India is a country that is filled with endless wonder in every single part of it. One of the best ways to experience this is by visiting the magnificent state of Karnataka, which is famous for sights such as Bangalore, Hampi, Mysuru, Wayanad, Madikeri, Nagarhole National Park, Gokarna, Kodagu, Srirangapatna, and Belur.
Belur is one of the most beautiful places you can visit in the state of Karnataka, which is famous all over the world for the unique and mesmerizing architectural wonders. Going on a 220 kilometers road trip to Belur from the state capital Bangalore is one of the popular recreational trips for Bangalore residents. The small town that has been affectionately called “Dakshina Banaras” is located on the bank of the Yagachi River. It is also a prominent pilgrim site that is visited by many Hindus every year, who come not only come for religious reasons but also to see the beautiful places to visit in Belur and Halebid. The best time to visit Belur is during the winter months of October to March.
Yagachi Dam is one of the best places to visit in Belur. You can see the lush green landscape all around the Dam and feel the cool breeze in the evening. The place is visited both by tourists as well as locals. In the backwaters of this Dam, Yagachi Water Adventure Sports Center was established so that more people visit this place. Water sports such as kayaking, banana boat ride, jet skiing, cruise boat, and speed boat are available here.
Timings: 7 am to 6:30 pm
The distance between Belur and Halebidu is just 17 km; thus, these two are called twin cities. Halebidu is known for housing intricate Hoysala architecture and carvings. There are several temples and sculptures that you can see in this town. The Hoysaleswara Temple, built in 1121 AD, is one of the major attractions here. The temple complex is inclusive of two Jain basadis, two Hindu temples that are dedicated to Lord Shiva, and one archaeological museum.
Timings: 7: 30 am to 6: 30 pm
It is one of the famous tourist attractions located very close to Belur. People from across the state of Karnataka visit this place to witness the beautiful Lakshmi Temple. Built during the 12th century under the rule of King Vishnuvardhana, this temple has earned fame for its architecture. Apart from this temple, the surrounding area is also looks one of a kind because of the lush greenery and the gorgeous water body.
Timings: 6 am to 8 pm
Belavadi is another place that you can visit near Belur. The destination is mostly known for the Sri Veera Narayana Temple. This temple is visited by devotees and tourists from across the state and even the country. Believing the legends, Bakasura was killed by Bheema here so that the villagers can be saved from the demon.
Timings: 8 am to 7.30 pm
One of the interesting facts about this temple is the number of years it took for this temple to get completed. Completed in 1117 AD, it took 100 years to complete this temple. This is an extremely beautiful temple with intricate carvings and artistic stone sculptures. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. As you enter the temple, you can find a 100 feet high gateway right at the entrance; and inside the temple, there is a 6-feet tall idol of Lord Vishnu. The other things to witness here include 645 elephant carvings, carvings in Navarang, sculptures of Madanakai damsels, episodes from the Puranas, the Upanishads; last but not the least, the epics of the Ramayana as well as the Mahabharata.
Timings: 7.30 am to 6.30 pm
One of the interesting things to do in Belur, especially for the history buffs is visiting the Kedareswara Temple. The temple was built in 1319 AD. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and the idol is made in Black stone. The architecture of the temple is in Chalukyan style. In the basement of the temple, you can find sculptural friezes which depict the story of the Mahabharata, the Ramayana, and the Bhagavad Gita.
Timings: 8 am to 5.30 pm
This is an amazing open-air museum, located in Halebid. You can find several sculptures, inscriptions, exhibits, etc. here. You can also witness the statue of Dancing Shiva, Nataraja, Veena Saraswati, and the bronze statue of Tirthankara.
Timings: 9 am to 5 pm (Friday remains closed)
Ermai waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls near Belur. Apart from watching the water cascading from the height, Ermai Waterfall is also a great destination for trekkers. While trekking around here, you can witness the beautiful places that surround this waterfall.
Timings: NA
To visit all these attractions, you can choose a self-drive car in Belur. You can visit the website or app of Revv to book a car rental in Belur. The app can easily be found in Google Play Store or iOS App Store, and super user-friendly. Choosing this option will not only make your trip easier but you will also be able to save a lot of money. Moreover, you can choose the car of your choice. Now, all that you need to do is to install the app and book which you can use for the trip and even after that, for as many days as you want.
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