Badami Cave Temples – Ancient Rock-Cut Shrines in Karnataka
The Badami town of northern Karnataka houses the mesmerizing cave temples with distinct appeal and architecture. Carved in the sandstone hills, there are four caves, out of which 3 are dedicated to Vedic faith and the fourth one to the Jainism.Stone columns, brackets, verandahs, columned halls, murals and sculptures are the main features of these temples.
History
Badami Cave Temples were carved from the 6th century onwards under the reign of the Chalukya dynasty. This temple is the fusion of the two architectural styles: Dravidian and Nagara. Its wall is adorned with carvings of the Hindu gods Shiva and Vishnu, Jain figures, and exquisite mythological figures.
Specialty
The Badami Cave Temples are one of the great places to witness breath-taking rock-cut architecture and intricate carvings. Comprising four caves, they provide outstanding sculptures of Hindu gods such as Shiva, Vishnu, and Mahavira in the Jain cave. These places are cultural and architectural wonders because of mesmerizing craftsmanship, ancient murals, and the panoramic views of Agastya Lake.
The stunning rock-cut architecture, intricate carvings, and cultural importance are why tourists must visit the Badami Cave Temples. The captivating sculptures of Hindu and Jain deities also show the artistry of the Chalukya dynasty. The scenery of Agastya Lake adds to the scenic beauty.
The best time to visit the Badami Cave Temple is from November to February.- Entry fees: No entry fees
- Opening & Closing Timing : It’s open every day from 06:00 am to 06:00 pm.
How to reach
By Air : The nearest airport is at Belagavi (around 150 km), and one can fly domestically from there to bigger cities. If you reach Hubli, just around 120 km from here, you can hire a taxi to reach the temple.
By Train : Badami has a railway station that links important cities such as Bengaluru, Hubli, and Goa. Get off at Badami, and you can take a taxi to the temples.
By Road : Badami is well connected by road. Regular bus services are available from cities like Bengaluru, Hubli, and Bagalkot.