Explore UNESCO Sites Belur & Halebidu + Shravanabelagola

Exploring the UNESCO-recognized sites of Belur and Halebidu, along with the historic town of Shravanabelagola, offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich cultural heritage of India’s Hoysala empire. This 14-hour tour provides an intimate experience, showcasing breathtaking stone carvings, intricate sculptures, and the majestic Gomateshwara statue. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an enriching adventure, this tour promises to captivate your senses and leave you with a deeper appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship that defined the Hoysala era. Imagine stepping back in time and uncovering the captivating stories that have long been etched into these UNESCO-recognized sites.

Good To Know

1. The tour visits three UNESCO-recognized sites: Chennakeshava Temple and Halebidu in Belur, as well as Shravanabelagola, over a 14-hour duration.

2. The tour includes hotel pickup, traditional breakfast and lunch, monument entry fees, and an English-speaking guide, with a group size limited to 8 participants.

3. At Shravanabelagola, visitors can climb 650 steps to view the over 1,000-year-old Gomateshwara statue, the world’s tallest monolithic sculpture.

4. The Chennakeshava Temple in Belur showcases exquisite stone carvings, including dancing maidens and intricate domed ceilings, reflecting the artistry of the Hoysala empire.

5. The Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu is renowned for its unique sculptures and detailed outer walls depicting Hindu gods and scenes from epics.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers an opportunity to explore two UNESCO-recognized sites – Belur’s Chennakeshava Temple and Halebidu – as well as the significant Jain pilgrimage site of Shravanabelagola.

Priced from $225 per person, this 14-hour tour is limited to 8 participants and includes hotel pickup, traditional breakfast and lunch, monument entry fees, and an English-speaking guide.

Visitors can expect to visit the ancient town of Shravanabelagola, climb 650 steps to view the iconic Gomateshwara statue, and marvel at the exquisite carvings and domed ceilings of the Chennakeshava and Hoysaleswara temples.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and flexible booking options.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a pickup from Bengaluru, followed by a 45-minute stop in Kunigal for a traditional breakfast. Then, the group will visit the ancient town of Shravanabelagola, a significant Jain pilgrimage site over 2,300 years old. Visitors will climb 650 steps on Vindyagiri hill to view the towering 1,000-year-old Gomateshwara statue, one of the tallest monolithic sculptures in the world. Next, the tour explores the 900-year-old Chennakeshava Temple in Belur, known for its exquisite stone carvings and intricate domed ceilings. Finally, the group will visit the over 900-year-old Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu, renowned for its unique sculptures and carvings.

Destination	Duration
Shravanabelagola	2 hours
Chennakeshava Temple, Belur	2 hours
Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu	1 hour

Pickup and Breakfast

Commencing from central Bengaluru, the tour kicks off with a pickup before heading to Kunigal for a traditional 45-minute breakfast stop.

Here, participants savor a local feast, seeing the flavors and customs of the region. The breakfast provides a delightful start to the day, fueling guests for the exploration of the UNESCO-listed sites ahead.

With a group size limited to 8 participants, the experience offers an intimate and personalized journey, allowing for deeper engagement with the guides and the cultural heritage on display.

Shravanabelagola

Following the traditional breakfast, the group heads to the ancient town of Shravanabelagola, a significant Jain pilgrimage site dating back over 2,300 years.

Visitors climb 650 steps on Vindyagiri hill to view the Gomateshwara statue, one of the tallest monolithic sculptures in the world, standing over 1,000 years old.

This awe-inspiring monument offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

The group spends approximately 2 hours exploring the historical town and taking in the serene atmosphere before continuing on to the next destination.

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Chennakeshava Temple, Belur

Visitors next explore the over 900-year-old Chennakeshava Temple, commissioned by Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana in 1116 AD.

They’ll admire the temple’s exquisite stone carvings, including dancing maidens and intricate domed ceilings.

Key features include:

• Commissioned by Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana
• Over 900 years old
• Exquisite stone carvings
• Dancing maidens and intricate domed ceilings
• Tour duration: 2 hours, followed by lunch

After the temple visit, the group enjoys a 45-minute lunch at a local restaurant before moving on to the next destination, the Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu.

Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu

After enjoying a 45-minute lunch at a local restaurant, the tour moves on to the next destination – the over 900-year-old Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu.

This Hindu temple is known for its unique sculptures and intricate carvings. Visitors can observe the detailed outer walls featuring Hindu gods, scenes from epics, and intricate designs.

The temple’s architectural style is a prime example of the Hoysala empire’s artistic prowess. Guests have an hour to explore the temple and appreciate the exceptional craftsmanship that has stood the test of time.

The tour then departs Halebidu, completing the exploration of these remarkable UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Included Features

As part of the tour package, travelers can expect a comprehensive set of inclusions. The tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off from central Bengaluru, along with all monument entry fees and admission tickets.

Transport by air-conditioned vehicle, traditional breakfast and lunch, and an accomplished guide are also provided throughout the tour. Plus, the tour includes:

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
• Flexible booking with the option to reserve now and pay later
• Group size limited to 8 participants for a more personalized experience
• Live English-speaking tour guide

The inclusion of these features ensures a seamless and enjoyable UNESCO sites exploration experience.

Additional Information

Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase during the tour, allowing travelers to indulge in local beverages if desired.

Personal shopping opportunities abound at various stops, where visitors can browse and purchase souvenirs, handicrafts, and local specialties.

While the tour package covers the major expenses, gratuities for the guide and any additional services aren’t included, allowing participants to show their appreciation at their discretion.

The tour’s flexible booking policy enables travelers to reserve their spot now and pay later, making it convenient for those with busy schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

You’re allowed to bring your own food and drinks on the tour, but the tour includes traditional breakfast and lunch. Alcoholic drinks can be purchased separately during the tour. Bringing your own is not required.

Are There Any Specific Dress Code Requirements?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but it’s best to wear comfortable, modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. Light, breathable fabrics are recommended for the walking and climbing involved.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not specifically wheelchair accessible, as there are steps at some of the sites. However, the tour provider can make reasonable accommodations for guests with mobility challenges if notified in advance.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration or Customize the Itinerary?

The tour can be customized or extended based on the traveler’s preferences. Guests can discuss their needs with the tour operator, who’ll provide options to personalize the itinerary or increase the duration.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The tour has a flexible cancellation policy – travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This allows for last-minute changes in plans without penalty.

The Sum Up

This comprehensive tour immerses visitors in the rich cultural heritage of the Hoysala empire. Explore UNESCO-recognized sites, marvel at stunning stone carvings, and climb to the majestic Gomateshwara statue. With expert guidance, traditional cuisine, and a maximum of 8 participants, this tour offers an intimate and enriching experience. Discover the architectural wonders and artistic legacy of Belur, Halebidu, and Shravanabelagola on this unforgettable journey through India’s history.

You can check availability for your dates here: