Madhya Pradesh is a treasure trove of a royal city like Bhopal, a smart city like Indore, and nature-based places such as Pachmarhi. Orchha is a fort city which was the headquarters of the Bundelkhand kingdom, once upon a time. 

Orchha in Madhya Pradesh is a place of interest for people belonging to various fields. A history buff, a spiritually oriented person, a backpacker, an explorer or a person just wanting to have thrill and adventure while travelling, this place offers something for everyone. For people interested in architecture, the monuments are a treat. It shows a beautiful cultural blend of Bundelkhand and Medieval architecture and is greatly appreciated for its engineering work too. Orchha tourist places give an experience of a mix of history, architecture and thrill.

Places to visit in Orchha

Orchha settled on the banks of the river Betwa and was discovered by the Bundela Rajput King, Maharaja Rudra Pratap Singh in the 16th century. It seems that the town is still dwelling in the grandeur of the past as the monuments here are fresh and still speak about the history they have witnessed and have imprints of all the former rulers, who have contributed immensely to the evolution of this place. 

Places to visit in Orchha include beautiful palaces and temples depicting mediaeval architecture, each narrating the story of their grand past of which they were once a part.

Orchha Fort Complex 

Orchha fort is a complex comprising many structures. Orchha fort complex overlooking the Betwa river sure paints a beautiful picture. It houses the fort, palaces, temples and other important architectural structures. 

The Orchha fort complex is different from the ones in Rajasthan like Kumbhalgarh or the ones in Maharashtra like Lohagad Fort. Rajasthan’s forts were built on Mewar architecture however this one is a blend of local Chandela, Mughal and Mediaeval architecture. It was built by Maharaja Rudra Pratap Singh and more features were added to it by its subsequent kings to beautify it. 

The fort of Orchha depicts the grandeur and stories of valour of Rajput Bundela Kings. One of the major tourist attractions in Orchha is the light and sound show which starts only after the fort is closed for visitors during both the summer and winter seasons. 

The sound of running horses in the background, the lions, war-like situations and the narration of Orchha’s glorious past take visitors deep into history, experiencing it today. It is operational in both Hindi and English languages and has different timings as per the season.  

Raja Palace 

Raja Palace forms a major part of the Orchha fort complex. As the name suggests, it is the main palace where the King and the Queens resided. It was constructed by Raja Rudra Pratap Singh in the 16th century and was later completed by King Madhukar Shah in the 17th century. 

The exterior of the palace is very simple and bare, however, the interiors are very lavish and grand. It is decorated with beautiful architectural designs and murals and has various theme-based works of art about the Gods, Mythical creatures and people. 

A part of this temple has been converted into Ram Raja Temple, dedicated to Lord Ram. As Lord Ram is worshipped here within the palace, this place is the only shrine of Lord Rama in the country where the Lord is worshipped as a King, making it to the list of important places to visit in Orchha.

Sheesh Mahal 

Places to visit in Orchha cannot be complete without visiting the Sheesh Mahal. Once a residential palace of Maharaja Udait Singh, King of Orchha, it was built to give the king a peaceful and private place to rest and retreat. Much like the palace of mirrors in Jaipur and Bhuj, this is similar and opulent. 

A part of this grand palace has also been converted into a modern-day hotel with all the lavish amenities and is accounted as one of India’s major Heritage Hotels. It has Deluxe, Super Deluxe and a Suite for the guests to enjoy the grandeur of a royal stay during their visit. It also helps to organise conferences and destination weddings at the hotel. 

Jahangir Palace 

Orchha in Madhya Pradesh is a place which speaks volumes of friendship and hospitality. The Jahangir palace was built during the 17th century, by Bir Singh Deo for the emperor Jahangir, his friend, on his maiden visit as a gesture of warm welcome. It’s an architectural marvel and is a three-storied structure built around a square with marvellous sculptures, hanging balconies and delicate chhatris. 

Palace depicts beautiful Indo-Islamic architecture and is marked by different courtyards, rooms, intricate balconies and domes. This palace marks evidence of a friendship between two rulers of different communities. It is now under the aegis of the Madhya Pradesh Archeological Department.

