Sadly, we had to leave the comfort and wonder of Nagarhole but two more temples awaited us on the drive to Hassan.

Halebidu is a 12th century Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva. The Hoysala empire site was active until the 1300’s when it was sneaked by northern Indian Mughal armies.

Sri Chennakeshava Temple in Belur is another example of a Hindu temple from the Hoysala empire period. The temple took over 100 years to build and features a dramatic yellow gopuram, the tall tower featured in southern Indian temples.

Panorama of Hoysaleswara Temple in Halibidu

Walking around the Halebidu Temple

Halebidu Temple exterior

Nandi at Hoysaleswara Temple

Receiving a blessing from the god. Nandi in Halibidu

Inside Halebidu Temple

Inside Halebidu Temple

Trying to figure out the settings on the new camera in Halebidu

Halebidu Temple pillars

Inside Halebidu Temple

Pillars in Hoysaleswara Temple, Halibdu, India

Hanging out in Halebidu Temple

Stone carvings on Halebidu TEmple

Stone carving.

Stone carving damaged by Muslim invaders in 14th century.

Stone carving on temple wall.

Stone carving on temple wall.

Jain prophet.

Totos kneeling before naked prophet.

Gopuram of Chennakesava Temple in Belur, India

Sites at Chennakesava Temple

Stone carving under roof edge. Love the dancer checking herself in the mirror.

Nagar idol in Belur Temple.

The Steps – always a great place for conversation anywhere in the world.

Detail of internal temple pillar.

Standing before god.

Nagar idol.

Making friends everywhere he goes.

Hanging out in the courtyard

Footprints on Lord Rama.

Photo-op.

Kids in India were very friendly. They always wanted selfies with group members or to have their picture taken.

Gopuram at Chennakesava Temple after dusk.

Sunset, Chennakesava Temple in Belur, India.

Working at the temple gate.

Sunset over Chennakesava Temple in Belur India,