BADAMI

A popular town in Karnataka majorly known for its cave temples, Badami is the ancient capital of the early Chalukya Kingdom, and is well known for its rich history and ancient architecture. A number of places of historical importance are situated in and around Badami. With a temperate climate, the summers here are moderately hot while winters are cool and pleasant. Famed for cave temples, fortresses, fine carvings, and wonderful architecture, Badami is a must visit place if a metropolitan detox is what you are looking for.

Attractions

Badami is a fascinating place, right from its location in a sandstone ravine to its ancient cave temples and the fort.
One of the most visited sites of Badami is the Badami Fort, built by Tipu Sultan in the 18th century. The fort houses two Shivalaya Complexes and the entrance is guarded by Nandi (Shiva’s bull). Touring the fort gives an insight to the archaeological splendour and culture of the bygone era. Durga Temple, Lad Khan Temple, Ravanaphadi Cave Temples, Huchimalli Temple, Meganagudi group, Gowda Temple and the Huchappayyagudi Temple are among other must visit attractions of Badami.

Another important Fort here is the Malegitti Shivalaya Fort and temple, which is an ancient example of Chalukya Architecture. This elegantly carved, rock-cut temple atop a rugged rocky outcrop was originally dedicated to the Sun God Surya. Now, the temple is devoted to Lord Shiva and houses a large Shivlinga placed on a pedestal inside the sanctum.The walls of the temple have a curved course and a central recessed portion which has been divided into panels with carvings of gana musicians, dancers and warriors. The walls of the mandapa have three projections with panels portraying Shiva and Vishnu.

Badami is also famous for the number of annual temple festivals that are held in towns around Badami. The annual temple festival, held at Banashankari, in the month of January-February is worth visiting; so are the Virupaksha Temple Car Festival and Mallikarjuna Temple Festival held in Pattadakal during March-April.

Another must visit attraction here is the Cave Temples of Badami. There are four separate temples, and each holds intricate carvings and depictions. These carvings depict Shiva and Vishnu in various avatars in the first 3 temples, representing the Brahmanical style. The fourth temple is dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras.

Another magnificent sight to behold here is the Lower Shivalaya temple. Lower Shivalaya is part of a series of temples situated across the northern hill of Badami. The intricately carved rock-cut structure of this temple is the best example of the magnificence of the Dravidian style of architecture.

Satisfy the shopaholic in you as you take home some hand-made artifacts and rugs from Badami. You can also shop for sandalwood and rosewood sculptures as well as some traditional jewellery.

Best time to visit
October to April serve as the best months to visit Badami. The area is pleasant throughout the year, however, summers can have the temperature shooting a little above what you might find comfortable.

How to reach
By Air – Nearest airport to Badami is in Belgaum, which is well connected to major cities of India.
By Train - Nearest railway station to Badami is in Hubli which is situated 100 kms away from this city. Hubli runs state bus to Badami directly and you can also hire a prepaid taxi to reach this city from Hubli directly.
By Road - Badami is located in between Belgaum and Bangalore which are directly connected via national highway hence you can reach this city easily by bus or by personal vehicle.