Ravaged twice in history, the ruins of Halebidustand tall as a gesture of India’s rich past. The Hoysala site holds many stories, that enchant travellers like they did ancient wayfarers.
Halebidu was the glorified royal capital of the Hoysala kingdom in 12th Century. Halebidu, which was previously called Dorasamudra or Dwarasamudra, got the new name, which literally translates to ‘The Old City’ because it was ruined two times during the invasion of Malik Kafur.
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The centrepiece of this site is the Hoysaleshwar temple. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, is built on a star shaped platform. Ketumalla, a minister of Vishnuvardhana the Hoysala ruler, built Hoyasaleswara temple during 1121 AD. The construction of the temple took about 105 years to complete. The walls of the temple are covered with an endless variety of depictions from Hindu mythology, animals, birds and dancing figures. Each sculpture in the temple is unique and beautifully carved.
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The basement of the temple has the most richly sculptured friezes. Scenes from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata add to the grandeur.There are pierced windows on the walls, about a meter high each, with divinities set on pedestals with canopies above. The south door is beautifully sculptured.
The Kedareshwara temple in the vicinity, is built in the Chalukya style. It was built by King Ballala II, and is considered to be a gem of architecture. The basement shows the rows of Elephants, Horse, Lion and an imaginary animal called Makara.
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Halebidu is also a reminder of India’s syncretic past, as the Shaivite temples are interspersed with Jain basadis dedicated to Parsvanatha, Santhanatha and Adinatha.
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ParshvanathaBasadi is notable for its architecture, beautiful navaranga halls and exquisite carvings on the lathe turned pillars. It stands close to the Dwarsaudra Lake, and makes a picturesque setting in the twilight of the day.
Halebidu is connected by rail and road to Hassan and Mangalore. It is an overnight journey from Mangalore. Situated in the Deccan plains, Halebidu is accessible to visitors throughout the year.
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