A Road Trip to Hassan: Temples, Trails & Tranquility

We couldn't plan for any trip on the Dussara vacation as I was busy with my work. Finally the work finished and we have only 3-4 days left. So want to plan somewhere nearby for 2days so that we can spend some time relaxedly. The initial plan was to visit Mysore, but after looking at the traffic woes in Mysore don't want to take a chance. This time want to explore some places which are less explored rather than most famous cases. While exploring I could see that there are loads of less explored places around Hassan.

The plan is to visit all the places after crossing Hassan on day1 and comeback to Hassan and stay for the night and while coming backto bangalore on Day2 planned to visit the rest of the places on the way to bangalore.

Here are the places for Day1:

Ancient Hoysala Shri Chandramouleswara Temple (Arsikere)

Shri Veeranarayana Swamy Devastana Belavadi

Ancient Hoysala Shri Lakshmi Narasimhaswamy Temple (Javagal)

Shri Kedareshwara Swamy Temple, Halebeedu

Ancient Sri 1008 Bhagawan Shantinatha Digambara Jaina Basadi, Halebeedu

Ancient Hoysala Shri Kalyani Pushkarini, Hulikere

Sree Kshethra Pushpagiri Mahasamsthana, Halebeedu

Ancient Hoysala Shri Doddagaddavalli Lakshmi Devi Temple, Hagare

Seege Gudda, Seege

Hassan.

Here is the complete google Maps link for the same: https://maps.app.goo.gl/2Uzc3FMsHyhKftUB6

Day2:

Haluvagilu Waterfalls

Shettihalli Church

Shri Ranganathaswami Gudi (Konapura), Holemaragodanahalli

Janni Bridge, Kittane

Mavanuru Shri Bettada Malleshwara Gudi, Bijemaranahalli

32 Feet Shri Shirdi Saibaba Gavi Temple (Sai Samsthana), Hirisave

Bidanagere Hanuman Temple, Nelathahally

Here is the link for the complete locations planned in Day2: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XjsnB7tJVeiAMBgP8

Here are the details of the places that we visited on Day1.

Ancient Hoysala Shri Chandramouleswara Temple (Arsikere)

As I stepped into the quiet town of Arsikere, the hum of the present seemed to fade, giving way to whispers from the 12th century. Standing gracefully amidst the stillness was the Ancient Hoysala Shri Chandramouleshwara Temple, a masterpiece carved in stone. Built during the reign of King Veera Ballala II, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, known here as Chandramouleshwara — the one who wears the crescent moon.

The moment I entered, the sheer elegance of Hoysala craftsmanship left me awestruck. The star-shaped sanctum, the finely polished lathe-turned pillars, and the symmetrical carvings told stories of devotion and artistry that words could barely capture. Each sculpture seemed alive, frozen mid-movement, as if time itself had paused to admire the artisans’ skill.

Unlike the crowded temple complexes of Belur and Halebidu, this shrine had a calm, almost meditative aura. The breeze carried the scent of age-old stone and devotion, and as sunlight filtered through the ornate doorways, the temple seemed to glow from within.

Visiting the Chandramouleshwara Temple felt like stepping into a forgotten page of Karnataka’s history — one where faith, geometry, and art merged seamlessly, leaving behind a silent yet powerful legacy of the Hoysalas.

Shri Veeranarayana Swamy Devastana, Belavadi

A short drive from Halebidu brought me to Belavadi, a charming village that guards one of the most exquisite yet lesser-known gems of Hoysala art — the Shri Veeranarayana Swamy Temple. Built around 1200 CE during the reign of King Veera Ballala II, this magnificent structure is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped here in three serene forms — Veeranarayana, Venugopala, and Yoganarayana.

As I walked through the temple’s entrance, the first thing that caught my eye was its graceful symmetry — a signature of Hoysala architecture. The beautifully carved pillars, intricate ceilings, and the peaceful mandapas seemed to narrate stories from a time when devotion and artistry went hand in hand. The temple’s layout, designed like a trikuta (three-shrined) structure, felt like a perfect harmony of geometry and spirituality.

Unlike the bustling tourist spots, Belavadi’s temple offered a rare sense of tranquil divinity. The faint ringing of bells, the soft glow of oil lamps, and the whispers of wind through ancient corridors made it feel as though the Hoysalas still watched over their creation. Standing there, surrounded by centuries of devotion carved into stone, I couldn’t help but feel a deep reverence for this living monument of Karnataka’s glorious past.

