- How to Get There
- Badami Fort
- Bhutanath Temple
- Cave temples
Badami : The Richness of Red
Badami : The Richness of Red
Once it was the majestic capital of the magnificent Chalukya Empire, now Badami is a small but interesting town. An atmosphere of tranquility envelopes the area while a spiritual aura is radiated by the many temples. Apart from the holy temples, Badami has cultural heritages and majestic monuments. The red soil of the land creates a sanguine effect on everything it touches.The rule of the Chalukya dynasty has left a strong mark on the landscape of Badami. Widely considered to be one of the best architects of their age, the people of the Chalukya Empire have left behind some of the most spectacular buildings in the area. The incredible temples built by them were inspired from Dravidan style principles. The Chalukya dynasty was, however, famed for their ability to create these stunning temples by carving out a single huge rock. These temples have elaborate designs and magnificent idols and add to the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
How to Get There
By Air :
The Nearest airports to are Hubli:106 km and Belgaum: 150 km.
By Rail :
The nearest major railway station is at Badami. Hubli junction is the nearest railway junction to Badami.
By Road :
Badami is well connected by road to the nearby cities and many other cities.
Badami Fort
Gigantic cliffs of red sandstone will greet you as you enter the majestic Badami Fort. The historic fort was mostly destroyed in an ancient war but is still has a sense of pride about it. The fort contains a few fascinating temples, doorways and ramparts. From the fort, you get a panoramic view of the town and the fantastic lake. The fort has been built into the cliff which adds to its beauty.
Bhutanath Temple
The Bhutanath group of temples is dedicated to Lord Bhutanath, an avatar of Lord Shiva. Crafted beautifully from sandstone, the cluster of temples are located close to a stunning lake. The structure of the temple has two possible influences. They will remind you of the Dravidian architecture of the South Indian temples and the Nagara architecture of the North Indian temples. These are ancient temples and their design and execution is a testament of the skills of the workers who made them without any technological help. The original temple was built in the 7th century.
Cave temples
The highlight of the attractions in Badami is the fantastic cave temples. These caves contain not only Hindu temples but also Buddhist and Jain temples. The architecture of the temples is elaborate and you will be mesmerized by the intricate and detailed carvings and designs on the walls of the temple. Among the Hindu temples, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva are represented. The idol of Lord Shiva in his Nataraja pose is stunning and incredible. The magnificent statue shows Nataraja, the lord of dance, striking 81 poses at the same time. This dance is known as the Tandva dance which could bring an apocalypse. All of these temples are ancient with the Nataraja temple originating from the 5th century.
