Sixteen kilometres from Belur, lies the ancient capital of the Hoysala Empire. Then known as Dwarasamudra, the capital was founded in the early 11th century AD and raided by the armies of the Delhi Sultanate in 1311 and 1327. Deserted afterwards, Dwarasamudra came to be called Halebid or the Old Capital.
Of the many buildings of this ancient city, only a few have survived Muslim invasions. Notable among them is the imposing Hoysaleswara Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Summer (Mar. To Jun.): Warm
Winter (Oct. To Feb.): Cool & pleasant
Summer- Light cottons
Winter - Light woolens
The nearest airport, Mangalore (148 km) is connected to Bangalore (216 km). Mysore (149 km) is connected to Bangalore, Hyderabad and Tirupati. Bangalore has direct air links to most parts of India.
The nearest railhead, Banavar (24 km) is connected to Arsikere, Bangalore and Hubli. Hassan (31 km) is connected to Arsikere, Bangalore, Mangalore and Mysore.
Halebid is connected by road to other centres of tourist importance around it.
Hotel Hassan Ashok (31 km)
KSTDC Tourist Cottages
The building of the temple was started in 1121 AD by Ketamalla, a general of King Vishnuvardhana of the Hoysala dynasty. There are to shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, Hoysaleswara and Shantleswara.
A small temple built by Ballala II and his consort Abhinava Ketala Devi in 1219 AD. The temple has three super-structures over the shrines and some fine sculptures.