hassan moto trip

• History & Architecture / India

Hassan – An offbeat weekend getaway from Bangalore

by Ava and Sush · Published April 12, 2020 · Updated March 22, 2023

A historical district just 185 kilometers from Bangalore, Hassan has been on our list ever since we passed through it on our trip to Chikkamangaluru. The windmill dotted mountains, the architecturally elaborate temples and the sprawling farmlands were just too enticing to resist. So on a cool January weekend when we had a hankering to visit something offbeat, we decided to take a trip to Hassan. Though people mostly use Hassan for day trips or as a gateway to other popular destinations like Sakaleshpur or Chikkamagaluru, we decided to stay there overnight and explore the place leisurely.

Reaching Hassan

There are regular trains and buses that ply from Bangalore to Hassan. Once you reach Hassan, hire a local taxi to visit places of interest. But hiring a car for the whole trip is the best option if you love road trips like us.The road condition to Hassan is excellent and it took us around 3.5 hours to reach Hassan from Bangalore.

Best time to Visit Hassan

• Nov – Feb (Winter months): This is when the mornings and evenings are pleasant and heat is tolerable making it perfect time to visit.
• Jun – Sept : If you do not mind the rains, this is also a good time to visit Hassan when freshly bathed greenery provides a perfect contrast to the cloudy sky.

Accommodation

There are a lot of options when it comes to accommodation in main Hassan town, especially budget and mid range options. 

Palguni Residency – We stayed here and absolutely recommend it if you are looking for budget options. With spacious and neat rooms, proximity to the shops and restaurants, friendly staff and an in-house restaurant serving some delicious vegetarian food – this is a perfect place to stay in Hassan.

Budget for the Trip to Hassan from Bangalore

Must do in hassan, visit the windmill temple.

This one is a hidden gem that no one would tell you about. Neither will you find it anywhere in the list of places to visit in Hassan. But that is what makes this place so special and a must visit in Hassan if you are looking for an offbeat experience. The name of the temple is Mavanuru Malleswara temple though we fondly call it as the Windmill temple. The location of the temple is very picturesque being atop a hill and surrounded by mountains, lush greenery and lots of windmills. If you don’t mind getting up a bit early, then we definitely recommend a sunrise trip to this place when it feels the most peaceful.

Check out the famous Floating Church at Shettihalli

The major highlight of our trip was visiting Shettihalli Rosary Church, the famed “floating church” of India. Just 25 kilometers away from the main Hassan town, this 19th century church stands like a sentinel beside the backwaters of Hemavathi reservoir. Mostly in ruins, this abandoned church has a haunted feel to it which makes it even more intriguing. Come monsoon and the church gets submerged in the reservoir with only one third of it visible and that is what makes this place so unique and desirable to travel enthusiasts. So if you visit during July-October time, you can take a coracle ride to have a tour of the church.

The scenic location of the church attracts many photographers and couples for photo shoots. Otherwise, it is not a place frequented by too many people and is a real serene place to spend some time. We recommend going there late in the afternoon and staying back till sunset when the glowing ball of orange sets the backwater on fire thus turning the whole place magical. And what do I say about the after sunset scene? The soothing sound of water gently lapping against the shore, the chirping sound of birds flying back home and the many-hued sky reflecting in the water was a sight soothing to the soul.

Bikes and cars can go directly till the church though the last part is a mud track and a little bumpy. The best way to reach the church is by your own vehicle as it will allow you to spend as much time as you want in the area. The route to the church is well-marked on Google maps. No shops or toilets are available in the area. Try to leave the place before it gets too dark as the place gets deserted.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ava & Sush || Travel and Us (@theroamingshoes) on Feb 4, 2020 at 6:27am PST

Be awe-inspired by the iconic temples of Belur and Halebeedu

Exquisite and Timeless – This is how I like to describe the temples of Belur and Halebeedu. These two temple towns are simply unmissable if you visit Hassan. Built in the 12th century, the temples of Belur and Halebeedu are architectural wonders that have stood strong against time. 

