Hoysala temples of Belur, Halebidu and Somanathapura
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Star-shaped temples of the Hoysala dynasty, covered in finely carved soapstone figures, inscribed together as the Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas.
TempleBelur and Halebidu (Hassan district); Somanathapura (Mysuru district)Best time to visit: October to MarchUNESCO heritage 2023
Highlights
- Chennakeshava Temple at Belur, still in worship
- Hoysaleshwara Temple at Halebidu with its carved friezes
- Keshava Temple at Somanathapura on a star-shaped platform
- Bracket figures of dancers (madanikas)
Significance
Built between the 12th and 13th centuries, these temples are known for their detailed carvings of gods, epics, animals and daily life, made possible by soft soapstone.