Hassan is a city of Karnataka, 194 Kms from the state capital Bangalore. The city spreads over an area of 26.67 Sq Km, is situated at an altitude of 957 metre above sea level. Hassan is very close to Belur, Halebid and Shravanbelagola, so the town is ideal base to visit there historical places. The Hoysalas ruled over the region of Hassan from 11th to 13th century AD. The capital of the Hoysala dynasty was Dwarasamundra (Dwaravati-pura), the remnants of which are still scattered around Halebid. The magnificent temples of Belur and Halebid were constructed during their rule. The town was also influenced by Jainism, and became a famous centre of Jain literature. Hassan is home to the Master Control Facility of India's Space Research Organization (ISRO) and also the Malnad College of Engineering. This quiet and peaceful town is famous forits stone quarries with granite stones. The pleasant climate of the town attracts a large number of tourists through out the year.
Excursions :
Gorur - Situated at a distance of 22 Kms from Hassan, Gorur is a dam site across the Hemavathy river. The dam is a beautiful picnic spot.
Belur - Situated 40 Kms from Hassan, Belur, the first capital of Hoysalas is situated on the banks of river Yagachi. The famous Chhanekeshava Temple stands here, which is one of the three major Hoysala sites still in use. The Hoysalas started the construction of the temple in 1116 to commemorate their victory over the Cholas. The temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, is built on a star-shaped platform, surrounded by a line of 650 elephants. One can see the fines culpture of the temple and also visit some of the nearby smaller temples.
Halebid - Located 39 Kms from Hassan, Halebid is the ancient capital of the Hoysala dynasty. It was founded in the early 11th century as Dvarasamudra. The town was later renamed as Halebidu or Halebid.The armies of the Delhi Sultanata destroyed the capital in 1311 and 1327.The famous Hoysaleswara temple of 1121 A.D however survived the destruction.The temple is situated amidst well maintained gardens, and it has twoshrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. An statue of Nandi bull faces the each shrine, while other big statues of Hindu deities displaying excellent craftsmanship.
The Archaeological Museum - The museum is located on the temple primes of Halebid. It houses 12th and 13th century sculptures, wood carvings,idols, coins and inscriptions. The museum opens from 10.00 am to 5.00 pmdaily, closed on Fridays.
Chikmagloor - The hilly town is located at a distance of around 60 Kms from Hassan. Chikmagloor is set amidst mountains,beautiful dales, calm rivers and ruffling streams. The town is situated insouth-western part of Karnataka, in the Western Ghat ranges. The town is a major centre of education and trade and commerce. Chikmagloor houses some important monuments belonging to all religions. The Kodandarama Temple, the Jama Masjid, and the St. Joseph's Cathedral are some of the interesting monuments. Hiremagloor (part of Chikamagloor town) has an Ishwara Temple with a 1.22 metre high statue of Jademuni.
Shravanbelagola - Located 52 Kms away from Hassan, Shravanbelagola or the monk of the white pond is the most important pilgrimage centre of Jains in the country. The town has the world's tallest monolithic statue, the Gommateshwara statue. The 17 metre high statue depicting the saintly prince Bahubali was erected around 980 and 983 A.D.The nude statue presents the typical Buddhist and Jain art. One has to climba flight of around 700 steps to the reach the site of the statue. The temple offers the panoramic views of the surrounding areas. There a spacious sanctuary in Bhandari Basti about 200 metre left to Gommateshwara statue.
Accessibility :
Hassan has not its own airport, but it is connected with the road and rail links.
By Air - The nearest airport are Bangalore (194Kms) and Mangalore (168 Kms). From there one has to take road or rail journey.
By Train - Hassan Railway Station is connected with Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Shimoga and Arsikere.
By Road - KSTDC and many private tour operators run buses for nearby places like Bangalore (194 Kms), Mangalore (168 Kms),Belur (40 Kms), Halebid (39 Kms) and Shravanbelagola (52 Kms).
Accommodation :
The hotels at Hassan offers varied choices to tourists. Some of the famous hotels of the town are Hotel Hassan Ashok (3 Star), Southern Star Hassan (2 Star) and Hotel Suvarna Regency/ Resort etc.
Best Time to Visit :
The town enjoys a moderate climate.The temperatures vary between 25°Cand 35°C in summers, while in winters it remain between 14°C and 28°C. The average annual rainfall in the district is around 700 mm. One can visit the town any time of the year, but the best season is September toApril. It is advisable to avoid the rainy seasons
Heritage
Culture 