We had already visited Channakeshava temple of Belur while visiting Chikkamagaluru and were really impressed by the intricate carvings and unique architecture. So this time we decided to visit the temples of Halebeedu. Halebeedu is approximately 40-45 minutes drive from the main Hassan town and boasts of 2 beautiful temples namely Hoyasaleshwara Temple and Kedareshwara Temple. We visited only Hoyasaleshwara temple and gave the other one a miss due to lack of time. But you can always cover both the temples if you have enough time in hand. Just keep at least an hour for each temple to be enthralled by the elaborate carvings, the ornate pillars and the spectacular architecture. 

Take up a small trek to see the World’s largest monolith at Shravanbelagola

Around 50 kilometres away from the main Hassan town, Shravanbelagola is well-known for it’s huge Bahubali or Lord Gommateswara statue. The 58 feet statue is built on top of the Vindhyagiri hill. To reach the statue, you need to trudge up the 600 plus steps carved out of the hill. Though the climb is arduous, the views are totally rewarding. You can see the Chandragiri hill, an emerald green pond and the colourful houses of the town during the climb. If you visit during the evening, then you can also enjoy the sunset views from the top of the hill.

The temple remains open from 6 am to 12 pm and then from 3:30 – 6:30 pm. We recommend visiting either early morning or towards the evening to escape the heat.  Footwear is not allowed on the steps to the temple. So you need to leave it in the shop below the hill. Take a pair of good socks for a comfortable climb. Hat, sunglass and a bottle of drinking water are must if you are climbing the hills

Our trip to Hassan was remarkable in every possible way. Starting from the extravagantly colourful sunset that looked almost unreal to driving through an isolated slender path under a sky full of stars, watching sunrise amidst the windmills overlooking a sleepy town to drinking numerous luscious Chikoo (Mudapple) shakes – Hassan was much more than what we had expected. Hope this blog helps you with everything you need to plan a trip to Hassan. In case you have any more questions, do leave us a comment and we will get back to you.

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Tags: Bangalore day trip bangalore weekend getaway floating church of India Hassan karnataka Mavanuru Malleswara temple road trip to hassan Shettihalli Church South Indian Getaway Trip to Hassan weekend destinations from bangalore Windmill temple hassan

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Motorcycle Tour in Morocco

Morocco - mountains, deserts and oases - sahara desert, high atlas, dades valley, marrakech, fez and ait benhaddou.

• Unique motorcycle tour in Morocco along the fascinating mountain and panoramic roads in the Middle and High Atlas Mountains
• The endless expanses of the Sahara Desert and the sand dunes of the Erg Chebbi are yours for the taking  
• Immerse yourself in the colourful hustle and bustle and the oriental scents of the vibrant imperial cities of Fez , Marrakech and Rabat .
• On this motorbike tour you will ride through the canyons of the Todra and Dades rivers in the south of the High Atlas Mountains
• Cross the mighty Tizi n'Test Pass and let the magnificent Toubkal , the highest mountain in North Africa, take your breath away
• Visit the ancient caravan settlement in Ait Benhaddou , now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , against the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains, often covered in snow
• And be amazed by the scenic diversity and beauty of Morocco as you cross the country from north to south

#SmileOnYourFace

Gracefully beautiful, charming in appearance and captivating for the senses. On this motorbike tour, hidden gems, gastronomic delights and cultural insights into Morocco's way of life await you. Whether on the back of a camel, under twinkling starry skies or at the campfire in our desert camp - the oriental magic of Morocco unfolds everywhere.

Your Hispania Tours Bonus

This fourteen-day motorbike adventure takes you off the beaten track to the most beautiful places in the country. More than half of the trip covers the Atlas Mountains and its south, precisely where the country has remained truly authentic. This gives you plenty of time to discover and enjoy the authentic Morocco, in addition to all the other highlights of the tour.

Day 8 - Kasbah Trail and Ait Benhaddou

The red stone formations of the Dades Gorge stick out of the ground like long fingers. You drive 60 km deep into the valley, where the Berbers also cultivate every piece of land on the edge of the Dades River. While having your morning coffee at the narrowest point of the gorge, you can enjoy the impressive view of the Dades breakthrough. 

We continue westwards along the road of the Kasbahs. Ancient clay castles beside the road bear witness to the caravan past of the south side of the Atlas. Today, the film industry takes advantage of the oriental flair and the clear light of the area. Near Ouarzazate, many abandoned sets still stand in the vicinity of the film studios. Half an hour north of here, on the old caravan route between Timbuktu and Marrakech, is the village of Ait Benhaddou, whose entire centre has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. Here you will stay in a Kasbah on the banks of the Ounila River.

• Destination: Ait Benhaddou
• Distance / duration: 270 km / 5 h
• Accommodation: Typical riad in Ait Benhaddou
• Highlights: Dades Gorge, Kasbah Trail, World Heritage Site Ait Benhaddou

Day 9 - The Saffron Mountains of Taliouine, Souss Valley and Taroudant

Although Marrakech is already within reach, you stay a few more days here in the mild south. The Souss Valley separates the two mountain ranges of the Antiatlas and the High Atlas. You can almost feel the Atlantic breeze. One of the longest and most water-rich rivers in the country accompanies you through fertile orchards to your destination in Taroudannt. The city is often referred to as Marrakech's little sister, because in addition to the rammed-earth city wall, the medina, built of mud at the beginning of the 18th century, is very similar.

• Destination: Taroudant
• Distance / duration: 500 km / 7.5 h
• Accommodation: 4* Hotel in Taroudant
• Highlights: Souss Valley, Berber village of Tazenakht, Antiatlas

Day 10 - Roundtrip in the Anti-Atlas

The very dry Antiatlas differs greatly from the other two Atlas ranges in Morocco, the transition to the stone desert is almost fluid. Even in earlier times, agriculture was only possible here with great difficulty and with very low yields, and so the inhabitants lived as semi-nomads; in many places, the terraced fields and threshing places left behind are still recognisable. The road leads you through almost deserted, but extremely impressive landscapes, which are only rarely interrupted by more fertile valleys.. 

• Destination: Antialtas
• Distance / duration: 220 km / 4h
• Highlights: Berber villages of the Antiatlas, Tizourgane Kasbah (fortified village)

Day 11 - The Tizi n'Test mountain pass and the royal city of Marrakech

Marrakesh is a daily´s ride away from Taroudant. The crossing of the High Atlas on this day is to be included to the most beautiful experiences in a bikers life! The single lane brings you on a very winding route through scenic and touristy little developed areas. You arrive at Tinmal mosque, the origin of the Almohad empire in the 12 century as you lay your eyes on the summit of Mount Toubkal, the highest mountain in North Africa with 4,167 metres. Your Atlas experience is crowned by sheer riding pleasure along the entire 230 kilometers long journey, which ends at Marrakesh, the Pearl of the South.

• Destination: Marrakech
• Distance / duration: 235 km / 4,5 h
• Accommodation: 4* hotel in Marrakech
• Highlights: Tizi n'Test mountain pass, Tinmal mosque visit, 1001 nights in Marrakech.

Day 12 - Rest day in Marrakech

Due to the large number of architecturally significant buildings, including the Koutoubia Mosque dating from 1162, the 12th-century Kasbah and the 14th-century Ben-Jusuf Medersa, the old town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, along with the Agdal Gardens and the Menara Gardens. The city's main attraction is the Djemaa el Fna (literally: Square of the Beheaded), the world-famous medieval market and executioner's square, today a lively place of oriental storytellers, snake charmers and jugglers. In the new town is the Jardin Majorelle, which impresses with its variety of plants and peculiar architecture. It's a good idea to take a break in one of the countless cafés in the medina and take in the colourful hustle and bustle. Don't miss the call to prayer of the muezine at sunset on the Djemaa el Fna square.

• Highlights: Visit to the medina, Koutoubia Mosque, souks of the old town, sunset with muezinges singing at the main square Djemmaa el Fna, Majorelle Gardens, Ben Yusuf Medresa.

Day 13 - On curvy roads to Rabat

Today's stage takes you north to the long Atlantic coastline, where the cities of Casablanca and Rabat are located. On the winding roads of Morocco's fertile northern hills you enjoy sheer riding pleasure and your motorcycle to the fullest. Along the coastal road you reach Rabat, the capital of Morocco, and visit its icon, the Hassan Tower, the unfinished minaret of the Great Mosque.

• Destination: Rabat
• Distance / duration: 360 km / 6.5 h
• Accommodation: 5* Hotel in Rabat 
• Highlights: Visit mausoleum of the royal family and Hassan Tower

Day 14 - Along the coastal road to Málaga

From Rabat you head to Tangier, where the ferry to Europe is waiting and your Moroccan adventure gradually comes to an end. After arrival at the tour hotel, the motorbikes are returned and you say goodbye to the other tour participants during dinner.

• Distance / duration: 410 km / 7 h
• Accommodation: Tour hotel in Málaga
• Highlights: Ferry crossing to Europe, farewell dinner

Day 15 - Departure

The luggage is packed and according to your flight time, our transfer service is ready to take you to the airport. We say goodbye and hope to see you again soon on one of our future motorbike adventures. 

Please note: We reserve the right to make small changes to the tour schedule.

We are also happy to organize this tour as a private tour! Your group, your private tour date. request a private tour

Included services

Accommodation.

• Carefully selected accommodations that truly capture the character of the region and guarantee a relaxing break after your days of riding - including only first-class 4* and 5* star hotels and genuine boutique hotels.
• Your luggage will be transported by our tour bus
• The tour price includes daily breakfast and most of the dinners during the tour; we dine a varying number of times in the hotel or in local restaurants. 
• We understand how important a healthy water balance is for the motorcyclist, therefore we provide you with sufficient drinking water on tour.

As described in the tour itinerary. Entrance fees are included.

Service and support

• Tour guidance by experienced tour guide with extensive local know-how
• First-class motorbike  when booked online(our rental fleet, additional equipment and clothing can be added during the booking)
• Tour bus with back-up motorbike and second tour guide (route escort, if necessary lift)
• Daily tour briefing
• Route book + maps + gift package
• Airport transfer for tours from Málaga 

Not included

• Flight, drinks, snacks, tips for tour guides, tips for porters, tips for hotel service, travel protection insurance
• Gasoline and tolls
• Everything not specifically stated in the included service

Accomodation on tour

Relax in style

Morocco - The Imperial Cities

The imperial cities.

Fascinating motorcycle tour in Morocco to the imperial cities of Fez, Marrakech and Rabat, to the Middle Atlas mountains and to the Atlantic coast. Discover the magnificent scenery of Morocco, its colorful souks and medieval markets.

Spain and Morocco - Moorish Pearls

The moorish pearls.

On this motorcycle tour in Andalusia and Morocco you ride through the former empire of the Moors and discover their gems in Seville, Cordoba, Granada as well as in Fez, Marrakech and Rabat.

Airport Transfer

Bei deiner Reise mit Hispania Tours ab Málaga ist der Flughafen Transfer zu den folgende Uhrzeiten inkludiert: Vom Flughafen Málaga AGP zum Tourhotel: Am Anreisetag der Tour, nur zwischen 9:00-18:00 Uhr Vom Tourhotel zum Flughafen Málaga AGP: Am Tag des Tourendes, nur zwischen 9:00-18:00 Uhr

Transfer al aeropuerto

Al viajar con Hispania Tours desde Málaga, el traslado al aeropuerto está incluido en los siguientes horarios: Desde el aeropuerto de Málaga AGP hasta el hotel del tour: El día de llegada del viaje, sólo entre las 9:00 y las 18:00 horas Desde el hotel del tour hasta el aeropuerto de Málaga AGP: El día que finaliza el tour, sólo entre las 9:00 y las 18:00

When you travel with Hispania Tours from Málaga, the airport transfer is included at the following times: From Málaga Airport AGP to the tour hotel: On the day of arrival of the tour, only between 9:00-18:00 From the tour hotel to Málaga Airport AGP: On the day of the end of the tour, only between 9:00-18:00

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