Understand

Embark on a journey to the historic town of Belur, nestled on the banks of the Yagachi river amidst lush surroundings. This town, located in the Hassan district of Karnataka, is truly a gem. Once known as Velapuri, it served as the alternate capital city for the Hoysalas after the destruction of their former capital, Dwarasumudra. The Hoysalas, a powerful dynasty that ruled the Deccan and parts of present-day Tamil Nadu between the 11th and 13th centuries, left an indelible mark on this region. As you enter the Chennakesava temple complex, you'll be greeted by an awe-inspiring sight. The majestic main entrance, topped with an intricate Vijayanagara-style tower, sets the stage for what lies within. At the heart of the complex, the Chennakesava temple stands proudly, facing east. It is accompanied by the Kappe Chennigaraya temple and a small Lakshmi shrine on its right, while an Andal or Ammanavara temple awaits on its left. Adorning the main courtyard are two graceful Garuda sthambhas, or pillars. One was erected during the Vijayanagara period, while the other is a testament to the Hoysalas' architectural prowess. Throughout their 300-year reign, the Hoysalas, known for their patronage of art and architecture, left behind numerous temples and monuments. Among their masterpieces, Belur shines the brightest. Its magnificent monument, breathtaking architecture, and splendid sculptures have earned it the nickname of the modern "heaven on earth" or Vaikuntha. Belur and Halebeedu, its neighboring town, are both jewels in India's rich cultural heritage. But beyond the architectural marvels lies a tale of mythology and legend. It is said that King Vishnuvardhana dreamt of Lord Chennakesava while staying overnight in Baba Budan Forest. Inspired by the dream, he decided to construct the temple in Belur. However, this unwittingly separated the Lord from his consort, who resided in the forest of Baba Budan. To this day, the local cobbler community presents a fresh pair of sandals daily, believing that the Lord visits his consort and accepts the offering before nightfall.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Dish: Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)Butter chicken is a rich and creamy curry made with marinated chicken pieces cooked in a tomato-based sauce. The dish originated in the Indian subcontinent and gained popularity in Canada due to the large population of Indian immigrants. It's typically served with basmati rice and naan bread. Butter chicken contains meat – chicken.

Dish: BiryaniBiryani is a popular rice dish made by cooking Basmati rice with meat (usually chicken, goat, or fish), vegetables, yogurt, and a blend of spices. It originates from the Indian subcontinent and is often considered the national dish of Pakistan. It's known for its flavorful layers and distinct aroma. Biryani contains meat – primarily chicken, goat, or fish.

Dish: SamosasSamosas are deep-fried or baked pastry snacks filled with a savory mixture of spiced potatoes, onions, peas, and sometimes meat. They originate from South Asia and have become a popular street food across India. Often served as an appetizer or a quick snack, samosas can be found at roadside stalls, train stations, and even weddings. Samosas can contain meat – typically potatoes, onions, and peas, but some varieties may include meat such as chicken or lamb.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing