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Hassan!

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Population

135,000

schedule

Best Time

October to March

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Time Needed

2-3 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (β‚Ή)

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location_on Karnataka map South India πŸ•‰οΈ Spiritual πŸ›οΈ Heritage Temples Historical Sites Hassan Karnataka Belur Halebidu Hoysala temples South India temple architecture

Hassan is a city in Karnataka, South India, serving as a convenient base for exploring the Hoysala temple architecture of Belur and Halebidu. It's a commercial hub with a relatively laid-back atmosphere compared to larger cities.

Hassan offers a chance to delve into intricate temple carvings and experience rural Karnataka. However, Hassan itself lacks major attractions within the city limits and primarily serves as a transit point. Expect basic infrastructure and limited nightlife.

Allocate at least two days to comfortably visit Belur and Halebidu. Hassan is well-connected by road and rail, making it accessible from major South Indian cities. Consider hiring a car for convenient temple hopping.

When To Visit

Best Time

October to March

20-30 degrees C

Pleasant and dry weather makes it ideal for sightseeing and temple visits. The days are sunny, and the evenings are cool.

Why Visit:

The comfortable climate is perfect for exploring the region's historical sites without the discomfort of extreme heat or humidity. This is also the peak season for cultural festivals in the region. The weather is ideal for photography.

Tip: Expect higher hotel rates and more tourists at popular attractions, especially during weekends and holidays. Book accommodation and transportation in advance.

Shoulder Season

June to September

25-32 degrees C

Monsoon season brings moderate to heavy rainfall. The landscape turns lush green.

Why Visit:

The rain washes the temples, making the carvings appear more vibrant. Fewer tourists mean a more peaceful experience, and hotel rates are generally lower.

Tip: Some roads might be in poor condition due to the rain. Outdoor activities may be limited.

Avoid

April to May

32-38 degrees C

Extremely hot and humid weather can make sightseeing uncomfortable. The heat can be oppressive.

Why Avoid:

The intense heat makes exploring outdoor attractions unpleasant. There are no specific festivals or events during this period to compensate.

Note: Dehydration and heatstroke are potential risks. It's best to avoid visiting during these months.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Chennakesava Temple, Belur

⏱ 3-4 hours Free

A masterpiece of Hoysala architecture, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It's renowned for its intricate carvings, detailed sculptures, and exquisite craftsma...

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Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu

⏱ 2-3 hours Free

Another magnificent Hoysala temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It features two shrines connected by a common platform, showcasing intricate carvings and...

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Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Nuggehalli

⏱ 1 hour Free

A lesser-known but equally impressive Hoysala temple. It is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, an avatar of Vishnu, and showcases excellent craftsmanship....

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Shravanabelagola

⏱ 4-5 hours Free

A significant Jain pilgrimage site, famous for the monolithic statue of Gomateshwara (Bahubali). The statue stands atop Vindhyagiri Hill and is a symb...

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Gorur Dam

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

A scenic dam built across the Hemavati River. It's a popular spot for picnics and enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape....

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Shettihalli Rosary Church (The Floating Church)

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

A ruined church that gets partially submerged in water during the monsoon season. It offers a unique and picturesque sight....

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Things To Do

attractions

Temple Hopping Tour

⏱ 1-2 days πŸ’° β‚Ή2000-4000 per person (including transport and guide)

Visit the Chennakesava Temple in Belur, the Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu, and other nearby temples. Learn about the H...

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attractions

Photography Tour

⏱ 1 day πŸ’° β‚Ή1500-3000 per person (including transport)

Capture the beauty of the Hoysala temples and the surrounding landscape. Learn photography techniques from a professiona...

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attractions

Village Walk

⏱ 2-3 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή500-1000 per person (including guide)

Take a guided walk through a local village near Hassan. Observe the daily life of the villagers and learn about their cu...

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attractions

Yoga and Meditation Retreat

⏱ 3-7 days πŸ’° β‚Ή5000-15000 per person (including accommodation, food, and classes)

Attend a yoga and meditation retreat in a peaceful setting near Hassan. Practice yoga, meditation, and other wellness ac...

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Hoysala Festival (if available)

2-3 days | Free (entry to the festival)

A cultural festival showcasing traditional music, dance, and art forms of the Hoysala region. It is ...

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celebration

Attend a Local Wedding

Full day | Invitation required (usually free)

Experience the vibrant traditions and customs of a traditional Karnataka wedding. It's a unique insi...

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celebration

Visit a Coffee Plantation

2-3 hours | β‚Ή500-1000 per person (including tour and tasting)

Learn about the process of coffee cultivation, from planting to harvesting and processing. Karnataka...

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celebration

Learn Kannada Cooking

3-4 hours | β‚Ή1000-2000 per person (including ingredients and meal)

Learn to prepare traditional Karnataka dishes from a local chef or home cook. It's a fun and interac...

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celebration

Yakshagana Performance

2-3 hours | β‚Ή100-300 per person

Witness a Yakshagana performance, a traditional folk theater form from Karnataka. It combines music,...

