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Halebid - The Land Of Royalty, Glory And Ruins

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Halebidu, literally meaning "the old city", was once the glorified royal capital of the Hoysala kingdom. During the olden days, it was known as Dwarasamudra which meant "entrance to the ocean".

Located in Hassan district, about 184 km from the capital city of Bangalore and about 118 km from the cultural capital of Mysore, this city enjoyed its royal glory during the 12th century. The city was later termed as Halebidu after it was ransacked twice by the Bahmani sultan.

The Sights And Sounds In The Lost City - Tourist Places In Halebid

The Hoysaleswara and Shantaleshwara temples built by Ketumalla were attributed to the then ruler and his queen, Vishnuvardhana and Shantala. The soapstone temple of Hoysaleswara is guarded by a monolithic Nandi. Though the rulers of the 12th century followed Jainism, many Shiva temples can be found in this area and the rich culture and traditions of the old days are beautifully captured in the carvings and sculptures in and around the temple.

Best Time To Visit Halebid

Though it is now a ruined city, it attracts tourists in droves. The best time of the year to visit Halebidu would be between October and January. The city, with a population of 8962 as per the 2001 census, is very well connected to other parts of the state by buses.

How To Reach Halebid

Rich in its art and architecture, this city is about 16 km from Belur, which is very famous for the Chennakeshava Temple. Halebidu is one of the heritage sites in the country, one that is a must-visit spot.

Halebid is Famous for

Halebid Weather

Best Season / Best Time to Visit Halebid

  • Jan
  • Feb
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  • May
  • Jun
  • July
  • Aug
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  • Oct
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How to Reach Halebid

  • By Road
    Halebid is well connected with major cities, including Bangalore (222 km) with the help of KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation) buses. Private and luxury deluxe buses are also available from Bangalore Majestic Bus Station for Halebid. On reaching the destination, tourists can opt for taxis and cabs to visit the nearby places
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  • By Train
    Hassan Railway Station is the nearest railway junction to Halebid, situated at a distance of about 27 km. Hassan Railway Station is well connected to major cities and nearby towns, such as Bangalore, Mysore and Mangalore, to name a few. Tourists can hire taxis to reach Hassan from the railway station.
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  • By Air
    Mangalore International Airport serves as the nearest domestic and international airport for tourists visiting Halebid. Also known as the Bajpe Airport, it is situated at a distance of about 168 km from Halebid. Tourists from across the country as well as from Middle East countries visit Halebid via Mangalore International Airport
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