Tucked away in the peaceful lanes of Belavadi, not far from the grand Veeranarayana Temple, lies a small yet deeply revered shrine — the Udbhava Ganapathy Temple. Unlike most temples where idols are sculpted and installed, this temple is unique because Lord Ganesha is said to have manifested here naturally from the earth, earning the name Udbhava (meaning “self-emerged” or “swayambhu”).

Ancient Hoysala Shri Lakshmi Narasimhaswamy Temple, Javagal

Leaving Belavadi behind, my journey led me through the quiet countryside to Javagal, a village that treasures another jewel from the glorious Hoysala era — the Ancient Shri Lakshmi Narasimhaswamy Temple. Built in the 13th century during the reign of King Vira Someshwara, this temple stands as a testament to the refined artistry and devotion of the Hoysala craftsmen.

Dedicated to Lord Narasimha, the fierce yet compassionate incarnation of Vishnu, the temple also enshrines Goddess Lakshmi, symbolizing divine grace alongside strength. The moment I stepped inside, the cool air and the rhythmic play of light over the soapstone carvings made me pause in admiration. Every inch of the walls seemed alive — celestial dancers, mythological scenes, floral motifs, and detailed depictions of deities, all etched with precision that only patient hands and devoted hearts could create.

The trikuta (three-shrined) design and the delicate lathe-turned pillars reflect the peak of Hoysala architecture, much like the temples at Belur and Halebidu, yet this one remains blissfully untouched by crowds. The serenity here felt deeper — as if the divine energy of Narasimha himself guarded the village in silence.

As I sat on the stone steps, watching the sun dip behind the temple towers, the air was filled with a quiet reverence — a reminder that Karnataka’s villages still hold echoes of an ancient civilization where faith was carved in stone and beauty was a form of worship.

Shri Kedareshwara Swamy Temple, Halebeedu

As I approached Halebeedu, the historic capital of the Hoysala dynasty, the air itself seemed steeped in legends and artistry. While the grand Hoysaleswara Temple often steals the limelight, just a short walk away lies a quieter yet equally enchanting shrine — the Shri Kedareshwara Swamy Temple. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this 13th-century marvel was built during the reign of King Veera Ballala II and Queen Umayaladevi, showcasing the Hoysalas’ unmatched devotion to both architecture and divinity.

The temple stands gracefully on a star-shaped platform, adorned with intricate carvings that wrap around its walls like an eternal storybook in stone. As I circled the sanctum, the outer walls revealed scenes from the Mahabharata, Ramayana, and Bhagavata Purana — each sculpture so detailed that even after centuries, the expressions of the figures seemed to speak.

Inside, the three shrines (trikuta) house beautiful representations of Lord Kedareshwara (Shiva) and other deities. The polished, lathe-turned pillars gleamed under soft sunlight, and the quietness of the temple amplified its spiritual aura. Unlike its more visited neighbour, this temple offered something rare — silence. It felt as if time had slowed down, allowing me to truly absorb the craftsmanship and sanctity around me.

Sitting on the ancient steps, I couldn’t help but marvel at how faith and artistry intertwined so seamlessly here — each carving a prayer, each stone a memory of a civilization that found the divine in geometry and grace.

Ancient Sri 1008 Bhagawan Shantinatha Digambara Jaina Basadi,Halebeedu

Just a little distance from the grand Hoysala temples of Halebeedu, I found myself standing before a serene yet powerful monument — the Ancient Sri 1008 Bhagawan Shantinatha Digambara Jaina Basadi. This quiet shrine, dedicated to Bhagawan Shantinatha, the 16th Tirthankara in Jainism, offers a rare glimpse into the Hoysala patronage of Jain art and philosophy. Built around the 12th century, the temple reflects the same architectural elegance and stone craftsmanship seen in the nearby Shaivite temples, yet carries a distinct air of spiritual calm and introspection that is uniquely Jain.

As I stepped into the Basadi, the polished soapstone walls, finely sculpted pillars, and the majestic idol of Shantinatha radiated an aura of stillness — the kind that draws you inward. The carvings here are minimalist compared to the ornate Hindu temples, yet their symmetry and precision speak of profound balance and discipline, mirroring the essence of Jain philosophy itself.

Outside, the quiet surroundings, the soft rustle of trees, and the occasional call of a bird completed the temple’s meditative charm. Standing there, I could sense how Halebeedu was once a vibrant spiritual center — where Jain monks, artists, and devotees shared the same sacred space as the followers of Shiva and Vishnu. The Shantinatha Basadi remains a gentle reminder of the religious harmony and artistic brilliance that flourished under the Hoysala reign.

