Hassan District is located in the south-western part of Karnataka, situated at an altitude of approximately 3200 feet above sea lev- el. The district has had an eventful and rich history. In the past, it reached the height of its glory during the rule of the Hoysala’s who had their capital at Dwarasamudra, the modern Halebedu in Belur Taluk. The district, noted for its enchanting natural sce- nic beauty is also a veritable treasure-house of Hoysala architec- ture and sculpture, the best specimens of which are at Belur and Halebedu