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celebration

Visit a Local Market

1-2 hours | Free (shopping costs extra)

Explore the vibrant local market in Hassan. Experience the sights, sounds, and smells of a tradition...

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View all cultural experiences

Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Bisi Bele Bath
Bisi Bele Bath

A flavorful rice dish with lentils and vegetables (try at local restaurants).

Masala Dosa
Masala Dosa

A crispy crepe filled with spiced potatoes (available at most South Indian restaurants).

Mysore Pak
Mysore Pak

A sweet fudge-like dessert made from ghee, sugar, and gram flour (try at local sweet shops).

Thatte Idli
Thatte Idli

Large, plate-sized idlis served with chutney and sambar (try at local tiffin centers).

Where to Eat

Hotel Parijat

Hotel Parijat

β‚Ήβ‚Ή

South Indian

πŸ“ City center

A popular spot for authentic South Indian cuisine. Known for its delicious dishes and friendly service. Expect a casual atmosphere.

Bisi Bele Bath

β‚Ή400-600 for two

Southern Star Restaurant

Southern Star Restaurant

β‚Ήβ‚Ήβ‚Ή

Multi-cuisine

πŸ“ Southern Star Hotel

Offers a variety of Indian and international dishes. It has a comfortable ambiance and good service. Ideal for a relaxed dining experience.

Biryani

β‚Ή800-1200 for two

Street Food Spots

Hassan City Market

Hassan City Market

πŸ’° Budget: β‚Ή50-150 per person

⚠️ Tips: Be cautious of hygiene. Try the local snacks from vendors with a high turnover of customers.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Hassan

More restaurants & dishes from Hassan

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

City Center

Convenient for accessing restaurants, shops, and transportation. Can be noisy and crowded, but offers easy access to amenities.

Best For: First-time visitors and those relying on public transport.

Near the Railway Station

Ideal for travelers arriving by train. Has budget-friendly accommodations but can be less appealing in terms of ambiance.

Best For: Budget travelers and those with early morning train departures.

Accommodation Options

Budget

πŸ’°

β‚Ή800-1200/night

Hotel Abhiruchi

πŸ“ Near the bus stand

Basic but clean rooms, convenient location for transportation. Good for a short stay.

β‚Ή800-1200/night

Hotel Suvarna Regency

πŸ“ Near the railway station

Decent rooms with essential amenities, close to transportation hubs. A reasonable option for budget travelers.

β‚Ή900-1400/night

Mid-Range

🏨

β‚Ή2000-3000/night

Southern Star Hassan

πŸ“ City center

Comfortable rooms, on-site restaurant, and decent service. A good option for a comfortable stay.

β‚Ή2000-3000/night

Hotel Hassan Ashok

πŸ“ Near the highway

Well-maintained rooms, a restaurant, and a bar. A comfortable option for families and business travelers.

β‚Ή2500-3500/night

Luxury

✨

β‚Ή4000+/night

The Gateway Hotel Hassan

πŸ“ Near the city center

Spacious rooms, excellent service, and multiple dining options. Offers a luxurious and relaxing stay.

β‚Ή4000+/night

Clarks Inn Hassan

πŸ“ Close to the main attractions

Modern rooms, a rooftop restaurant, and a swimming pool. A great option for a luxurious experience.

β‚Ή3500+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR), 195km from city

train

By Train

Stations:

Hassan Junction (HAS)

Well-connected to major cities in South India. Located in the city center.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 36 hours (β‚Ή1500-3000)
  • From Mumbai: 20 hours (β‚Ή1000-2000)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Hassan Bus Stand
Routes:
  • From Bangalore: 4 hours (β‚Ή500-800)
  • From Mysore: 3 hours (β‚Ή400-600)

Note: Trains more comfortable for long distances.

Getting Around

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

πŸ’° β‚Ή50-150 depending on distance

Best for: Short distances within the city

Bargain before starting the ride. Confirm the fare beforehand.

directions

Local Bus

πŸ’° β‚Ή10-30 per ride

Best for: Budget travelers and longer distances

Buses can be crowded. Check the route and schedule in advance.

directions

Taxi/Uber/Ola

πŸ’° β‚Ή200-500 depending on distance

Best for: Comfortable and convenient travel

Book in advance, especially during peak hours. Check the meter or confirm the fare before starting the ride.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Light cotton clothing is recommended during the summer months. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: β‚Ή1500, Mid: β‚Ή3000, Luxury: β‚Ή5000+

ATMs: Widely available in the city

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for small transactions. Cards are accepted at larger establishments.

Bargaining: Expected at local markets and with auto-rickshaw drivers

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water. Avoid tap water.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unhygienic vendors. Be cautious of spicy food if you are not used to it.

Common Issues: Dehydration, heatstroke, and stomach upset. Carry ORS (oral rehydration solution) and any necessary medications.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Available at local stores. Airtel and Vodafone are popular networks. You will need a copy of your passport and visa.

WiFi: Available at most hotels and some restaurants

translate

Language & Tipping

Language: English proficiency is limited. Learning a few basic Kannada phrases can be helpful.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: β‚Ή20-50

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