Halebid is a temple city. The major tourist attractions here include several temples. It would always be a better idea to hire an authorized tourist guide to get to know about the history and beauty of these temples.
Hoysaleswara Temple
The Hoyasaleswara Temple is dedicated to lord Shiva and is the gem of all temples in the Halebid City. The temple is surely an archeological wonder and the intricate carvings and the art work on the temple walls give you an idea of how artistic, imaginative and talented were the sculptors of this temple. The temple is built up of a special type of stone called the soft stone or the Chloritic Schist. The stone is so soft that it allows even the minutest of the designs and carving. Main attraction of the Hoyasaleswara Temple is the monolithic statues of the Nandi Bull. You can also visit the archaeological museum in the temple complex.
Kedareswara Temple
The Kedaraswera Temple also dates back to the Hoysala era. It is also made of the soap stone and has fine carvings depicting scenes from Ramayana and Mahabharata on the walls. Main attraction of this temple is the idol of Nandi Vahana in its lying posture.
Basadi Halli
Another interesting place to visit in Halebid City is the Basadi Halli village which is located near to the Hoyasaleswara Temple. The place is a pilgrim site for the Jain community. There are three Jain temples including Parswanathaswamy Temple, Adinathaswamy Temple and the Shanthinathaswamy Temple. All the temples are famous for their pillars which are polished in such a way that they almost resemble mirrors. The most famous amongst these temples is the Parswanathaswamy Temple popular for its 14 ft. tall idol of black stone and a seven headed serpent imprinted on its head which signifies the seven stages of self growth and perfection.
Other attractions of this historically rich city include The Archaeological Museum and Shantaleshwara Temple. Halebid truly signifies royalty and glory.
