Church Inside The Lake – Shettihalli
Church Inside the Lake, also known as the Shettihalli Rosary Church, emerges like a hauntingly beautiful memory — a poignant blend of nature’s reclaiming and architectural grace. This submerged church is not just an architectural relic; it’s a symbol of resilience, a photographer’s dream, and a soul-stirring destination for anyone drawn to ethereal beauty and historical mysteries.
Church Inside The Lake – Shettihalli
About the Church Inside the Lake — Shettihalli
Location: Shettihalli, near Hassan in the Karnataka state of India, approximately 200 km north-west of Bangalore. The church lies half‑submerged in the reservoir created by the Gorur Dam across the Hemavati River.
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Name: Shettihalli Rosary Church (popularly known as “Church Inside the Lake”)
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Village: Shettihalli
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Taluk: Hassan Taluk
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District: Hassan District
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State: Karnataka, India
Google Maps Link:
👉 Open in Google Maps https://www.google.com/maps/place//
Church Inside The Lake – Shettihalli
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Built in the 1860s by French missionaries, this Gothic-style church served as a place of worship for the local community for nearly a century.
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With the construction of the Hemavati Reservoir (Gorur Dam) in the 1950s, the area was flooded, and the church became submerged — partially and seasonally — giving it a dreamlike “sunken” effect.
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Today, it stands as a heritage landmark, drawing photographers, history enthusiasts, spiritual seekers, and curious travelers alike.
Best Attractions Of The Shettihalli Church
Here are the Top 4 Attractions at and around Shettihalli Rosary Church
1. Floating Church View (Monsoon Marvel)
Highlight: From July to October, the Shettihalli Church partially submerges under the Hemavathi River—creating a surreal floating illusion of its Gothic ruins.
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You can even take local coracle rides around the submerged arches.
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Perfect for drone shots, golden hour photography, or just soaking in eerie beauty.
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Best Time: Early morning or late evening during monsoon.
2. Gothic Ruins Exploration (Dry Season)
Highlight: During the dry months (December to May), the water recedes fully, exposing the hauntingly beautiful church ruins.
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Walk among towering pillars, broken stone altars, and walls stained by time.
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Offers a peaceful, meditative ambiance.
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Great for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and travel bloggers.
3. Scenic Riverside Picnic Spot
Highlight: The surrounding area is lush, rural, and tranquil, with scenic fields, riverside views, and sunset panoramas.
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Bring a picnic and relax by the Hemavathi backwaters.
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A great spot for a quiet weekend escape with friends, family, or solo.
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Carry your own snacks and water—facilities are minimal.
4. Nearby Attractions in Hassan District
If you’re planning a longer trip, consider visiting:
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🛕 Belur & Halebidu Temples – UNESCO-listed Hoysala architecture (about 50–55 km from Shettihalli).
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⛰️ Manjarabad Fort (Sakleshpur) – Star-shaped fort atop a hill (~50 km away).
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🚂 Railway Bridge Viewpoint (Sakleshpur) – Iconic railway bridge amidst the Western Ghats.
Historical Background
The Shettihalli Rosary Church was constructed in the 1860s by French missionaries as a place of worship for the British officers and their families who managed the coffee plantations and estates around the area.
This church is a beautiful example of French Gothic architecture, characterized by pointed arches, stained glass windows, and soaring columns.
Visiting Details: Timing, Cost, and Best Time to Visit
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Entry Fee: Visiting the Shettihalli Rosary Church is completely free. There is no entry fee, making it accessible to all travelers.
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Best Time to Visit:
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For the breathtaking floating church effect, visit during the monsoon months (July to October) when water levels rise and the church partially submerges.
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For exploring the ruins on dry land and photography, the summer months (December to May) are ideal.
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Timings: The site is generally accessible from early morning around 6 AM to 6 or 7 PM. Since this is an open area, you can visit any time during daylight hours.
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Facilities: There are limited amenities around the church, so it’s advisable to carry water, snacks, and other essentials.
Q1: Is there an entry fee to visit Shettihalli Church?
No, visiting is free of charge.
Q2: When is the best time to visit the church for the floating effect?
Visit during the monsoon months (July to October) for the submerged, floating church experience.
Q3: How do I reach Shettihalli Church from Bangalore?
The best way is by road via NH75 to Hassan and then to Shettihalli village by taxi or bus. The total distance is about 200 km and takes roughly 4-5 hours by car.
Q4: Are there facilities like food or restrooms at the site?
The site has limited amenities, so it’s best to carry your own food and water. Public restrooms are not available nearby.
Q5: Can I visit the church with kids or elderly family members?
Yes, the site is generally accessible, but caution is advised during the monsoon near water.
Useful Links
The Church Inside the Lake at Shettihalli is more than just a historical monument; it’s a living testimony to the intersection of nature, architecture, and history. Whether you come for the hauntingly beautiful monsoon views or the peaceful ruins in the dry season, this hidden gem in Karnataka offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Its Gothic spires rising from the water make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through South India.
Pack your camera, bring your curiosity, and set out to explore this surreal, submerged cathedral where history quietly whispers beneath the waves.
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