Badami Tourist Attractions - Visit the famous Cave temples and explore other historical structures built during the periods of Chalukyas and the Pallavas.

Badami, along with Pattadkal and Aihole was one of the regions during the reign of Chalukyas and the Pallavas that saw development in art and culture in this region. These three places have various temples and monuments which describe architecture of the Chalukyas and the Pallavas.

Badami Cave temples

Four rock-cut Badami Cave Temples were constructed between the 6th and 8th centuries. The rock-cut Badami Cave Temples were sculpted mostly between the 6th and 8th centuries.

The four cave temples represent the secular nature of the rulers then. Their tolerance and religious following patronized Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism.

Number of inscriptions can be found in these cave temples dating back to the ancient period. The magnificent among the carvings are 81 dance poses of Nataraja.

Important stone carvings of Hindu deities Ganapati, Shanmuka, Mahishasura Mardhini, Ardha Nariswara, Sankara Narayana, Vishnu, Trivikrama, Astadikpalakas and Adisesha can be seen here. The fourth cave is a Jain Temple dating back to 12th century with carvings of Jain Tirthankaras Mahavira, Parshwanatha and Padmavati.

A Buddhist cave in a natural setting that can be entered only by crawling on knees.

Other Sightseeing spots in Badami

• The Bhutanatha temple, a small shrine, facing the lake, constructed in 5th century.
• Badami Fort is situated on top of the hill.
• Temples or Shivalayas including the Malegitti Shivalaya with 7th century origins.
• Dattatreya Temple.
• The Mallikarjuna temple dating back to the 11th century, built on a star shaped plan.
• A Dargah, a dome of an Islamic place of worship on the south fort side.
• View points on top of the North Fort for the view of the ancient town below.
• The Famous Banashankari Temple is located nearby.
• Archeological museum, which has collection of sculptures from Badami, Aihole and Pattadakal.

Places to see around Badami

Pattadkal - Various momuments showcasing South Indian Hindu Architecture. Pattadakal tour guide is here 

Aihole - Excellent spot to see rock-cut architecture of the Chalukyas. Aihole tour guide is here

Travel Tips

• Wear loose cotton clothes as it is humid in this region. Carry water or juices to keep yourself hydrated
• Hats, Caps and Goggles protect you from the Sun. Caryy suncreens also.
• On your Badami holiday tour, it is best if you combine his with Aihole and Pattadkal since they are closeby.
• There may be entrace fees to the Cave temples and / or some other sites

Return to Badami tour guide or explore some more interesting places to see in Karnataka