Belur (Chennakeshava Temple) - Karnataka
Discover Belur
Belur lies on the banks of the River Yagachi and this former capital of the Hoysala Empire is renowned for exemplary examples of architecture from that period. Referred to as “earthly Vaikuntha” (Vishnu’s abode) and “dakshina Varanasi” (southern holy city of Hindus), this small but impressive town took 190 to complete.
Things to see in Belur
- Chennakeshava Temple. A must see in Karnataka, the 900-year-old Chennakeshava Temple was built entirely from soft sandstone by three generations, and took a whopping 103 years to finish. Despite being damaged and plundered on several occasions, repairs and rebuilding have kept it in its state of glory.
- Defying gravity, standing aloft in the middle of the temple courtyard, the gravity pillar is definitely a site to behold. At 42 feet high, the pillar rests on a single stone, supported completely by its own weight.
The best way to see Belur
If you would like to visit Belur, why not take a look at one of our wonderful ATOL and ABTA protected holidays? Please remember all our private tours are designed to meet your exact requirements, and the tours mentioned are just examples to help inspire you. Contact our travel experts on 01792 315499 or email info@aitholidays.com for more information.
