Hassan was named after the Goddess Hassanamba, the most worshiped goddess of that time. Hoysala Empire dominated over Hassan for a quite long period of time. One can easily witness this fact just by visiting this place as the city is covered with different monuments and temples which are dated back during the Hoysala Empire.
Hassan portrays refine art and culture and the inscriptions on various historical attractions informs us more about the administration, taxation, economic status and braveness of Hoysala rulers.
There is evidence that during late 10th century, Jainism was at its peak in this city. There are many Jain temples developed here. These temples depict the skills of the talented labor that engraved and carved almost every wall, every pillar of the temple.
Read: The Shettihalli Church, Hassan – Indian’s Only Floating Church
The magnet that draws attention
Hassan is an old city but rich in varied forms of sculpture. The place is all crowded with the variety of temples. Each temple has its own story to tell. For people who are chasing peace and comfort, this is the right place for you.
Historians too have a great deal of interest in this place as mostly all the attractions here are like eight to nine centuries back. Apart from the splendorous tourist spots inside Hassan, there are much more around it too. There are many dams across the city. The weather conditions are mostly calming and relaxing.
Sightseeing in and around Hassan
The city is renowned for its glorious past and the now present rich heritage and culture.
This temple was built during the reign of the King Vishnuvardhana of the Hoysala Empire in 1113 C.E. It is one of the earliest temples constructed by Hoysala rulers. It is built using soapstone. The temple follows the typical chatushkuta architecture which makes it even more unique.
Sadashiva Temple
Sadashiva temple was constructed in 1249 by the commander Bommanna Dandanayaka of the Hoysala kingdom. The architecture of the temple is of Nagara style. The images of Shiv and Parvati and also nine planets facing each other are present here.
Bucheshwara Temple
It was developed in 11th century by an officer named Buchiraja to celebrate the supremacy of the king Veer Ballala, another Hoysala ruler. This temple is a centre for religious beliefs of the people residing here. The architecture of the temple is even older than that followed during the period of Hoysala dominion.
Someshvara Temple
The tower of the temple was built using the famous stone of Hassan, the soapstone. There are many images of Ganesha, shiva, Parvati, Lakshmi etc. engraved on the wall. The original year of construction of this temple is not known but it is believed that it was built in 12th century with many other temples that show similar architectural skills.
Coorg
Coorg is a perfect place for nature-lovers. This place is also called as the Scotland of India. The famous king’s spot is the sunset point of the Coorg where the king used to enjoy the sunset. Tourists assemble here every year in large numbers to enjoy the serene beauty of this place.
Halebid
Halebid enjoyed the status of being the capital of the Hoysala kingdom in the 12th century. The name Halebid means the old city. Bahmani sultan plundered the city twice in a row and thereafter, it was named Halebid. The majestic touch of the place during its glorious years can still be felt here. The best time to visit here is from October to January.
It is a popular hill station. The place is surrounded by lush green vegetation and high mountains. Apart from the natural beauty, there are many other spectacular gardens that add to its popularity.
How to reach Hassan
Tourists sweep in here to witness the irresistible beauty of this place and here are the links that help them do so in an easy manner.
By air
Hassan does not own an airport of its own. The nearest airport is in Bangalore which provides great connectivity pattern all over India. After flying to Bangalore, you can easily take a bus or rely on rail to get to your target.
By rail
This place is connected to different cities of Karnataka namely Hubli, Shimoga, Mangalore, Mysore and Bangalore. One can travel to these cities and then further travel via rail to Hassan to enjoy the piousness of this place. Cabs or taxies are available at Hassan that can help you visit the major tourist attractions here.
By road
Hassan is 115 km away from Mysore and 187 km away from Bangalore. It is well linked with different cities like these two and buses are available from these cities that drop you to Hassan. For those who wish to drive to Hassan can come via plane or train to the cities mentioned above and then rent a car.
Also See
Temples in Hassan
- Sri Lakshmi Venkataramanaswamy Temple
- Amaragiri Malekal Tirupati Temple
- Hasanamba Temple
- Ishvara Temple
- Lakshmi Devi Temple
- Lakshmi Narasimha Temple
Sightseeing in Hassan
Dams in Hassan