Location : 34 kms from Hassan,
Karnataka
Famous as : Dakshina Varanasi
Main attractions : Chennakesava
Temple
Built By : Vishnuvardhan in 1117
A.D. |
Tourism in
Belur
Southern Banaras Belur, the temple town is
located 34 kms from Hassan. Famous for its
exquisite temple, Belur is known as the
Dakshina Varanasi or Southern Banaras.
The serenity of Belur is attributed to the
celebrated Chennakesava Temple built by the
Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana in 1117 A.D to
commemorate his conversion from Jainism to
Vaishnavism.
The main structure of the temple, which is
star-shaped, is a homogenous architectural
unit on a raised platform. Inside, even in
the darkness, you can see the hand-lathe
turned shining pillars, each unique in its
own splendour.
PRIME ATTRACTIONS
Chennakesava Temple:
The ornamental gopuram of the Chennakesava
Temple appears unexpectedly surround a bend.
Hawkers sell antique jewellery. In a corner
of the vast courtyard are tossed a golden
horse and a temple chariot.
The winged figure of Garuda, Lord Vishnu's
carrier, stands at the entrance, facing the
temple palms touching in homage. Everything
is carved in a gleaming, polished black
stone, which looks like metal.
The breathtaking temple reigns on a
star-shaped pedestal. Every possible surface
is covered with the most perfectly
proportioned figures.
Pillars:
Inside, in the startling darkness gleam the
beautiful handlathe-turned rounded pillars,
each unique in its filigreed splendour.
The Narasimha Pillar once revolved on its
ball bearings. A small space has been left
on it to be sculpted by anyone who has the
talent. It remains untouched.
Madanikas (Bracket Figures):
The four famous bracket figures on the
ornate ceiling have been inspired by
Shantala Devi's voluptuous beauty. One
sculptured beauty communicates with a pet
parrot whose tail is peacock-like while
another wrings water from her long hair and
one can see the drops collected on
hair-ends.
The 650 elephants charging on the frieze
around the walls outside are all different
from each other. The 38 Bracket figures on
the walls are beautiful, pensive, playful
and amorous women, lifting the temple to
unprecedented heights of excellence.
Shantala Devi:
On the smooth circular platform in front of
the shrine, stands the sculpture of the
beautiful Shantala Devi, queen of King
Vishnuvardhana. The jewellery is hollow and
movable.
The delicacy and attention to the tiniest
details here are incredible. Each feature,
bangle, strand of hair is carved with care.
TRAVEL INFORMATION
HOW TO GET THERE
Air: Bangalore is the nearest airport.
Rail: Hassan is the nearest rail head.
Road: The place is connected with Hassan (34
kms), Mysore (149 kms), Bangalore (222 kms).
WHERE TO STAY
Sri Raghavendra Tourist Home, Near
Channakeshava Temple, Belur.
Sri Annapoorna Lodge, Temple Road.
Sri Vishnu Lodge, Main Road.
Sri Gayathri Bhawan, Main Road.
Travellers Bungalow, P.W.D., Belur.
Hotel Mayura Velapuri, KSTDC, Belur.
|
