Shravana Belugola

Climate/Weather

The months of January and February are slightly cold while summers begin from March and continues till May. Post monsoon begins from October and remains till December. The best season to visit Karnataka is definitely the winter (between October to February) where the travelers can enjoy the most of Karnataka.

Interesting things to Visit

Mahamastakabhisheka, the great head anointing ceremony of Bhagawan Bahubali have been performed once in every 12 years. The huge statue of Lord Gommateshwara is getting pooja by pouring thousands of pots of milk, ghee, sandal, saffron, flowers etc., from devotees attended from all over the world. The last Mahamasthakabhisheka was held here in February 2006. The next Mahamastakabhisheka will be held in 2018 A.D.

Chandragiri: Chandragiri, a small hill is located just opposite to the Vindhyagiri. Chandragiri has memorials to numerous monks and shravakas who have meditated there. Chndragiri also has famous jain temples and the tomb of Chandragupta Maurya, famous patron of Jainism can be seen.
Shravanabelagola is the seat of the ancient Bhattaraka Math, belonging to the Desiya Gana lineage of Mula Sangha of Digambar monstic tradition. The Bhattarakas are all named Charukeerthi.

Nearest visiting places

• Ramanathapura Temples

The temples of Ramanathapura stand testimony to the architectural grandeur of the Chola and Hoysala ages, writes B M Ravi Bettasoge.Hassan brings to one’s mind art, culture and history. It has made a name for itself as a tourist destination, a haven of art and as a strong inter-link between the past and the future

• Shravanabelagola Temples

Shravanabelagola is one of the most popular Jain pilgrim centers located in the Hassan district of Karnataka state. Shravanabelagola is at a distance of 52 Kms from Hassan town, the headquarters of the Hassan district and 146 Kms from Bangalore. In Kannada (the state language), ‘Bel’ means white and ‘kola’ means the pond, an allusion to the beautiful pond in the middle of the town.Shravanabelagola is wedged between two rocky hills - Vindyagiri and Chandragiri.

• Belur Archeology

Belur was the early capital of the Hoysala Empire. With Halebidu which is only 16 km away, this is one of the major tourist destinations in Karnataka, India. Belur is located in Hassan district. According to inscriptions discovered here, it was also referred to as Velapuri.Belur is the Chennakesava temple complex which contains the Chennakesava Temple

• Halebid Archeology

The present day Halebid was earlier known as Dorasamudra. This was the capital of the Hoyasala kingdom, which became prominent in the Mysore area in the 12th-13th century after the Ganga dynasty. The fort and pa;ace no longer exist. Now it is a small village with a group of temples

• Belur Historical

Belur in Hassan district (222 kms from Bangalore and 38 kms from Hassan) is famous for its magnificent Hoysala Temple Complex. The Chennakeshava temple here was completed in 1116 by Hoysala Vishnuvardhana to commemorate his victory over the Chola

• Doddagadduvalli

About 16km (10 miles) from Hassan on the way to Belur is Doddagaddavalli, a village popular for the 12th century Lakshmi Devi temple.Doddagaddavalli is set in a scenic rural environment. According to the legends the temple was built in 1114 A.D. by a merchant called Kallahana Rahuta, a merchant or high officer in the Hoysala court

• Halebid Historical

Halebidu is located in Hassan district in Karnataka.Ketumalla, the chief of staff of Hoysala Kingdom, built this temple during 1121 A.D and attributed to his king, Vishnuvardhana and queen, Shantala Devi. Even then it is learnt that it took 105 years to complete

• Harnavalli Archeology

In the 13th century when the Hoysala kingdom was at the peak of it’s power, a temple was constructed in every area, its detailed sculptures and decorations

• Shrvanabelogola Historical

Shravanabelagola is one of the most popular Jain pilgrim centers located in the Hassan district of Karnataka state. Shravanabelagola is at a distance of 52 Kms from Hassan town, the headquarters of the Hassan district and 146 Kms from Bangalore

• Koravangala Archeology

Koravangala is a store house of Hoysala architecture. This scenic village, earlier called Kora Mangala, is home to three Hoysala style temples of the 12th century. All the temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva

• Hemavati River

The Hemavati River is a very important tributary of the Kaveri River. It starts in the Western Ghats at an elevation of about 1,219 metres[1] near Ballala rayana durga in the Chikmagalur District of the state of Karnataka, in southern India, and flows through Chikkamagalooru, Hassan District and Mysore district before joining the Kaveri near Krishnarajasagara

• Bisle Ghat Hills

• Mosale Archeology

Location info

karnataka.

