¤ About Hassan
Located
in the South Indian state of Karnataka at around 187 km from the state
capital Bangalore, Hassan extends from 13°01/' North to 76°10/'
East. Being the nearest railhead to Belur, Halebid, and Shravanbelagola,
Hassan is an ideal base to explore these historical sites. The region of
Hassan had been under the control the Hoysalas from 11th to 13th century. It
was during this period that the great temples of Belur and Halebid were
constructed. Hassan was also greatly influenced by Jainism. It became a
well-known centre of Jain literature. This busy little town has a pleasant
climate throughout the year.
Belur and Halebid had been the
capital of the Hoysalas, who ruled over a large kingdom between Krishna and
the Kaveri rivers. Besides being great warriors, the Hoysalas were also
great patrons of art and culture. As such, one sees the great works of art
out here, the works which have survived over the centuries and even today
mesmerize all those who come here year after year. The Channekeshava Temple
at Belur and Hoysaleswara temple at Halebid. Besides these, there are
various other smaller temples and Jain temples that are worth a visit.
Hassan
is called "Poor Man's Ooty". Ooty is a popular Holiday hill
station in India. It hosts the Master Control Facility of India's space
programme.
¤ Major Tourist Attractions
of Hassan» Channakeshava Temple Belur - The
Channakeshava temple at Belur, which was (the earlier Capital of Hoysala
Kingdom) built by the emperor Vishnuvardhana, during 1117 AD to commemorate
his conversion from Jainism to Vaishnavism, has attracted connoisseurs of
art the World over, through its intricate sculpting wonders
»
Belur- Halebid - 38 kms from Hassan in Belur. 17 km east of Belur
is Halebid. The best example of Hoysala architecture built in the 12th
century, it is sheer profusion of stone sculptures. Awe inspiring
craftsmanship has left no stone blank. Inside are hand lathe turned pillars.
» Koramangala -Also called Koravangala in
Dudda Hubli of Hassan taluk is about 8 kms to the East of Hassan town. The
village contains three temples in the Hoysala style of architecture built in
the 12th century A.D.
»
Shravanabelagola - Said to be the world's tallest monolithic
statue, it is in dedication to Prince Bahubali, a Jain Saint. The anointment
ceremony is performed once in 12 years.
» Kondajji -
A village in Hassan taluk noted for the Chennakeshava temple.
¤
ShoppingSandalwood items, fabrics (including silks), papier-mache,
brassware, wood carvings, clothing, religious paraphernalia, paintings and
prints, dhurri rugs, shawls, Oriental carpets, marble inlay boxes, dolls,
copperware, bronzes, musical instruments, silver, jute products, tea,
saffron, batiks, bamboo products, fossils and crystals are among the good
buys. Well made souvenirs are available from most good hotels, but for the
real Indian buying experiences head for any local market.
¤
AccomodationHassan is well equipped with the various types of
accommodation facilities. Starting from luxurious hotels to reasonably cheap
dormitories, all are available in this place.
Hassan
