About Belur Tourism
Belur is an underrated historical gem nestled in the heart of Karnataka. This town is often referred to as the “Banaras of South” or “Dakshina Banaras”. Belur tourism in Karnataka is particularly popular due to its multiple temples and holy shrines. On your trip to Belur, you shall get the opportunity to witness the intricate carvings and stunning architecture of the Chennakesava Temple, experience the warmth of the locals, as well as indulge in the flavours of the region’s traditional cuisine.
A large number of people book Belur tourism packages to view some of the finest examples of Hoysala architecture in India. This region was among the most important centres during the Hoysala Empire. Based on inscriptions dating back to the 11th century, the area now known as Belur was once referred to as "Velur" or "Velapuri." During the period from the 11th to the 14th century, it served as the second capital of the region, which highlights its significant historical and political importance.
Booking the Belur tourism package would give you the chance to visit Lord Chennakesava, which is widely regarded as the finest among the three prominent Hoysala temples that have been proposed for UNESCO World Heritage status. The Hoysala architectural style is particularly admired for its incredibly detailed carvings and sculptures, distinguished by their smooth, metal-like finish. No matter whether you are passionate about history, fascinated by ancient architecture, or seeking spiritual experiences, the Belur tourism experience shall be perfect for you.
Experience The Best Of Belur
As you plan to experience Belur tourism in Karnataka, you must make sure that the itinerary of your trip includes the following: -
Chennakesava Temple: Located just 500 meters from Belur Bus Station, this ancient temple is the key attraction of the town. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Chennakesava Temple features a grand 100-foot-high gateway at the entrance. There is a six-foot-tall idol of Lord Vishnu placed inside the temple. People often book a Belur tourism package and visit this town to check out the extensive carvings, stone sculptures, artwork as well as the unique architecture of the Chennakesava Temple. Built with soapstone, this temple complex comprises of Hindu temples and minor shrines inside a walled compound. You can enter the compound from the east through a Gopuram. The main temple sits in the center, facing the east, which is a classic example of South Indian temple architecture. There are more than forty pillars across the temple, each of them uniquely carved and decorated. The four central pillars were hand chiselled by artisans and feature madanikas or celestial damsels in varied poses, making it an important aspect of Belur sightseeing.
Doddagadavalli Temple: Built in 1113 AD under the patronage of King Vishnuvardana, this temple showcases a fine example of the early architectural styles of the Hoysalas. Doddagadavalli Temple is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi. Within the temple complex, you can also find smaller shrines for Kali, Boothanatha Linga, Vishnu and Bairava.
Yagachi Dam: Belur tourism packages shall seem incomplete without a visit to the Yagachi Dam. Surrounded by a lush green landscape, this earthen gravity dam is built across the River Yagachi, which is a tributary of the River Kaveri. Here you can try out a variety of fun-filled activities like banana boat rides, kayaking, jet skiing and speed boat rides.
Sankaresvara temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this is known to be the oldest Hoysala temple in Belur. It is also referred to as the Shankaralingeshwara temple, and features a phamsana-style shikara, and a notable sukhanasi.
Paathaaleshwara Temple: Known for its rustic appearance, the Paathaaleshwara Temple attracts many visitors. It is marked by ancient jet-black Hoysala pillars and is set amidst dense bushes. Constructed by carving on stones, this temple has an intriguing and charming architecture.
How To Reach Belur
By Flight: The airport nearest to Belur is the Bajpe International Airport at Mangalore. Mangalore airport serves domestic flights to most major Indian cities, as well as Abu Dhabi-Muscat, Kuwait, Bahrain and Doha routes. From the Mangalore airport, you can take a cab to Belur.
By Train: Belur does not have a railway station of its own. The nearest ones are at Hassan, Sakleshpur and Chikmagalur. These cities are well-connected to Bengaluru, Mysore and Mangalore via railways, and you can easily take a bus or cab to Belur from Hassan, Sakleshpur and Chikmagalur.
By Road: You can find regular buses to Belur from Bengaluru, Hassan, Chikmagalur and Mysore.
Belur reviews
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Rameswaram Kanyakumari Kovalam
"विना टूर खरच अस्मरणीय अशी टूर आहे खूप छान मॅनेजमेंट जेवण एक नंबर आम्ही आत्ता मदुराई कन्याकुमारी रामेश्वरम ला गेलो होतो आम्ही तिघी मैत्र... Read more
Hyderabad Ramoji City
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Hyderabad Ramoji City
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Hyderabad Ramoji City
"STHY070123 Ramoji tour : Hi, It was a great experience to travel with Veena World for the first time. We enjoyed every bit of the tou... Read more
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Some good reads to help you travel better!
Belur sightseeing experiences are extremely memorable. On your trip to this town, you would get to admire the breathtaking artistry of the yesteryears, appreciate extraordinary craftsmanship, and explore the rich cultural narratives etched into every stone of Belur’s temples. Located near the foothills of the Western Ghats, Belur was the erstwhile capital of the Hoysala Empire and a Vaishnava Hindu pilgrimage centre. People from near and far book Belur tourism packages to visit the Chennakeshava Temple. The Sankaresvara temple here is also quite popular, and is considered to be among the oldest temples in the region. Belur is a well-known tourist hotspot that attracts visitors from across India and beyond.
Best Time to Visit Belur
The perfect time to book Belur tourism packages and visit this old town is from October to February. The town has a pleasant, cool winter which is perfect for outdoor activities like sightseeing. During the winters, the temperature in Belur hovers between 22ºC to 31ºC. This is the perfect time to plan your trip, and comfortably walk around its temples while admiring their carvings and architecture. It would be prudent to carry light woollen clothes if you decide to go on a Belur tour in the winter.
Book the Best Belur Tourism Packages at Veena World
Veena World is a dependable travel and tourism company that offers Belur tourism packages at a cost-effective price. Veena World tour managers would take of care all the aspects of your trip, right from making hotel and travel bookings to arranging meals. Our Guest Relations team would also be available for you 24x7 throughout the tour.
