Gorgeous Shettihalli Church

This rosary church was built in 18th century by the French missionaries, at a place called Shettihalli in Hassan. The church was on the banks of river Hemavathi, with a village surrounding it. During 1960s, the State government decided to use Hemavathi river’s water for the betterment of human lives in the district and the Gorur Dam was created. As with the consequence of any other dam construction, the villages had to be relocated upstream in order to avoid flooding. Hence with the dam construction, the Shettihalli villagers were also shifted to a different location leaving the church behind.

The Shettihalli church stood strong for more than 40 years testing the time and getting submerged every year during monsoon, when the flood gates open. It is believed that the longevity of the rosary church is because bricks laid there mixed with jaggery and eggs, making the structure immortal. The church is in complete ruins now with only the outer structure standing.

Shutterbugs are welcomed to this place to enjoy the mystery of the submerged church or the church outside water, standing in glory. Ideal for a day’s outing, where one can relax in the green landscape among which the ruins stand, catch fish or go on a boat ride through the church. For night stay, one must carry their own tent and food, as the place is pretty deserted at night.

To visit this place, any time during the year is a good time. Whenever you go, be prepared to be surprised by the beauty of the nature, among which Shettihalli church stands with its grandeur.