidu town. The airport is well connected to many major cities of the country. The nearest International Airport is Bengaluru International Airport, Bangalore, roughly four hour drive from Halebidu. Frequent Flights to various national and international destinations take off from here.
By Road:-
Halebidu is 32 Kms from Hassan, 67 Kms from Channarayapattana, 140 Kms from Tumkur, 183 Kms from Mangalore, 211 Kms from Bangalore, 274 Kms from Ooty, 317 Kms from Hubli, 347 Kms from Coimbatore and is connected through Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and some private travel services.
By Train:-
The nearest railway stations from Halebidu are Mangalore, Mysore and Hassan in Karnataka and Thalassery and Kannur in neighboring state of Kerala. Smet Mysore Express, Mys Shimoga Express, Sharavati Express, Mysore Express, Sharavathi Express, Kannur Express and Dwr Mysore Express are the major trains for the all stations of Hassan district area.
WHAT TO SEE
Jain Temples:-
The Jain Temples or a group of Jain monasteries at Basadi Halli are among the popular sightseeing attractions of the region. These Jain Temples are renowned for their decorated pillars, which are highly polished almost resembling mirrors. Located close to the Hoysaleswara Temple, the group encompasses three shrines.
Hoysaleswara Temple:-
Hoysaleswara Temple, one of the major religious centres in the Hassan District of Karnataka, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The foundation stone of the temple was laid in the 12th century; however, construction of the shrine was abandoned on the advent of the Delhi Sultanate. The temple is famous for its intricately engraved sculptures and carvings.
Kedareshwara Temple:-
Kedareshwara Temple is one of the popular religious shrines of the region that depicts Chalukyan style of architecture. The shrine features two beautifully decorated Hoysala emblems.
Archaeological Museum:-
The Archaeological Museum is among the chief sightseeing attractions featuring several articles of historical importance. The repository maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India was established during the 1970s.
Shantaleswara Temple:-
Shantaleswara Temple is one of the major attractions of the destination, where several idols are placed next to each other. The shrine is constructed on an elevated platform facing east and is dedicated to Lord Shantaleswara. The idol of Lord Shantaleswara is made of soft soapstone also known as potstone.
SHOPPING:-
Karnataka has a rich tradition of handicrafts and silk sarees, sandalwood, ivory brassware and wooden toys that you can buy in Bangalore from the government-sponsored emporia or from the numerous shopping malls in Bangalore.
FOOD:-
You can get South Indian and North Indian food in Halebeedu. Most of the restaurants serve vegetarian food.