The Channekeshava Temple at Belur is the only one of the three major Hoysala sites still in use. The construction of this temple started in AD 1116 to commemorate the victory of the Hoysalas over the Cholas at Talakad. It took around 100 years to complete the work. It is said that every Hindu deity has been represented at this temple. Local guides can be hired for detailed explanations on the history and architecture of the temple. Other Hoysala temples at Belur are the Chennigaraya and the Viranarayana.
Halebid
The construction of the Hoyasaleswara Temple was started in AD 1121 and continued for around 90 years, but was never completed. Nevertheless, even in its incomplete form, this temple is the most outstanding example of Hoysala art and architecture. Every part of the walls of this temple are covered by an endless variety of Hindu deities, sages, stylized animals, birds, and many other art forms.
Shravanbelgola
Shravanbelgola is famous for the statue of Lord Bahubali (Gomateshwar). The place is an important Jain pilgrimage center with an ancient history. The 17 meter high statue of Bahubali is said to be the tallest monolithic structure in the world. It overlooks the small town of Shravanbelgola from the top of the rocky hill known as Indragiri, and is reached. by a path with 614 rock-cut steps.
Mulayangiri - Karnataka's tallest peak
Mulayangiri - Karnataka's tallest peak stands at 6,317ft. This peak can be reached from Chikamagalur, and is around 15 kilometres away from the coffee town. Travellers can enjoy the thrill of the climb up the hill, climbing steep hill sides and seeing breathtaking vews from the many gorges. Those enthusiastic to trek, can take short treks up to the peak or even to Baba Budangiri.
