Hassan, in southern Indian state of Karnataka, is fondly called as the "Poor Man's Ooty" for its all-round beauty of scenic locales. An 11th century old and bereft of major tourist attractions, Hassan is known more to being the "Gateway of Pilgrimages" to well-known places like  Belur, Halebid and Shravanabelagola. Beautifully carved ancient temples are the only attraction here for tourists of religious bent of mind.

At 50 kms off Hassan is Shravanabelagola- "Land of Pond" - a renowned Jain pilgrimage centre. Sandwiched between two lofty hills of Chandragiri and Indragiri, and having a popular pond, it attracts tourists for possessing world's talent monolithic statue - the statue of Bahubali. What's more, it derives its popularity from a Jain festival - Mahamastakabhisheka - which takes places after every 12 years.

At 38 kms off Hassan is Belur, which is known for its myriad and splendid 20th century temples. The Chennakasheva temple - the most important of the lot - the Veeranarayana Temple and Kappe Chennigaraya temples invite tourists for their architectural beauty. Halebid is another popular tourist destination close to Hassan, which charms for its rock-carved temples of ancient times.