Ancient Hoysala Shri Kalyani Pushkarini, Hulikere

A short drive from Halebeedu brought me to Hulikere, a quiet hamlet that hides one of the most exquisite examples of Hoysala engineering — the Ancient Shri Kalyani Pushkarini. At first glance, it looks like a simple stepped tank, but as I descended the stone steps, the structure revealed its breathtaking geometry and symmetry — a sacred water reservoir that once served the nearby temples and monasteries.

Believed to have been built during the reign of King Veera Ballala II in the 12th century, this Kalyani is surrounded by twelve small shrines, each finely carved and once housing deities that sanctified the waters. The star-shaped plan, perfectly chiseled steps, and the reflection of the sky in the still water create a mesmerizing harmony between architecture, nature, and devotion.

Standing at the base of the tank, I could almost imagine the rituals and ceremonies that once filled this space — priests offering prayers, devotees drawing holy water, and the faint sound of temple bells echoing across the valley. Though time has softened its edges, the Hulikere Kalyani Pushkarini remains an awe-inspiring symbol of how the Hoysalas treated even water bodies as extensions of their temples — sacred, artistic, and deeply spiritual.

As the sunlight danced across the ancient stones, it felt as if the waters themselves whispered stories from a forgotten golden age of Karnataka.

Sree Kshethra Pushpagiri Mahasamsthana, Halebeedu

My journey through the Hoysala heartland finally led me to Sree Kshethra Pushpagiri Mahasamsthana, near Belur and Halebeedu — a sacred hill that seems to rise gently out of the landscape, carrying centuries of devotion upon its shoulders. Known as a spiritual and educational center, Pushpagiri is revered by followers of the Veerashaiva/Lingayat tradition, and its peaceful ambience instantly sets it apart from the bustling temple towns below.

As I climbed the gentle slopes, the air grew quieter, scented with incense and the faint hum of prayers drifting from the shrines above. The temple complex, perched amidst scenic greenery, is dedicated to Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy and other deities, and serves as the seat of a respected spiritual lineage (Mahasamsthana Peetha) that continues to guide devotees and scholars even today.

The architecture here beautifully reflects the transition from Hoysala to later Karnataka temple styles — simple yet elegant, blending spiritual purpose with local artistry. From the hilltop, the panoramic view of the countryside stretched endlessly, as if the gods themselves watched over the ancient towns of Belur and Halebeedu.

Visiting Pushpagiri felt like the perfect conclusion to my Hoysala trail — a place where stone gave way to spirit, and history merged with living faith. As the evening light bathed the hill in gold, I felt a deep sense of calm — the kind that only comes from standing where centuries of devotion still quietly breathe.

Ancient Hoysala Shri Doddagaddavalli Lakshmi Devi Temple,Hagare

Leaving the main Hoysala towns behind, I ventured toward Doddagaddavalli, a quiet village that holds one of Karnataka’s hidden gems — the Ancient Hoysala Shri Lakshmi Devi Temple. Dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, this 12th-century temple is a testament to the Hoysalas’ devotion not only to Shiva and Vishnu but also to the divine feminine.

Approaching the temple, I was immediately struck by its elegant proportions and the intricacy of the carvings on its outer walls. Unlike the more famous Hoysala temples, Doddagaddavalli retains a sense of untouched serenity — the soft murmur of villagers and the rustle of nearby trees creating a perfect backdrop for reflection. The lathe-turned pillars, finely sculpted friezes, and the ornate sanctum speak of craftsmanship that merges geometry, art, and devotion seamlessly.

Stepping inside, the calmness of the space enveloped me. The main idol of Lakshmi Devi exuded a sense of benevolence and protection, while the smaller subsidiary shrines hinted at a once-vibrant temple life filled with rituals and festivals. Standing there, it was easy to imagine the ancient chants, offerings, and prayers that once animated this sacred space.

Visiting the Doddagaddavalli Lakshmi Devi Temple felt like uncovering a quiet treasure of Karnataka’s Hoysala legacy — a place where history, devotion, and artistry coexist in perfect harmony, waiting for those willing to slow down and truly see.

