Badami, Aihole, Pattadakal- The cradle of Hindu temple architecture
Located close to each other in Karnataka’s Bagalkot district, Badami, Aihole and Pattadakal are recognised as the places where the Hindu temple architecture took shape under the Chalukyas, between the sixth and eighth century CE. The temple walls and the sculptures have weathered a lot over the years(made of sandstone) but even today, they make you wonder how beautiful and intricate they would have been in their prime time. However in my view, the temples or the rock cut caves would not fall into the category of ‘must see’ unless you are keen on history.
Key places to visit
Badami– Cave temples. There are 4 caves. You get a good view of the Bhootnath temple and Agastya lake from here. You can also visit the fort on a hill opposite the cave temples.
View of Badami town, Lake and the Fort from the cave View of Badami cave temple Badami cave temple Sunflower field near Badami
Aihole– Durga temple. There are several other temple enclosures, most of which under under ruins.
Aihole temple Inside Durga temple, Aihole
Pattadakal– all temples in one enclosure.
Pattadakal temples Pattadakal temple
Mahakoota and Banashankari temples are also located close to Badami. The tank is Mahakoota temple is clean enough for people to take a dip.
Kids enjoying bath at Mahakoota temple tank
Travel to Badami
The best way to travel to Badami would be by the overnight train. Bit slow though-it takes 11-12 hours. You can also drive down-a distance of ~450 kms. If driving , you can halt at Hosapete/TB Dam if you wish to avoid a 10-11 hour drive. You can consider combining Hampi and Badami into one visit.
For local travel, best to engage a cab. If you start early, you can even cover all the 3 locations in one day.
Accomodation and Food
There are only couple of decent hotels in Badami, with room rent ~INR 2,500 per night. You can book online. There are no proper restaurants as such elsewhere though some of the small restaurants outside Aihole appear to be serving decent vegetarian meal. If you are a bit fussy, pack food from your Badami hotel.
When to visit
Post monsoon and winter is best-Say September to February. Afternoons can still be warm.
Other matters
With overflowing garbage and open drains, some of the areas surrounding the temples are not clean. But the temple complexes are well maintained. Rest rooms are available.
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