UNESCO Heritage Site Of India- Hoysalas style temples at Somanathapura, Belur, Halebidu: Complete Tourist Information

The Hoysala-style temples at Somanathapura, Belur, and Halebidu were recently recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, showcasing the architectural brilliance of the Hoysala dynasty that ruled over parts of southern India between the 11th and 14th centuries. These temples are renowned for their intricate stone carvings, unique architectural style, and historical significance, making them a must-visit for anyone interested in India’s cultural heritage.

1. Somanathapura – Chennakesava Temple

  • Location: Somanathapura is located approximately 35 kilometers from Mysore in Karnataka.
  • Main Temple: Chennakesava Temple
  • History: Constructed in 1268 AD by Soma, a general under Hoysala King Narasimha III, the Chennakesava Temple in Somanathapura is a stellar example of the Hoysala architectural style.
  • Architecture:
    • Design: The temple is laid out in a star-shaped plan, a hallmark of Hoysala architecture, and stands on a raised platform known as a jagati.
    • Structure: The temple features a trikuta (three sanctums) plan, with shrines dedicated to Keshava, Janardhana, and Venugopala, all forms of Lord Vishnu.
    • Carvings: The temple’s walls are adorned with intricate carvings depicting scenes from Hindu epics like the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and various Puranas, along with elaborate floral patterns and images of deities.
    • Sculpture: The detailed carvings include friezes with elephants, horses, mythical creatures, and gods and goddesses, all executed with exceptional skill.
  • UNESCO Status: The Chennakesava Temple at Somanathapura is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site under the “Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas.”

2. Belur – Chennakesava Temple

  • Location: Belur is located about 220 kilometers from Bangalore and 40 kilometers from Hassan in Karnataka.
  • Main Temple: Chennakesava Temple
  • History: The Chennakesava Temple at Belur was commissioned by King Vishnuvardhana in 1117 AD to celebrate his victory over the Cholas. It is one of the most well-preserved examples of Hoysala architecture.
  • Architecture:
    • Design: The temple features a star-shaped platform and is a single-shrine (ekakuta) structure dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his form as Chennakesava (“Handsome Vishnu”).
    • Sculpture: The temple is renowned for its exquisite sculptures, including the famous Madanikas (celestial maidens), which are among the finest examples of Hoysala craftsmanship.
    • Carvings: The temple’s exterior and interior walls are richly adorned with sculptures depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, flora, fauna, and intricate geometrical patterns.
    • Other Shrines: The temple complex also includes additional shrines and smaller temples, adding to the spiritual and architectural significance of the site.
  • UNESCO Status: The Chennakesava Temple at Belur is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list as part of the “Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas.”

3. Halebidu – Hoysaleswara Temple

  • Location: Halebidu is situated about 16 kilometers from Belur and 31 kilometers from Hassan in Karnataka.
  • Main Temples: Hoysaleswara and Kedareswara Temples
  • History: The Hoysaleswara Temple at Halebidu was built in the 12th century during the reign of King Vishnuvardhana and was dedicated to Lord Shiva. Halebidu served as the capital of the Hoysala Empire.
  • Architecture:
    • Plan: The temple complex is a dvikuta (two shrines) design, with twin shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva as Hoysaleswara and Shantaleswara (named after King Vishnuvardhana’s queen, Shantala Devi).
    • Carvings: The temple’s exterior is covered with intricate carvings depicting scenes from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as a multitude of deities, animals, and mythical creatures.
    • Sculpture: The site is famed for its richly detailed sculptures, including over 240 images of various deities, all showcasing the extraordinary skill of Hoysala artisans.
    • Other Temples: The complex also houses the Kedareswara Temple, another remarkable example of Hoysala architecture, also dedicated to Lord Shiva.
  • UNESCO Status: The Hoysaleswara Temple at Halebidu is part of the “Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas,” recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

Tourist Information

  • Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit these temples is between October and March, when the weather is cooler and more pleasant.
  • How to Reach:
    • By Air: The nearest airport for Belur and Halebidu is Mangalore (about 168 km away), while Mysore (about 35 km away) is the closest airport for Somanathapura.
    • By Rail: The closest railway station to Belur and Halebidu is in Hassan, while Mysore is the nearest station for Somanathapura.
    • By Road: All three sites are well connected by road. Belur and Halebidu can be reached via Hassan, while Somanathapura is easily accessible from Mysore.
  • Accommodation: Visitors can stay in Hassan, which offers a range of accommodation options and serves as a base for exploring Belur and Halebidu. Mysore is ideal for those visiting Somanathapura.
  • Guided Tours: Hiring a knowledgeable guide is recommended to fully appreciate the historical, cultural, and architectural significance of these sites.

Significance

The Hoysala temples at Somanathapura, Belur, and Halebidu stand as testaments to the artistic and architectural achievements of the Hoysala dynasty. Recognized by UNESCO, these sites are not only important cultural landmarks but also symbols of the rich history and heritage of Karnataka, attracting visitors from all over the world.