Seege Gudda, Seege

As my Hoysala trail led me deeper into the serene countryside, I stumbled upon Seege Gudda, a modest yet striking hill that rises gently above the village of Seege. Unlike the intricately carved temples of Halebeedu or Arsikere, Seege Gudda offers a different kind of experience — one that connects you directly with nature, history, and the quiet pulse of rural Karnataka.

Climbing the hill, I was greeted by panoramic views of the surrounding fields and distant temple spires peeking through the greenery. The path itself felt timeless, worn smooth by generations of villagers who walked here for rituals, festivals, or simply to watch the sunset. At the summit, the air was calm and fragrant with wild grass and earth, and I could sense the spiritual aura that often accompanies such elevated sites in Karnataka — places where devotion and nature meet seamlessly.

Standing atop Seege Gudda, I realized that the Hoysala legacy is not confined to stone temples alone; it extends to the landscapes, hills, and waters that shaped the lives and faith of the people who built them. In that quiet moment, with the sun casting golden light across the countryside, Seege Gudda felt like a living testament to Karnataka’s layered history — a place of reflection, reverence, and endless inspiration.

That's the end of Day1 and we rested in Hassan. We had a quick byte of dinner and went into sound sleep as we have more exciting places to visit.

Haluvagilu Waterfalls

After days of tracing the stone-carved wonders of the Hoysala dynasty, I found myself drawn to the natural beauty of Haluvagilu Waterfalls, tucked away in the lush landscapes of Haluvagilu, Karnataka. The moment I reached the site, the roar of cascading water replaced the quiet hum of temple bells, and the air was filled with a refreshing mist that instantly revived the senses.

The waterfall tumbles gracefully over rocky ledges, forming clear pools at the base that invite visitors to pause and soak in the tranquility. Surrounded by dense greenery, the place feels like a hidden oasis, a perfect contrast to the structured grandeur of Hoysala architecture I had been exploring. Birds flitted through the canopy above, and the sound of water crashing onto stones created a natural symphony that made me linger longer than planned.

Standing there, I realized that Karnataka’s charm lies not only in its magnificent temples but also in its rivers, hills, and waterfalls — the very landscapes that inspired generations of artisans and devotees alike. Haluvagilu Waterfalls was a gentle reminder that after centuries of human devotion carved in stone, nature continues to perform its own timeless ritual of beauty and serenity.

Shettihalli Church

Continuing my journey through Karnataka’s lesser-known heritage, I arrived at the hauntingly beautiful Shettihalli Church near Settihalli. Built in the 19th century by French missionaries, this Gothic-style structure once served as a vibrant place of worship. Today, it stands partially submerged and abandoned, a striking relic that seems to float on the waters of the Hemavati Reservoir during the monsoon season.

Walking around the ruins, I was captivated by the crumbling arches, pointed windows, and ivy-clad walls — each telling a story of devotion, colonial history, and the relentless passage of time. The sight of sunlight filtering through the broken roof onto the water below added a surreal, almost ethereal quality, making the church feel more like a living painting than a building.

Despite its abandonment, the church radiates a quiet majesty. The gentle ripple of the water, the calls of distant birds, and the soft rustle of leaves created a meditative atmosphere, reminding me that beauty often persists even in decay. Visiting Shettihalli Church was a moment to pause, reflect, and appreciate how history, architecture, and nature converge in unexpected and unforgettable ways.

Shri Ranganathaswami Gudi (Konapura), Holemaragodanahalli

Continuing my journey through Karnataka’s sacred and serene spaces, I came across the Shri Ranganathaswami Gudi at Konapura, nestled in the quiet village of Holemaragodanahalli. This ancient temple, dedicated to Lord Ranganatha (a reclining form of Vishnu), exudes a calm and intimate charm, far removed from the grandeur and crowds of larger temple towns.

Approaching the temple, I was struck by its simplicity and elegance. The sanctum and the surrounding mandapas reflect centuries of devotion, with modest yet intricate carvings that capture the essence of Hoysala influence on regional architecture. The villagers’ quiet reverence and the gentle sounds of the countryside made the temple feel like a living part of the community, where spirituality and daily life seamlessly intertwine.

Inside, the serene idol of Lord Ranganatha resting on the serpent Ananta radiated a profound sense of peace. The small courtyard, the aged stone walls, and the occasional flutter of birds overhead created a meditative atmosphere that invited reflection and quiet appreciation. Visiting Shri Ranganathaswami Gudi was a gentle reminder that some of the most meaningful spiritual experiences come from intimacy, stillness, and connection with local tradition, rather than grandeur alone.

