The next day, I took a local bus to Belur. The 40 minute bus
ride only cost around 40 cents. It is a cheap alternative to a
rollercoaster. It bounces a lot and sometimes you even jump
from your seat.
In Belur I went to the famous ancient temple Chennakesava.
Completed in 1116 AD it took over 100 years to build it.
You can see how much work was put into the detailed figures.
From Belur I again took a local bus to Halebeedu. As usual,
the bus was shaking and sounding as if it were to fall apart
every minute. You have to have faith that it makes the trip.
Perhaps that is why so many Indian are so religious.
In Halebeedu there were some more ancient temples. The most
famous Hoysalesvara temple had a few visiting tourists. I went to
two more equally pretty temples after that. I was surprised to
find them completely empty. For the first time in these 7 days
in India, I found a silent spot.
Before leaving Halebeedu, I gave an info brochure, that I had bought earlier, to a local who was selling souvenirs. Even though I didn't ask for anythin in return, he came running after me to give me a pack of postcards. That is just one little story to show how nice people are here.
My plan was to then return back "home" to Bengaluru to relax. Fortunately, I still have too much energy. I changed that plan and went to Shimoga instead. Prajwal, who had brought me back down from Mullayyanagiri, invited me to visit him there.
