Halebidu

Halebidu is a town located in the Hassan district of Karnataka, India. Historically known as Dorasamudra or Dwarasamudra, it served as the capital of the Hoysala Empire for nearly 300 years in the 12th and 13th centuries. The town is renowned for its Hoysala architecture, particularly the intricately carved Hoysaleswara Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple, along with the Jain basadis, are major tourist attractions. The Hoysala capital was sacked and looted by the Delhi Sultanate armies in the 14th century, leading to the eventual decline of Halebidu and the shift of the capital to Belur. The name Halebidu, literally meaning "old city" or "ruined city," reflects its state following the invasions.