The Belur, Halebidu and Shravanabelagola circuit is one of the most rewarding heritage trails in Karnataka, combining the giant Gomateshwara statue with the finest Hoysala temple architecture in India. Because all three lie within the Hassan district, the Belur, Halebidu and Shravanabelagola trio is easily covered in a well-planned day or two.
Why combine Belur, Halebidu and Shravanabelagola?
Belur, Halebidu and Shravanabelagola together showcase the artistic and spiritual peak of medieval Karnataka. Shravanabelagola represents Jain heritage and monumental sculpture, while Belur and Halebidu are masterpieces of Hoysala temple building, with the latter two on the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visiting all three in one trip gives a complete picture of the region’s history.
Shravanabelagola
Begin with Shravanabelagola and its 57-foot Gomateshwara statue (Bahubali) atop Vindhyagiri hill, along with the ancient basadis on Chandragiri. Allow at least half a day here to climb both hills. For full details, see our complete Shravanabelagola travel guide.
Belur – Chennakeshava Temple
Belur, on the banks of the Yagachi River, is famous for the Chennakeshava Temple, commissioned by the Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana in the 12th century. Its façade and pillars are covered with astonishingly detailed carvings of deities, dancers, musicians and mythological scenes — considered among the greatest achievements of Hoysala art.
Halebidu – Hoysaleswara Temple
Halebidu, the former Hoysala capital, is home to the Hoysaleswara Temple dedicated to Shiva. Its walls are adorned with continuous friezes of elephants, lions, horsemen and episodes from the epics, making it a treasure trove of intricate soapstone sculpture. Belur and Halebidu are about 16 km apart and are almost always visited together.
Distances and Route
- Shravanabelagola to Halebidu: about 80 km.
- Halebidu to Belur: about 16 km.
- Belur to Hassan: about 38 km.
- Bengaluru to Shravanabelagola: about 144 km (a common starting point).
A logical loop from Bengaluru is Shravanabelagola → Halebidu → Belur, staying overnight in Hassan or Belur. See our how to reach Shravanabelagola guide for transport details.
Suggested Itinerary
One long day: Start very early from Bengaluru, reach Shravanabelagola by mid-morning, then drive to Halebidu and Belur in the afternoon before returning. This is tight but doable.
Relaxed two days: Day 1 — Shravanabelagola, then overnight in Hassan. Day 2 — Halebidu and Belur at a leisurely pace before heading home. This is the recommended way to enjoy the Shravanabelagola, Belur and Halebidu circuit without rushing.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I cover Shravanabelagola, Belur and Halebidu in one day?
Yes, from Bengaluru it is possible in one long day, but a two-day trip with an overnight in Hassan is far more comfortable.
2. How far is Shravanabelagola from Belur and Halebidu?
Shravanabelagola is about 80 km from Halebidu, and Halebidu to Belur is about 16 km.
3. Where should I stay for this circuit?
Hassan makes the best base, with options also in Belur; see our where-to-stay guide.
Also read
- Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu
- Chennakesava Temple, Belur – A Hoysala Marvel
- Gomateshwara Statue At Shravanabelagola: History, Height & Symbolism
- Shravanabelagola Temples – The Ancient Jain Basadis
