The town is located on the banks of river Yagachi, approximately 38 kilometresfrom Hassan and it is a very well-known tourist destination in the state. Belur was the former capital of the Hoysalas and referred to as Velapur, Velur and Belahur. Belur is famous for the Chennakeshava Temple, considered one of the best examples of Hoysala workmanship. The holy place was built by the Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana who built it to show his achievements in 1116 AD after his victory against the Cholas.