Glimpses of Hoysala Architecture in Hassan

The cultural and religious heritages of Hassan are incomparable. You would love to see the enchanting monuments, age old temples jeweled with incredible Hoysala architecture displaying the magnificent culture of art in those times.

The town of Hassan was ruled by Hoysala dynasty from 11th century who mainly controlled the Malnad region of Karnataka and still you can see the ruins and memories of it. Hoysala architecture originated in the era of Hoysala Empire and was used in temples and other buildings from 11th to 14th century.

You can find the similarities of Hoysala architecture in the temples belonging to the era of Chaluykyas and Pattadakal. However, it builds its own name with its magnificent style and art. A trend observed in temples with Hoysala architecture is the double or triple shrines in the same temple and they are generally shorter in height.

You can reach Hassan by train; it has railway station of Hassan Junction which is connected to most of the major cities. If you are taking flight then you can reach at Mysore Airport or Bajpe Airport.

Travel Spots with Hoysala Architecture

Visiting the town of Belur in Hassan is must if you really want to see the Hoysala architecture. It is widely recognized as a historic heritage as it was one of the Hoysala’s capital. You will find the famous Chennakeshava Temple which exhibits the actual Hoysala architecture. It is made with soft soapstone and has alluring deep carvings with splendid construction with Gopura, Prakara and Jagati which are sections of the temple. Such constructions were unique in Hoysala era.

Halebeed

The temple of Halebeed is an impeccable religious site for Hindu devotees and perfect to see the sign of Hoysala architecture in temples of Hassan. Along with the sacred sight of temple you would love to gaze at marvelous carvings which display the mythological stories from Mahabharata, Ramayana and many others. It has two temples, one is Hoysaleshwara and the other is Kedareshwara built centuries before in Hoysala architecture. The astounding sculptures with great finishing also add charm to the beauty of this place.

Somanathpura

It is one of the oldest temples in Hassan and best specimen of early Hoysala architecture. It is festooned with commendable Hoysala style with star shapes on the outer wall of temple and the internal area contended with carved and engraved stones. You will find mesmerizing sculptures of Hindu god and goddesses carved on the walls of temple narrating the stories of Hindu mythologies.

It is the renowned temple of Goddess Amba or Hassanamba after whom the city got its title. It is more than 800 years old and caters devotees from all across the country. The temple with sculptures of Goddess exhibits true essence of Hoysala architecture used ages back in the temple.