The history of Badami makes it one of the top tourist destinations in Karnataka. The majority of South India’s regions have a rich past. The state of Karnataka is the same. Particularly for the Badami district of Bagalkot. The Virupaksha Temple, Pattadakal, and the Badami caves are just a few of the attractions in this area. The area is well known for its beautiful architecture and many cultures.
OVERVIEW
Location- Karnataka
Nearest airport- Belgaum Airport
How to reach – by air from Bangalore/Hyderabad International airport
Famous for – Ancient Rock Cut Cave Temples
Best time to Visit – October to February
WHAT TO SEE
Badami Cave Temples, Bhuthanatha Group of Temples
Mallikarjuna Group of Temples,Badami Fort
Malegitti Shivalaya Fort & Temple,Agastya Theertha
Ravana Pahad,Archaeological Museum
Akka-Tangi Falls
History:
Badami is renowned for its history as well as the magnificent architecture that the Chalukyas left behind. The Durga temple at Aihole and the enormous collection of monuments at Pattadakal are only two examples of the numerous rock-cut artifacts that were carved or built during the Chalukya era. Karnataka is home to a diverse population, including Konkanis, Kannadigas, and Buddhists, to name a few. The Puranas, among other old texts, contain information about the location’s history.
Culture:
The culture of these ethnicities is still visible in the people living there. People can be spotted going around in dhotis. This shows how the culture has been preserved in the State. This place is an example of excellent craftsmanship from the Chalukyas. The amazing rock-cut caves, the holy temples, and the people around make you feel as though you have traveled back in time.
Badami Cave Temples: The former capital of the Chalukyas was Badami. Being the capital, the area is home to numerous stunning sculptures and scenery. The Badami is most known for its expertly crafted rock cuts. The Badami caves are a fantastic illustration of this. 200 steps lead up to the location of the Badami cave temples. The temples are fascinating due to their grandeur and grace.
Bhutanatha Group of Temples: The Bhutanatha Group of temples is situated on the east side of Agastya Teertha Lake. Thus if you visit any one of them, visiting the other one becomes a must. These temples include sculptures of Hindu deities such as Shiva with 18 arms, Durga, and many more Hindu deities.
Mallikarjuna Group of temples: These temples are mostly renowned for their unique style. These temples were built in the Phamsana style. This means that they were built in a pyramid-like shape. Like many other temples, these too date back to the Chalukyas period. They are mainly dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva.
Badami Fort: Badami Fort is just a treat to watch. The interior of the fort is filled with an amazing piece of architecture. The beautiful sculptures are a brilliant addition to the astounding beauty of the fort. It is said that this was one of the main forts for the rulers which just gives the thrill to be there.
Malegitti Shivalaya Temple and Fort:: The Malegitti Shivalaya Temple is dedicated to the sun god. Constructed around the 7th century, this is one of the few temples which are built in Dravidian style and makes it a great attraction for tourists.
Agastya Theertha: The Agastya Theertha Lake is situated below the famous cave Badami temples. This lake’s origin dates back to the 5th century. The water of the lake is considered to be holy water by the people up there. It is said that anyone who uses water is cured of all diseases. The Bhoothnath Temples situated just to the east of this lake add to the beauty and value of the site.
Ravana Pahada: The Ravana Phadi temple is different from all the other temples in Badami. Although built around the period of the 6th century, this temple will give you a different thrill. On the very entrance, you will find a broken column that opens to the temple. This gives you an idea of the history of the temple.
Archaeological Museum Badami: You can imagine the artifacts that have been stored in this Museum. With so many artifacts and heritage found in the region, building a Museum was just necessary. This museum houses great artifacts dating back to the times of Pulakesin.
Akka-Tangi Falls: If you feel that you have visited too many ancient places and seen many rocks then this is the next spot for you. Go back to nature and experience the soothing effect of the Akka-Tangi Falls. These falls are surrounded totally by lush green trees and bushes. This place is sure to take all the tiredness out of you.
Nearby attractions:
Apart from the world-famous Badami caves and many more such attractions there are other dazzling tourist attractions close by as well.
Pattadakal: Pattadakal, also known as Raktapura or Pattadakalu is famous for its temples. The temples are a mixture of Hindu and Jain’s temples built in the 7th and 8th centuries. These temples are known for their intricate designs of sculptures. The group of monuments at Pattadakal are mostly dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Aihole: Aihole also known as Aivalli or Ahivolal is a historic site in the Bagalkot district of Karnataka. Aihole consists of more than 120 temples. These temples date back to the 7th century. Monuments of ethnicities such as Buddhists, Jain, and Hindus are all found here. The Durga temples of Aihole are one of the best sculptures present there.
Other attractions:
Rock climbing: One of the top attractions for the brave and eager tourists in this area is rock climbing. This can be the best choice for you if you don’t like old sculptures. Here, there are climbing routes rated 5b to 8b+. This makes it the greatest rock climbing location for both experienced climbers and beginners.
How to reach:
By air: One can opt for the nearest Belgaum Airport. From there you can opt for a taxi to your preferred destination.
By road: There are hundreds of private Bus facilities provided for the tours of these places. These buses may come with various packages that offer you to drop them off at your specific hotels as well.
By train: The Bagalkot district has its own well-placed railway system that makes it easy for you to travel around. After reaching the desired station, you can choose to go to your preferred destination via cabs or Rickshaws.
Where to stay:
Badami has become a major tourist spot for foreigners. Keeping this in mind many hotels and motels have been set up to provide the necessary facilities for tourists. One of the best ones is named below.
Hotel Badami Court: This is an exclusive hotel with features such as a swimming pool, poolside coffee, lush green ambiance, and many more facilities.
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