HOYSALESWARA TEMPLE - TRAVEL INFO
Historical
Distance (From Halebid Bus Station): 0.5 Kms
Commonly Visited From: Halebid Bus Station
Trip Duration (From Halebid Bus Station, Including Travel): 1-2 Hours
Transportation Options: Walk/Trek
Travel Tips: None
At a distance of less than 0.5 Kms from Halebid Bus Station, Hoysaleswara Temple is the primary attraction of Halebid. Built in Hoysala style of architecture, this temple is listed in UNESCO World Heritage Site along with other Hoysala temples at Belur & Somnathpur.
Built in 1121 AD, the temple has two shrines, one dedicated to Hoysaleswara and another for Shantaleswara named after Shantala Devi, Queen of King Vishnuvardhana. Standing on a star-shaped platform, the temple is made out of soap stone. Both the shrines are located next to each other with a common portico. The shrine comprises Shiva Linga which is still worshipped. The halls comprise huge images of Nandi, the attendant of Lord Shiva.
The temple witnessed destruction & loot by the Muslim invaders in 14th century. This remarkable structure has been acclaimed as a perfect example of Hoysala architecture. The exterior walls of the temple have a splendid stone sculptures & extensive carvings.
Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM
