During the 12th and 13th centuries, Halebid was the regal capital of the Hoysala Dynasty. Literally meaning 'the ruined city', Hoysala was also known by other aliases such as Dwarasamudra, which is derived from the vast tank known as Dwarasamudra. This magnificent temple town has to bear the brunt of raids by marauding invaders, who robbed it of its treasures, leaving behind the ruins of the once-magnificent Shiva temple. In the face of persistent attacks, the Hoysalas then relocated their capital to Belur and this royal capital gradually reduced to a state of dilapidation and ruins.

The Hoysaleshwara and Kedareshwara temples in Halebidu are supreme examples of Hoysala temple architecture. These temples are manifestations of the Vesara style…

During the 12th and 13th centuries, Halebid was the regal capital of the Hoysala Dynasty. Literally meaning 'the ruined city', Hoysala was also known by other aliases such as Dwarasamudra, which is derived from the vast tank known as Dwarasamudra. This magnificent temple town has to bear the brunt of raids by marauding invaders, who robbed it of its treasures, leaving behind the ruins of the once-magnificent Shiva temple. In the face of persistent attacks, the Hoysalas then relocated their capital to Belur and this royal capital gradually reduced to a state of dilapidation and ruins.

The Hoysaleshwara and Kedareshwara temples in Halebidu are supreme examples of Hoysala temple architecture. These temples are manifestations of the Vesara style of temple architecture characterized by star-shaped structures set upon raised platforms.