Belur, situated at a distance of about 220 kms from Bangalore is also known as Banaras of South or Dakshina Varanasi. It is located on the banks of river Yagachi. It is a good destination for students of Art colleges as it is an architectural delight and one can spend days drinking in its beauty. Belur is a showcase of the sculptor's excellence in its many famous temples. The most famous temple is Channakeshava Temple which was built by the Hoyasala king Vishnuvardhana when he converted from Jainism to Vaishnavism.

Halebid (also known as Halebidu or Halebeedu) is located at a distance of 149 kms from Mysore (16 kms from Belur) in Hassan district. Halebid is a good destination for the people who want to study on the ancient sculpture. It was the capital of Hoyasala Empire during 12th and 13th century is famous for its Temples and sculpture. The sculptural work of the temples is based on Shastra's. The best time to visit this place is between November to April.