Deriving its name from the presiding deity the goddess Hasanamba which translates to ‘smiling mother’, Hassan district is located 187 km from Bangalore. Known as the temple-architecture capital of the state of Karnataka, the place saw its development as a major seat of the Hoysala Empire that ruled major parts of south India between the 10th and 14th centuries. Reflecting the Hoysala architecture of the 12th century, there are many popular places to visit in Hassan like the Hasanamba Temple and various Jain temples. With a well-connected transport system, Hassan is best known for its old-world atmosphere which offers a surfeit of tourist attractions.
The best time to visit Hassan is from June to February. Needless to say, Hassan is the go-to destination for pilgrims, history lovers, as well as curious souls.
# Gorur DamPopularly known as Hemavathi Dam, Gorur Dam is one of the best places to visit in Hassan. Built-in 1979, it is constructed across the Hemavathi river for drinking, irrigation, and household chore purposes. Additionally, you may also get a chance to sight various birds that visit the reservoir regularly. Covering an area of 2,810 square kilometres, the views from this dam are worth capturing, so make sure that you pack your camera. With a height of 58.5 metres and a length of 4,692 metres, the reservoir has a total of six large radial spillway gates. A striking picnic spot, Gorur Dam is a popular tourist place in Hassan and attracts tourists from all across the country.
# Shettihalli ChurchConstructed by French missionaries in the 1860s, the church is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture in India and is among the best places to visit in Hassan. Later, in the 1960s, the Shettihalli Rosary Church was submerged in water, which is why it’s also known as The Submerged Church or The Floating Church. To redirect the waters of the Hemavathi river, the Gorur reservoir was built. This resulted in a number of villages getting submerged in water, and so the villagers had to relocate, abandoning this church. Now, the church is a sought after picnic spot and part of Hassan’s tourism circuit. It attracts many tourists every year when it is submerged in water during the monsoon season. When Shettihalli Rosary Church is half underwater, tourists can get a closer view via a coracle ride.
# Hasanamba TempleA unique temple that is only open for two weeks during Diwali, Hasanamba Temple is dedicated to the goddess Shakti. Devotees present raw rice and light a lamp as an offering. It is believed that the lamp keeps burning and the rice never rots until the next time the temple’s doors open. The awe-inspiring architecture is a reflection of the Hoysala’s faith in Jainism. At this temple, there are also paintings that represent various mythological figures such as the painting of Ravana with nine heads playing the veena. Around 800 years old, this temple is one of the best places to visit in Hassan and should not be missed.
# Lakshmi Devi TempleBuilt during the reign of the Hoysala Dynasty in the 12th century, Lakshmi Devi is a beautiful temple dedicated to the goddess Lakshmi. This temple is constructed from soaprock in the Hoysala-style architecture. The majestic temple adorned with inscriptions, sculptures, and intricate designs take you back to the ancient era. A showstopper, the chatuskuta houses four shrines. If you are a history buff then you must include this in your itinerary as it among the best places to visit in Hassan.
# Maharaja ParkNow a beautiful picnic spot for locals as well as tourists, Maharaja Park is a popular well-manicured park covered with a green layer of well-maintained grass. Lined with tall trees and dollops of bushes, there are many spacious walkways. Additionally, there is also a children’s playground, making it one of the best places to visit in Hassan for families.
# Ishvara TempleThe grand Ishvara Temple, which is located in Arasikere in Hassan, is another architectural marvel from the Hoysala Dynasty. An 11th-century single shrine temple dedicated to Shiva, it is mainly known for its rich heritage and intricate architecture that attracts several travellers from all over the state. You can witness the unique craftsmanship and intricacies of carving at this temple that is not seen at any other Hoysala structure. As it among the most famous tourist attractions to visit in Hassan, it attracts numerous tourists, especially history buffs.