Fast Facts
Location : 130 kms from Mysore, Karnataka
Attractions : Hasanamba Temple, Siddeshvara Temple etc.
Best Time To Visit : October to March
Introducing Hassan
Hassan
is a town and district headquarters of Hassan district in the state of
Karnataka. Founded in the 11th century by Channa Krishnappa Naik, a Palegar
(chieften), Hassan is fourth largest city of the state. Set an altitude of
934 mts above sea level, Hassan boasts of salubrious climate similar to
Bangalore. Hassan is named after 'Hasanamba', the goddess and presiding
deity of the town. Popularly called as the temple-architectural capital of
Karnataka, Hassan district is full of architectural jewells of Hoysala
period scattered around the countryside. The shrine of Goddess Hasanamba is
the famous tourist attraction of the city. Hassan houses the Master Control
Facility of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and also the
Malnad College of Engineering, one of the best colleges in Karnataka.
Located on the National Highway connecting Mangalore and Bangalore, Hassan
is now also a centre of transport and commerce. So don't forget to mention
this town in your itinerary during your trip to Karnataka, unless you will
remain devoid off seeing some finest architectural gems of the Hoysala
kings.
How to Reach Hassan
By Air : Bangalore Airport (186 kms) is the nearest
airport from Hassan, which is connected to major cities of India and world
by several flights. Mangalore airport (168 kms) is another nearest airport
from Hassan and it has domestic connection with cities of India. From
Bangalore and Mangalore you have to take the bus to reach Hassan.
By Train : Hassan
railway station is connected by trains with Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore,
Shimoga and Arsikree. The railway station is about 2 km from the centre of
town. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are available at the railway station for
various parts of the town.
By Bus : Hassan is connected by good motorable roads with
Mysore, Bangalore, Mangalore and other destinations of Karnataka and
neigbouring states. Driving to Hassan from Bangalore (194 km) is very
convenient and the best access option as the road is excellent. Mysore (130
km) is another good base for Hassan which is much closer than Bangalore.
Regular buses ply to and fro between Hassan and Belur. The KSTDC organises
conducting tour for Hassan from Bangalore, Mysore and other places of
Karnataka.
Local Transport : Auto-rickshaws and taxis are modes of
local transport at Hassan.
Places Where You Can Stay
Although there are quite a few hotels in Hassan, but apart from a
comfortable stay they provide all the necessary amenities to guests. Hotels
of Hassan offer a variety of accommodation options at reasonable rate. Some
of the good hotels to stay in Hassan include Hoysala Village Resort,
Southern Star, Hassan Ashok, Hotel Dwarka, Satyaprakash Hotel, Prashanth
Tourist Home and Hotel Madhu Nivas.
Tourist Attractions in Hassan
Hasanamba Temple : One of the major attraction of Hassan,
the Hasanamba Temple opens only for about a week in the Ashvija month.
Siddeshvara Temple : Siddeshvara Temple was constructed by
Nayaka ruler Venkatappa Nayaka. It is an interesting temple and deserves a
visit.
Tourist Attractions Around Hassan
Gorur : Gorur is 22 kms away from Hassan town. It is the
place where a dam across the river Hemavathi has been built. Gorur is also a
perfect picnic spot or outings with the family.
Belur : Belur is situated at a distance of 34 kms on the
banks of Yagachi river. The Chennakesava Temple is the main attraction of
Belur. One of the largest and notable temples in Hassan district,
Channakesava temple was built by Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana in 1117 AD. A
monument of superb architectural beauty, the temple has intricate carvings
on its stone walls. Besides, the gravity pillars in the courtyard are the
unique features of Channakesava temple.
Halebidu : Located 38 km from Hassan town and 16 km from
Belur, Halebidu houses the famous Hoyaleswara temple. Constructed in 1121
AD, the walls of the temple are carved with detailed friezes and sculpture
depicting scenes mentioned in great Hindu epics. Close to this temple there
is an another temple, the Kedareshwara temple known for is its high quality
sculptures.
Manjarabad Fort : Just 48 kms from Hassan Town, Manjarabad
Fort is hidden under natural cliffs.
Manjarabad Fort was primarily hideout for Tipu sultan from British rulers.
Shravanbelagola : Situated 52 kms away from Hassan town in
Channarayapatna Taluka, Shravanbelagola is a popular Jain Pilgrimage Centre.
Sharavanbelagola lies between two rocky hills, Indragiri and Chandragiri.
Atop the Indragiri hill is a 17mts tall monolithic statue of Lord
Gomateshwara and is said to be one of the tallest monolithic statues in the
world. The 1100 years old statue was commissioned by Chavundaraya, army
commender of the Ganga Dynastu that ruled over southern Karnataka from 350
AD to 999 AD. Once in every 12 years Mahamatakabahisheka ceremony is held
here when devotees offer prayers to the great Jain saint. Here you will also
see the great Bahubali temple (58ft high) and Channaryapatna Chandra
Mouleshwara Temple, the second standing Shiva's temple in India.
