An absolute must see destination in any cultural tour of India, Belur, located on the banks of the river Yagachi in Hassan district, was the capital of the powerful south Indian dynasty of the Hoysalas. Also known as the Banaras of the South, “Dakshin Varanasi”, and the place is home to the awe-inspiring Chennakesava Temple, a fine specimen of Hoysala architecture.

17 km away is another splendid attraction of Halebid which was the Hoysala capital before Belur. Previously known as Dwarasamudra, the place is famous for the Hoysaleswara temple which is a cultural extravaganza. While visiting these destinations, don’t miss Sravanabelagola for the gigantic statue of Gometashvara.