Halebid - ಹಳೆಬೀಡು

This city, one time capital of the Hoysalas, was known as Dwarasamudra. It was founded in early 11th century, but was ravaged by Muslim invasions by the end of the 14th century. Though many buildings had fallen prey, a few shrines like the Hoysaleswara and Kedareswara temple survived. Construction of the Hoysaleswara temple was started in 1121 AD by Ketamalla, a general of King Vishnuvardhana. There are two shrines, one dedicated to Lord Siva as Hoysaleswara and the other to Shantaleswara. These are very similar to the Belur shrines inevery detail. The most magnificent part of the temple is its oter wall, which is completely covered with freizes of amazing variety. The Kedareswara temple was nuilt by Ballala II. The temple has three superstructures and some fine sculptures. Situated a short distance from the foothills of the Western Ghats,16 km from Belur, 32 km from Hassan and 90 km from Sravanabelgola