The famous Hoysala temple circuit is a short detour when driving from Bangalore to Chikmagalur. Apart from Halebidu and Belur, there are a number of others that are sprinkled within a radius of 10 km from here. The key hook for this circuit is the pair of Belur and Halebidu, constructed during the 11th-13th century Hoysala regime. Though 92 temples were constructed during the period, only 3 of them were exquisitely carved and remain the most popular till this date―Somanathapura, Belur and Halebidu. Though this sector is more famed, there is a hidden gem closer to Chikmagalur. A pleasant break from the fatigued circuit of tourists, the Belavadi Temple is for those who like some tranquillity. Part of the Hoysala lineage, Belavadi falls only 29 km from the city. Almost 100 soap stone pillars greet you in the main hall, at the end of which lie three sanctums, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The idols of Narayana, Venugopala and Yoganarsimha, are the main highlights of this temple. It’s best to visit all the temples between dawn to dusk and ensure you have a guide to explain the different nuances of architecture. The guides come armed with anecdotes, torches or mirrors to point out the features high on the walls of the temples.