Belur

The best-preserved temples of the Hoysala dynasty can be found in the towns of Belur and Halebidu. The Hoysala dynasty was one of the most artistically exuberant periods of Hindu culture. The temples have beautiful sculptural decorations that can easily match those at the more famous temples of Khajuraho, as well as numerous of Europe's finest examples of Gothic art. The were included into the UNESCO world heritage list in 2023.

The Chennakeshava Temple is Belur's main attraction. It dates from the 12th century and its supporting pillars and lintels are beautifully decorated, but you should bring a flashlight to get a good view of the sculptural decorations that include gods, goddesses and guardian beasts. The Sankaresvara Temple is the oldest temple in Balur. It was dedicated to Shiva and it is sometimes referred to as the Shankaralingeshwara temple. Another Shiva temple is Pathaleshwara Temple. The Amrutheswara temple ruins has a large temple tank. its Vijayanagara-style contrasts with the nearby Hoysala temples.

In the area around Belur are numerous other interesting temples and monuments. Not far from Hassan City is the twin temple of Bucesvara-Koravangala. It exhibits pre-Hoysala artwork and traditions. Another major temple complex near Hassan City in Mosale is the Nageshvara-Chennakeshava Temple complex. Some 25 km (16 mi) from Belur in Belavadi is the Veera Narayana Temple. It has beautiful carvings and artwork. At Javagal, some 25 km (16 mi) northeast from Belur, you can see the 13th-century Lakshminarasimha Temple with artwork from Hindu traditions. Haranhalli is 45 km (28 mi) northeast from Belur. It is home to the Lakshminarasimha Temple, which was built in the 13th century. The Ishvara Temple at Arasikere is a Vesara and Hoysala architecture Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva. Arasikere is 60 km east of Belur. The Lakshmi Devi Temple is at Doddagaddavalli. It is one of the oldest Hoysala temples in India. A major group of many Jain and Hindu monuments called Shravanabelagola can be found at Channarayapatna, about 75 km (47 mi) southeast of Belur. 80 km to the east is the Nuggehalli group of temples. They were built in a vesara architecture in the 13th century. Furhter afield; some 180 km (110 mi) southeast from Belur is Somanathapura, which is home to the Kesava Temple. This Hoysala temple was also built in the 13th century. The Sadasiva Temple is also in Nuggehalli.

Accommodation and restaurants are available in Belur. Belur has been a Hindu pilgrimage center since at least the 12th century. The town is 1685 km south of Delhi.