Situated on the banks of river Yagachi, Belur was the capital of the Hoysala Empire 800 years ago, before it was shifted to Dwarasamudram (Halebid).
Today, Belur is a small town backing in the glory of one of the greatest monuments of medieval art in India - the 12th century Chennakesava Temple at Belur commemorates the victory of the Hoysalas over the Cholas in the great battle of Talakad. The exterior is covered with a variety of intricately-carved sculptures and friezes. The interior contains exquisite panels and richly-carved pillars. A tall stone pillar in the temple courtyard is balanced, amazingly, only by its centre of gravity.
Summer (Mar. To Jun.): Warm
Winter (Nov. To Feb.): Cool & pleasant
Summer- Light cottons
Winter - Light woolens
The nearest airport, Mangalore (154 km) is connected to Bangalore (222 km). Mysore (155 km) is connected to Bangalore, Hyderabad and Tirupati. Bangalore is connected to most parts of India by air.
The nearest railhead is Hassan (37 km), connected to Bangalore, Mangalore and Mysore.
Belur is connected by road to important cities in Karnataka.
Hotel Vishnu Prasad
New Gayatri Hotel
Chennakesava Temple
Started in 1116 AD, it took 103 years to complete. Built at the instance of the Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana, the main structure of the temple which is star-shaped, is a homogeneous architectural unit on a raised platform. Its three doorways facing east, north and south, and the bracket figures supporting the eaves of the walls, are masterpieces of craftsmanship.
Veeranarayana Temple
It has numerous finely sculpted figures of various Hindu gods. Small shrines of Kappe Chenningaraya, Soumyanayaki, Andal, etc. surround the temple.
Festivals
The annual Car Festival at the Chennakesava Temple takes place in March/April.