Badami

Vatapi as it was earlier called, Badami is a sleepy town in Karnataka famous all ovdr world for its temples. The city was founded by Pulkeshin - I in AD 543 and was capital of South Indian Kingdom of the great Chalukya dynasty.
The beautification of the city was done between A.D 567 - 598 when Kirtivarman – I gifted the local people with some wonderful temples and buildings with Dravidian architecture.
The old city of Badami is located near a beautiful red sandstone ridge surrounded by Agastya Lake in Northern region of Karnataka state in South India.

The famous rock-cut temples interconnected with each other which can also be called as caves temples were constructed in Badami, Aihole and Pattadakal under the Chalukya Emperors and are of great significance for tourists for tourists who are interested in temples, art and architecture. Blessed with a blend of south and north India, the place is a famous pilgrimage center of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism.

The place has its own charm offering various festivals celebrations throughout the year.

Places to see

Badami Caves Temples

These temples are the main attractions of Badami. Situated just opposite to the Badami Fort, there are 3 Brahmanical and one Jain cave, dedicated to Nagamma, Siva, Vishnu and one of the Tirthankar of Jains.

Badami Fort Producing a beautiful view of Badami city, the fort is perched on a hill has some marvelous sites to offer for tourists. Inside the fort, one can visit a big granary, huge underground chamber used as treasury or private audience hall. Doubly fortified walls may have served and provided the safest option for Chalukyas to make it their capital.

 

Naganath Temple

Located in the outskirts of Badami amidst the green forests, constructed by Chalukyas the ancient architectural splendor of Naganath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is always worth to stop there.

 

Aihole

Also a part of Chalukya reign and situated on the banks of Malaprabha River, Aihole is at a distance of 46 kms from Badami. A big trading center in medieval time, it was among the richest place under Chalukyas and imprinting hindu religion.A historic lover will be fascinated by the plethora of beautiful medieval temple complex.
There are 125 temples in Aihole and are divided into 22 different groups. Seemed to be trembling with motion, the sculpture of beautiful dancing Shiva is a major attraction of Aihole. Another must visit place is an image of Mother Goddess Durga, killing demon Mahishasura.

Durg Temple is one of the most decorated temple in Aihole.

 

Serene Lake

A scenic lake and also used for medicinal purpose to cure skin diseases, Serene lake has its own charm flowing near the temple complex. As per history goes, King Kushataraya was cured of leprosy here.

Archaeological Museum

Badami houses a unique Archaeological Museum famous for its ancient specimens. One will be thrilled to watch a gigantic Shiva's bull, "Nandi" at the entrance of the museum.

Banashankari

Depicting image of goddess Banashankari, a configuration of goddess Parvati, Banashankari is located 5 kms from the city center. The place is worshipped by the weaver community and a fair is held every year in the temple premises. Thousands of devotees throng to the fair and the town reflects a great enthusiasm, devotion and liveliness to indulge in the festivities. Inside the temple, one will have a chance to see an eight-armed goddess sculpture sitting on a lion.

Mahakuta

It takes approximately 30 minutes to reach from Aihole, Mahakuta town located in the foothill. An important religious place for Shaiva sect, Mahakuteshwara Temple is dedicated to the Lord Shiva. The temple is full of Dravidian architecture full of wonderful carvings. One can also see Vishnu Pushkarni which is a natural spring pond.