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Karnataka. 4G is reliable in Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Hubli, and along highways. Coverage may be weaker in deep forest areas of Bandipur, Nagarhole, and certain Western Ghats sections. Most hotels, resorts, and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

Food & restaurants nearby

Food options are available in the nearest town. Karnataka cuisine ranges from coastal seafood to Udupi vegetarian to Coorg’s pandi curry. Dosa, idli, bisi bele bath, and filter coffee are iconic.

Hotels & accommodation nearby

Accommodation is available in the nearest town or city. Options range from budget lodges to luxury resorts. Booking ahead during Dasara (Mysore) and peak winter season is recommended.

Helpline & emergency contacts

Tourist Helpline: 1364 (toll-free, 24×7). Police: 112 (all-India emergency). Ambulance: 108. Women’s Helpline: 1091. Karnataka Police Tourist Helpline: 112.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pumps are available in the nearest town or on the approach road — check locally for the closest option.

Best time to visit Shravana Belugola

October to March offers pleasant weather for exploring historic sites. Early morning (8-10 AM) and late afternoon (3-5 PM) are best for photography with good light and fewer crowds. Avoid midday heat (March-May).

How to reach Shravana Belugola

Shravana Belugola is accessible by road from nearby towns and cities. KSRTC buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws serve the area. Well-connected to major cities. Karnataka is well-connected by air (Kempegowda International Airport Bangalore, Mangalore International Airport, Hubli Airport), rail (extensive network with major junctions at Bangalore, Mysore, Hubli, Mangalore), and road (NH 44, NH 48, NH 75, NH 66). State buses (KSRTC) and private operators connect all towns regularly.

Timings & opening hours

Typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM daily. Some ASI-protected monuments have specific visiting hours. Closed on certain public holidays.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry fee: INR 10-30 for Indian nationals, INR 100-300 for foreign nationals (at ASI-monument sites). Some sites are free. Camera fee: INR 25-50. Video camera fee: INR 100-200.

Duration needed

1-2 hours for a standard visit. 2-3 hours for thorough exploration with photography. Half a day for sites with extensive complexes.

Safety tips

Sites are generally safe. Watch your step on uneven stone surfaces, staircases, and high platforms. Do not climb on fragile structures. Follow ASI/state archaeology department rules. Beware of monkeys at certain sites — do not carry food openly.

Things to carry

Carry drinking water, snacks, comfortable walking shoes, hat/cap, sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, power bank, and personal medications. A light jacket or umbrella is recommended during monsoon season (June-September). Comfortable walking shoes (essential for exploring large sites). Guidebook or audio guide for historical context. Small change for ticket counters. Umbrella/hat for sun protection.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest railway station connects to major Indian cities. Nearest airport depends on location. KSRTC buses available from district headquarters.

History of Shravana Belugola

Shravana Belugola is a historically significant site in Karnataka, reflecting the state’s glorious past spanning over two millennia. Karnataka was ruled by powerful dynasties including the Kadambas, Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagara Empire, Bahmani Sultanate, and the Kingdom of Mysore, each leaving remarkable architectural and cultural legacies. This site represents an important chapter in Karnataka’s rich historical narrative.

Things to do at Shravana Belugola

Exploring the monument/complex, photography, reading information boards, hiring a guide for detailed history, sketching/drawing, attending sound and light shows (where available), and visiting the site museum.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Is photography allowed at Shravana Belugola? A: Photography is generally permitted. Tripods and flash may require special permission. Q: Are guides available? A: Official guides are available at the site entrance. Q: What is the best time to visit? A: Early morning or late afternoon for good light and comfortable temperatures.

Quick facts

• Type: Destination
• State: Karnataka
• Category: Historical Places