Halebidu

Halebidu Karnataka, once called Dorasamudra, was the capital of the Hoysala Empire in the 11th century CE. After repeated invasions by the Delhi Sultanate in the 14th century, the city was left in ruins, which gave it the name Halebidu, meaning “old city.” Today, it is one of the most important Halebidu tourist places, drawing history lovers and devotees from across the world.

Famous for its stunning Hoysala architecture, Halebidu is home to intricately carved Hindu and Jain temples that depict Lord Shiva, Vishnu, Devi, and Jain Tirthankaras. Inscriptions and sculptures reflect a blend of North and South Indian traditions, making Halebidu tourism culturally rich and unique.

Key attractions include the grand Hoysaleswara Temple, Kedareshwara Temple, Jaina Basadi, and Hulikere Stepwell. These monuments, located close to each other, showcase the spiritual and architectural legacy of Karnataka.

The Halebidu Hoysaleswara Temple, built in the 12th century, is one of the largest and most remarkable monuments of the Hoysala dynasty. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this architectural marvel was commissioned by King Vishnuvardhana on the banks of a vast man-made lake. Despite invasions by the Delhi Sultanate in the 14th century that left it partly in ruins, the temple still stands as a masterpiece of Halebidu tourism.

The temple is unique as it follows a twin-temple style, housing two Shiva Lingas—Hoysaleswara and Santaleswara—symbolizing masculine and feminine aspects. Two massive Nandi statues face the shrines, while a smaller sanctum honors Surya, the Sun God.

What makes the Hoysaleswara Temple Halebidu world-famous are its intricate carvings, detailed friezes, and sculptures reflecting Shaivism, Vaishnavism, Shaktism, and even Jain traditions. Despite centuries of damage, the artwork, iconography, and inscriptions continue to fascinate visitors and history lovers.