Janni Bridge, Kittane

While exploring the serene backroads of Karnataka, I stumbled upon Janni Bridge in Kittane, a modest yet charming landmark that embodies the quiet beauty of rural life. Unlike the grandeur of Hoysala temples or historic churches, this bridge offers a subtle connection between nature, history, and the everyday rhythm of village life.

Spanning a gentle stream, Janni Bridge is framed by lush greenery on either side, and the soft murmur of water beneath creates a soothing soundtrack for travelers and locals alike. Walking across it, I could see children playing along the banks and farmers tending to nearby fields — a glimpse into the simple, timeless life of Karnataka’s villages.

Though unassuming, the bridge carries a certain poetic charm. The weathered stone and timber, touched by sun and rain over decades, tell silent stories of journeys taken, festivals celebrated, and lives quietly unfolding around it. Standing there, I felt a deep sense of connection — a reminder that sometimes, the most memorable stops are those where history, nature, and human life meet unobtrusively, leaving an impression far gentler but equally lasting.

Mavanuru Shri Bettada Malleshwara Gudi, Bijemaranahalli

Venturing further into the verdant landscapes of Karnataka, I arrived at Mavanuru, home to the tranquil Shri Bettada Malleshwara Gudi. Perched on a gentle hill in Bijemaranahalli, this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in his Malleshwara form is a perfect blend of devotion and nature, offering visitors a sense of spiritual solitude away from bustling towns.

The path up the hill, lined with wildflowers and shaded by ancient trees, felt like a pilgrimage in itself. At the summit, the temple stands with understated elegance, its stone walls and carved pillars reflecting traditional Karnataka architectural styles, yet harmoniously blending into the surrounding landscape. The air is fresh, the sounds of birds and rustling leaves creating a natural symphony that enhances the temple’s serene atmosphere.

Inside, the idol of Bettada Malleshwara exudes quiet strength, and the temple courtyard invites moments of meditation and reflection. Watching the sun cast its golden light over the hilltop, I realized that places like Mavanuru are more than mere monuments; they are living sanctuaries where nature, faith, and community converge, leaving a lasting imprint on the heart of every visitor.

32 Feet Shri Shirdi Saibaba Gavi Temple (Sai Samsthana), Hirisave

Continuing my journey through Karnataka’s spiritual landscape, I reached the 32 Feet Shri Shirdi Saibaba Gavi Temple, perched along the Bangalore–Mangalore Highway near Chikkonahalli, Hirisave. Unlike the centuries-old Hoysala temples, this modern marvel offers a grand yet accessible space for devotion, drawing pilgrims from across the state and beyond.

The temple is striking not only for its devotion but also for its scale — the 32-foot idol of Shirdi Saibaba dominates the surrounding landscape, exuding serenity and blessing all who visit. The Gavi (cave) setup adds a unique dimension, evoking a sense of intimacy and meditation despite the monument’s grandeur. Walking around the complex, I felt a blend of energy and calm, as devotees offered prayers, lit incense, and moved with quiet reverence.

What struck me most was how the temple balances modern construction with spiritual atmosphere. The open courtyards, landscaped surroundings, and scenic views of the Karnataka countryside make it a peaceful retreat for reflection and devotion. Standing before the towering idol, I was reminded that spirituality in Karnataka is timeless yet evolving, bridging the ancient and contemporary in ways that touch both heart and soul.

Bidanagere Hanuman Temple, Nelathahally

As my journey wound through the heart of Karnataka, I came across the Bidanagere Hanuman Temple in Nelathahally, a modest yet profoundly spiritual spot tucked amidst verdant fields. Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the temple exudes a sense of devotion and local community spirit, drawing villagers and travelers alike to offer prayers and seek blessings.

The approach to the temple is simple but charming, with narrow paths lined by trees and the distant sound of rustling leaves creating a peaceful prelude to the shrine. Inside, the idol of Lord Hanuman stands in a posture of strength and vigilance, inspiring courage and faith among devotees. The temple courtyard is unassuming, yet it carries a quiet aura of reverence, amplified by the rhythmic chants and the soft ringing of bells.

What makes the Bidanagere Hanuman Temple particularly memorable is its connection to village life — here, spirituality is woven seamlessly into daily routines, festivals, and communal gatherings. Visiting the temple felt like experiencing a living tradition, where devotion, simplicity, and the natural beauty of Karnataka’s countryside converge in perfect harmony.

That concludes our trip. Here are some of the random pics of the trip: