- Halebidu (formerly Dorasamudra), the capital of the Hoysala Empire, is home to the magnificent Hoysaleswara Temple. - Belur (formerly Velapura), an earlier capital, houses the famous Chennakeshava Temple, one of the finest examples of Hoysala art and architecture. - These two sites, along with Somanathapura (Chennakeshava Temple), represent the pinnacle of Hoysala temple building. - Hampi is famous for Vijayanagara ruins. Mysore and Bangalore are prominent cities but not primary sites for major historical Hoysala monuments. Sringeri is known for its Advaita Vedanta matha, and Dharwad has various historical sites but not major Hoysala temples comparable to Halebid/ Belur.