Hoysaleswara Temple is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located in Halebidu (Halebeedu or Halebid), Hassan. The Hoysaleswara temple is located at a distance of 150 kms from Mysore. The construction of the temple began in the 12th century by the King of Hoysala. This temple was then looted in the 14th century and it fell into ruins after that. Halebidu is easy to reach and is located at a distance of 16 kms from Belur and 31 kms from Hassan.
Quick Facts about Hoysaleswara Temple
- Timing : 6:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Entry Fee: NA
- Important Festival: Shivratri
- Location: Halebeedu (MAP)
Hoysaleshwara Temple. Image courtesy Bikashrd
History of Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebid
It is known that the famous temple derived its name from the King Vishnuvardhana Hoysaleswara, who built the temple. A large amount of contribution was received from the Shaivas for the construction of the temple. It was built to compete with the Chennakesava temple which was under construction as a Vaishnava temple. The Hoysaleswara Temple is surrounded by ponds, mantapas and lakes. It is well known for the sculptures and architecture of Hoysala period.
The best time to visit this temple is in February for the festival of Shivratri.
Hoysaleshwara Temple. Image courtesy Anks.manuja
Architecture of Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu
The temple has exclusive carvings and has a plan with two shrines, one for the King and one for the queen. It has about thousand figures on the walls which depict scenes of Mahabharata and Ramayana. It reflects the Hoysala architecture and was built in soapstone. The outer walls of this temple have intricate carvings and the temple has been described as an outstanding example of Hindu architecture.
The temple has four porches for entry and the main shrine faces on the east. There are exquisite sculptures and paintings inside the temple. There is an image of a dancing Ganesha at the entrance of the temple. There are more than 240 images in the temple and no other temple has these many intricate sculptures.
Hoysaleshwara Temple. Image courtesy Dineshkannambadia
The most interesting part of the temple is the Garuda Sthamba, which is a rare pillar that depicts the history of the bodyguards that lived with the Kings in olden days. These bodyguards committed suicide on the death of their master and this pillar pays homage to a bodyguard named Kuruva Lakshma who killed himself after the death of his master. The event is narrated in detail on the pillar. This temple has been listed as a heritage site by the UNESCO.
Hoysaleshwara Temple. Image courtesy Anks.manuja
How to Reach Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebeedu
By Air
The nearest airport is Bangalore and Mysore, from there one will have to reach the temple by road.
By Rail
The nearest railway station is located at Bangalore and Mysore and there are various trains running from Hassan to Mysore and Bangalore.
By Road
The temple is very close to Halebid and there are regular buses plying from Halebid to Hassan. One can easily take a bus or train to Hassan from Bangalore.
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