Shettihalli Church | The Gothic Half-Submerged Church
Located 2 km from Shettihalli, Karnataka, the Shettihalli church is one of the ancient wonders of India, the French missionaries from the 1860s.
It is the most exemplary structure of Gothic architecture. However, after the Hemavati Dam & Reservoir was constructed in 1960, the Shettihali Rosary church was abandoned due to the reservoir’s consistent flooding.
Since then, people have come from across states and different countries to see this magnificent semi-submerged church, especially during the monsoons.
Shettihalli Church History
French missionaries built the church in 1860. This gothic-designed church was constructed on the picturesque banks of the Hemavati River in Hassan and served the wealthy Britishers as a religious worship center. The Gothic-style-inspired structure does give haunted church vibes.
Soon after, the government decided to build the Hemavathi River and Gorur dam so the flowing river could become helpful in a better way.
The 1960 dam construction led to massive flooding of the Hemavati reservoir, flooding the church. Since then, the church has half submerged in water every monsoon leaving only the top portion visible, making it a rare sight.
Facts about Shettihalli Church
- It is pretty evident now that I have stated that the church is half-submerged in the water, but once the water subsides, it can be seen as a whole in its full magnificence.
- The vicinity around the church is a significant movie shooting spot for shooting regional movies & serials.
- Even after the consistent flooding of the reservoir over the past 25 years, the church stands tall.
- Those who are photography lovers would love this place. When the dark sky reflects on the church through the Hemavati River in the background of the church, it creates the most amazing panoramic view.
- For bird lovers and nature enthusiasts, this place would steal your eyes with its breathtaking surroundings.
How to Reach Shettihalli Church Hassan
By road: The church‘s distance from Bangalore is 200km, and you can always choose to access it through the streets. Buses are also available, dropping you at the Shettihalli rosary church.
By train: Trains are available daily from Yashwantpur railway station to Hassan, Karnataka. Hassan to church distance is approximately 40 km.
Shettihalli Church Best Time to Visit
There’s no specific time to visit the magnificent Shettihalli rosary church. However, the church has a different charm when watched as half-drowned in the water during monsoons.
5 famous places near Shettihalli Church
- Belur and Halebid are some of the historical sites to visit in Karnataka.
- Shravanabelagola: the town is famous for its gigantic statue of Gommateshvara Bahubali. The most significant pilgrimage destination was considered for the Jain followers.
- Manjarabad Fort: From Shettihalli Church Distance to Manjarabad Fort is 45 KM.
The vast majority use Hassan as their break-point for visiting the beautiful temples at Belur and Halebid. I suggest you stay a little longer at Hassan to visit the church.
Shettihalli Church Address
Here you can check the distance from your place Shettihalli Church; click here
5 Best Hotels To Book Near Shettihalli Church
Best Product you can carry for Shettihalli Church
- Backpack
- Running Shoes
- Comport Clothes
- Hat & Scaff
- Sunscreen
- Water bottle
- Camera
- Flashlight
- Power Bank
- Money Pouch
FAQs
Church in Karnataka, India, is an old church built in the 19th century now in ruins. Even though it has been deserted for a long time, it remains a popular tourist spot with great reviews due to its distinctive architecture and peaceful surroundings. However, visitors caution that it can be difficult to access, and there isn’t much to see inside.
the distance is 20 km
The times of the church are from 6 am to 7 pm.
The construction of the Hemavati Dam and Reservoir in 1960 caused the church to be abandoned. Now, every year when it rains, the church gets submerged in water. Many tourists are attracted to the ruin to witness this amazing sight.
The French missionaries constructed the Church in 1860 specifically for wealthy British estate owners.
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Nice post with all the required details and good photos. Awesome place. Been there recently. Spent a good part of my evening at this place