Raja Ram Temple | Orchha Temple

It is also known as the Orchha temple and is one of the oldest temples in India and is considered to be very sacred. Built-in the 16th century, this is the only place in India where Lord Rama is worshipped as a King and that too in a palace. A guard of honour is given to the Lord every day and police personnel are deployed as the guards of the King. The food provided to the Lord too is royal in nature. Armed salutation is given to the Lord every day. 

This Orchha temple was built by Raja Madhukar Shah for his queen Ganesh Kuwari. The legend says that Ganesh Kuwari went to Ayodhya to get an image of Lord Rama to enshrine in her new temple in Orchha. However, as the construction of the temple was not complete, the idol of the Lord had to be placed in the palace temporarily. 

When the construction got completed, the idol was to be moved to Chaturbhuj Temple however the idol refused to be removed from its place. As such, the palace was converted into a temple and Lord Rama was worshipped as King. Here, Lord Rama is sitting in Padmasana and spotting his left foot is considered to be very auspicious. This is amongst the unmissable places to visit in Orchha and one of its kind in India. 

Also Read about the unique temple in Madhya Pradesh: Bhojeshwar Shiva Temple, Bhopal.

Chaturbhuj Temple

As the name suggests ‘Chaturbhuj’ means one who has four hands. This temple refers to Rama as an avatar of Vishnu. It was originally built to house an idol of Lord Rama which was brought from Ayodhya to be enshrined here. However, the idol refused to be removed from its place and hence Raja Rama Temple was built within the Palace. The image of Radha Krishna is worshipped here. 

Architecturally, this temple has tall spires in the shape of spine cones four in number resembling the four arms of the Chaturbhuj. It resembles the Basilica in its looks.

Royal Cenotaphs

The purpose of building cenotaphs is to remember and commemorate the great rulers of the Bundela dynasty who gave grandeur and magnificence to this place. 

These are fourteen of the kinds built on the bank of the river Betwa. They were built from the early 16th to 18th centuries. Here too like other structures the architecture is a fine blend of Mughal and Bundela (Rajput) styles and speaks greatly of the cultural influences of that time. 

These are built on a raised platform usually and designed as tall and square shapes with chhatris on the top. Orchha in Madhya Pradesh offers an enigmatic combination of history with spiritualism which marks it boldly on the tourism map. 

Laxmi Narayan Temple

It is built at a place around 2 km from the Orchha Fort Complex, this temple is dedicated to goddess Laxmi, who is the Hindu goddess of wealth. It was initially built by Maharaja Bir Singh Deo in the year 1622 however because of low maintenance it was in a bad shape. 

Later it was reconstructed by Maharaja Prithvi Singh in the year 1793. Like other monuments in Orchha, this temple too is an architectural beauty which is rectangular in shape and the walls depict beautiful paintings and murals. The themes of these paintings are mostly from the Ram Charit Manas and from India’s first struggle for independence in the year 1857. 

Phool bagh 

As the name suggests, Phool bagh is a garden which fascinates visitors with its greenery. It maintains all the aesthetics of the Bundela kingdom. 

It houses beautiful fountains in the centre of the place which has an amazing system of water ventilation and it keeps the area cool. There are two wind-catching towers which are named after the Indian months of Saawan and Bhaddon which are perforated on the top to catch air and the bottom of these towers are connected to the reservoir. The aeration and the water systems are such that it helps the area to cool and hence these are called the cooling towers of Orchha. These are the lone examples of the Persian system of cooling in India.

Rai Parveen Mahal 

Rai Parveen was a great poet and singer and was known as the ‘Nightingale of Orchha’. The palace has three stories and the central hall the palace has beautiful paintings showing the various moods of Rai Parveen. The architecture of the palace is such that it ensures cool temperatures even during heated summer days. It has been seen that the temperature inside the palace is said to be ten degrees lower than the outside temperature. Alongside the palace, there is a beautiful garden, also known as the Anand Mahal Bagh.

Other Attractions in Orchha 

Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary 

Out of the many places to visit in Orchha, Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary offers amazing opportunities for wildlife spotting, birding and photography. It was established in the year 1994 and lies within the area where the Betwa river flows. 

Compared to other wildlife sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh, this one is small, around 45 sq km. Wildlife enthusiasts may not be able to spot the big cats like Tigers and Leopards however animals like Jackal, Sloth Bear Nilgai and Blue Bull are among the most seen. 

There are around 200 species of birds including the in-house as well as migrant birds which can be seen here. One can spot peafowls, Swan, black swans, peacocks, Jungle bush quail and many more. 

Shahid Smarak of Chandra Shekhar Azad 

Orchha becomes relevant to this legendary hero as he spent a few days here during his days of exile and made a creditable contribution to India’s freedom struggle. It is situated around 4 km from Orchha and gives a comprehensive account of his life spent here.  

Rafting in Orchha 

Amongst all Orchha tourist places, which are bound by history and architecture, rafting gives a different experience and is meant for all the tourists and backpackers who are looking for some adventure during their trip. One can go rafting on the rapids of the Betwa river. There are many institutes in Orchha which arrange and facilitate rafting. Some names are Ram Raja Adventures and Orchha Adventure Camp.

Places to visit near Orchha 

Jhansi 

Located at around 13 km from Orchha and just half an hour’s drive, Jhansi town is well known for India’s struggle for independence. Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi played an epic role in the freedom struggle. It was ruled by Chandela kings in the early 11th century and later was ruled by Peshwa I. Having importance in history, Jhansi houses a magnificent fort, beautiful gardens and Chhatris (Cenotaphs) of its rulers which forms an important part of sightseeing. 

Khajuraho 

The place is known for its beautiful sculptures on temples. There are around 85 temples here, each built in sandstone with various shades of pink, buff and yellow. Located at a distance of around 185 Kms from Orchha, this place is a must-visit for people who are connoisseurs of art.  

Gwalior 

Another historic town closeby to Orchha ka Kila is Gwalior which is located at a distance of 120 Kms or a two hours drive. Being the birthplace of the great Sangeet Samrat Tansen, this city not only boasts of royalty but also is rich in history and cultural heritage. It is famous for grand palaces, temples and a fort. The city has given many leaders in Indian politics like Late Shri Madhav Rao Sindhia and Jyotiraditya Sindhia.

Best time to visit Orchha 

Orchha has hot weather. The temperatures in summer can go up to 45/47 degree celsius making it very difficult and exhausting to go sightseeing.

From September, the temperatures begin to fall making it pleasant. These temperatures keep Orchha vibrant till the month of March. One can visit Orchha between these months.

Ideal months to visit are October and November when the temperatures are cool and the weather clear thus making it ideal for moving around places and sightseeing.

How to reach Orchha 

The approximate distances from various important cities of Madhya Pradesh to Orchha are:

Orchha to Jhansi – 13 Kms (27 min)

Orchha to Gwalior – 120 Kms (2 Hr 25 min)

Orchha to Khajuraho – 183 Kms (3 Hr 12 min)

Orchha to Bhopal – 335 Kms (6 Hr 54 min)

Orchha to Indore – 490 Kms (8 Hr 35 min)

By Flight

The nearest Airport from Orchha is Gwalior and it is connected to all the metros via rail, road and air. From Gwalior, one can take a taxi to reach Orchha.

By Rail 

The nearest railway station to Orchha is Jhansi. It is one of the busiest and largest railway stations in India and falls under the main railway line of the Delhi-Chennai and Delhi-Mumbai Line. 

By Road 

By road, the nearest place is Jhansi. One can take an autorickshaw or hire a taxi to reach Orchha. 

There are many tour operators who can arrange transportation from Jhansi and Gwalior by pre-arranged taxis to reach Orchha. One can also contact Madhya Pradesh Tourism for any queries.

Where to stay during the Orchha fort visit

There are few options to stay in Orchha but all of them are cosy and comfortable. There is a lovely Madya Pradesh tourism resort, right by the riverside while there are other private resorts too.

Luxury Resorts in Orchha

Bundelkhand Riverside is a luxury property spread over 50 acres of scenic land on the banks of the River Betwa. The 4-star property in Orchha features an outdoor pool and a games room.

Hotel Rajwada Palace is another great property in Orchha.

FAQs about Places to visit in Orchha and Orchha Fort

Is Orchha a world heritage site?

Orchha is a living cultural site which is why this historical fort city Orchha has been included in the list of UNESCO world heritage cities. Another fort town in Madhya Pradesh is Mandu which is also worth the visit.

Is Orchha worth visiting?

Orchha is a stunning place and well worth a visit due to its culture and architecture. There are palaces, temples, forts and many other amazing places to visit.

What is special in Orchha?

While Orchha has many attractions like a palace, fort and temples, there are many offbeat things to do in Orchha such as visiting a wildlife sanctuary, water-rafting and a shahid smarak.

How many days are sufficient for Orchha?

Orchha is a small town but offers many places to visit. Ideally, the entire town of Orchha can be covered in 2 days. 

Sustainable travel tips for Places to visit in Orchha

• India is a conservative country with hot weather so wear the right clothes. The skirt and pants till knee level are good. Avoid spaghetti and tank tops. Cover your shoulders with a scarf if necessary.
• Choose local food wherever possible.
• Do not litter tourist places. Always use a dustbin.
• Do not harm the palace, forts and temple structures by carving or writing on it

Disclaimer – This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

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Visiting is the Modhera Sun Temple is one of my favourite places to visit near Ahmedabad for one day. Read why Ahmedabad to Modhera Sun Temple is an easy and must-do trip.

India is famous for its temples; their architecture, their cultural importance and how they existed through centuries declaring them as UNESCO Heritage Sites. Indian temples worship a lot of things and one of them is the Sun! Modhera hosts one of the Sun temples in India. The sun has been so important to the village that now a 6 MW solar plant, coupled with a 15 MWh battery energy storage system, is installed to meet the town’s day and night electricity requirements. Modhera is India’s first solar village.

Sun God or Surya Dev: Why is the Sun worshipped?

Sun god is worshipped across cultures and for many centuries. Most ancient cultures worshipped the sun in and of itself, regularly bowing before it as the most potent force in the universe, to which they owed gratitude, obedience and adoration. The Egyptians respect the deity Ra (‘sun’), depicted in their sculpture as a falcon-headed god with a solar disk over his head. The Aztecs enchanted sacred poetry to Tonatiuh, the sun god, and the ancient Celts expressed piety to Grannus, god both of the sun and wisdom. In the Native American cultures, such as the Iroquois and Plains peoples, the sun was recognized as a life-giving force. Many of the Plains tribes still perform a Sun Dance each. In MesoAmerican cultures, the sun was associated with kingship, and many rulers claimed divine rights by way of their direct descent from the sun.

In India, according to Hindu mythology, Hindus refer to the sun as unlimited energy storage. Hence in olden times, sun temples were constructed to revere the sun god. Over 10 temples are present in various parts of India for sun salutation. Having been to Konark Sun temple already, I eagerly wanted to visit Modhera Sun Temple.

History of Modhera Sun Temple, Gujarat

The Sun temple of Modhera was built by Rishabh Bhimdev – I of the Solanki dynasty. The Solankis were great architects and their creations are a testament to the bygone era that still stands strong. The Solankis were considered to be the descendants of the Sun God and the Modhera Surya Mandir was constructed as an offering to the Sun God. The temple was designed in such a way that the first rays of the sun illuminate the sanctum during the equinox. 

The Surya idol was robbed by Mahmud Ghazni who took the original idol that was carved in gold. And then later the temple was destroyed by Allauddin Khilji. Due to this, no ceremonial worships or offerings take place in the present day. However, the temple walls still maintain a grandeur that is enough to mesmerize visitors.

My visit to Sun Temple Modhera

I knew I had to take a guided tour to know about the architecture in detail. As soon as I entered the complex, I was surrounded by guides who offered themselves to educate me with all the information about the temple. After a good deal, I caved in.

Architecture of Modhera Sun Temple

The guide informed us all about the Modhera Sun Temple. The temple is divided into three parts namely Surya Kund (stepwell), Sabha Mandap (assembly hall) and Guda Mandap (sanctum sanctorum). The main temple faces east so that the rays of the sunlit the idol carved in the main shrine. The temple is a depiction of the sun and its unity with earth’s elements – air, water, soil & space. 

The temple is made using lime mortar and is a classic example of art on the wall. The temple follows the principles of Vastu Shilpa.  The temple structure is designed in such a way that it resembles a flowering lotus.

We started our exploration of the complex with Surya Kund.

Modhera Sun Temple is a popular spot for photography, painting pre-wedding photoshoots

Surya Kund

Surya Kund – is the perfect example of geometry from the 11th century. Surya Kund is a stepwell which is 4 stories below the ground. This water reservoir’s rectangular design and innumerable steps leading to the water base reminded me of the Panna Meena ka Kund, Jaipur. There are three main shrines on the three sides of the kund dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Lord Ganesha and Lord Shiva’s avatar Natraja. The kund is adorned with 108 miniature temples carved in the corners and in between the steps that are dedicated to gods and demigods.

During its glory when the temple deity was present, devotees were required to perform ablutions before entering the temple.

The guide requested us to spend time at the kund after the entire visit was over.

Sabha Mandap

The pillared hall welcomes the visitors on entering the main temple. Also known as the hall of religious gathering, it is open from all sides and has 52 intricately carved pillars that represent 52 weeks in a year. The carvings are scenes from important events from Ramayana, Mahabharat and Krishna Leela.

Between the Sabha Mandap and the Sanctum Sanctorum is another hall with pillars and arches. The walls depict 12 aspects of Sun God in each month of the year.

Sanctum Sanctorum

By this time I was dumbstruck to imagine an engineer who constructed this wonder in the year 1026 and executed it with such skilled craftsmanship.

Upon entering the Sanctum Sanctorum, the guide informed us that the Lotus flower is considered the Sun God’s flower. This is why the temple design is based on the inverted lotus-base plinth.  It was designed in such a way that the sun rays of the rising and setting sun on equinox days (20th March and 21st September) fell on the bejewelled pure gold idol.

Exterior Wall Sculptures

The exterior walls of the temple are extensively carved with idols symbolizing the gods Indra, Varuna and Vishwakarma. There are many erotic carvings on the walls which symbolize the human cycle of birth and death.

Modhera Dance Festival 

Historically known as the Uttarardh Mahotsav based on the planetary and astronomical configuration of the Sun. The festival also marks the rotation of the sun around the earth when winters come to an end and summers start. 

The state government organizes an annual Modhera Dance festival that includes thrilling dance performances and musical programmes overlooking the temple. The Modhera Dance Festival is celebrated in the third week of January after the festival of Uttarayan. It is conducted to celebrate the art, dance form, and culture of India and is a 3 day fair.

The temple is decked up in colourful lights for the festival.

3D Light and Sound show at Modhera Sun Temple

The Indian Prime Minister recently inaugurated the 3D Light and Sound show at Modhera Temple Light Show wherein the entire temple complex including the Surya Kund is illuminated with lights. The history and architecture are explained through 3D lights and sound systems. The Modhera Light and Sound show will run every day between 7 pm to 7.30 pm.

Modhera Surya Mandir timing

Modhera Sun Temple is open from 8 am to 6 pm. 

Sun Temple Modhera entry fee

INR 40 for Indian Nationals and INR 600 for Foreign Nationals. Photography is included in this fee but tripods and drones are not allowed. Prior permission needs to be obtained for drone shooting.

Best time to visit Modhera Sun Temple

Mornings and evenings are the best time to visit the sun temple as the weather is very pleasant.

Month wise, Gujarat is extremely hot during summers with temperatures rising up to 45 degrees. Monsoon is humid making it better than summer but still uncomfortable to walk. Winters are the best season to visit Gujarat.

How to reach Modhera Surya Mandir

By road

Ahmedabad to Modhera is well connected through Mahesana. From Ahmedabad, you can get a GSRTC bus from the Bus stand. The best option is to reach the Adalaj crossroad and hire a bus. If you don’t get a direct bus, you can take the bus to Mahesana (Frequency – 15 – 20 mins). From Mahesana, you can hire a Jeep, and Rickshaw to reach Modhera (30 km). Same for Modhera to Ahmedabad.

By train

The nearest railway station to Modhera is Mehsana. From there, visitors can hire a cab or bud till Modhera.

By flight

The nearest airport to Modhera is the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, at a distance of about 94 kilometres. Ahmedabad has good connectivity to many domestic and international airports. From Ahmedabad, visitors can travel by road to Modhera, either by hiring a cab or by bus operated by GSRTC (Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation).

Hotels near Modhera Sun Temple

Since most people prefer a one day trip from Ahmedabad, the accommodation options in Modhera are fewer. Patan is a bigger town and hence has a few mid-range hotels in case you want to extend your stay. 

Hotel The Grand Piano

The Grand Raveta

Places to visit near Modhera 

Patan

Patan to Modhera is a common travel circuit. Situated only 35 km away from each other it can easily be combined for a visit together.Patan is beautiful offering many places to see. There are temples, such as Panchasara Parshvanath Jain Derasar, the Kapur Mehta Na Pado and Mahavir Swami Derasar. Patan is also famous for Rani-ki-Vav, the stepwell featured on Rs. 100 currency note. Paan is also famous for the heritage Patola saree. One can witness the silk weaving of Patola saree in Patan Patola Heritage Museum.

Vadnagar

Vadnagar is 65 km away and offers many heritage places. The fanous Kirti Toran of Vadnagar,

Hatkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Mehta ni Vav Sharmishtha Lake Vadnagar and Tana Riri Garden are some of the places to visit in Vadnagar. Read more here: Heritage places in Vadnagar

Sidhpur

Sidhpur is a humble little town that has a powerful place in history and mythology. It was here on the banks of the Saraswati River that the great warrior Parasurama performed the last rites of his mother, making Sidhpur a sacred pilgrimage among Hindu devotees honoring their maternal ancestors. Sidhpur has two protected national monuments namely: Ruins of Rudra Mahalaya Temple and the Jami Masjid that attract tourists here.

Vohravad

Built in a distinctive architectural style, the Vohrawad are rows of narrow, deep mansions, about three to four storeys high, along the main street. These houses belong to the Vohra community, a Shia Muslim trading community from Gujaratin. These houses are peculiar as they have a strong European character with gabled roofs, ornate balconies, columns, decorated doors and are painted in pastel shades. 

FAQs

Is a combined visit possible to Modhera and Patan?

Yes. Most visitors combine a visit to Modhera and Patan. It is a perfect one day trip from Ahmedabad.

Which is the deity in the Modhera Sun Temple?

The Modhera Sun Temple is dedicated to Sun God. But since the idol was robbed there is no deity in the temple at present.  as the name suggests is dedicated to the Sun God. 

The Sun temple in Modhera was built during the reign of the Solanki king, Bhima I, however, there is no record of who the architect of the temple was.

Sustainable travel tips for Modhera Surya Mandir

• Being an ancient heritage site which is already dwindling with age, respect the structures by not sitting on them. Sit outside the temple in the garden.
• Do not harm the structures by carving or writing on it
• Do not enter places which are closed off, there’s a reason why they are closed.
• Throw your garbage in the dustbins located at the entrance of each temple.

Read about other posts in Gujarat

• Statue of Unity Guide- Day trip from Ahmedabad
• Bhuj – Gateway to Rann Utsav
• Rann Utsav at Tent City
• Places to visit in Jamnagar
• Things to do in Vadodara
• Girnar Ropeway

Disclaimer – This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

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The sun was already beating down by the time I reached Aihole village. The car crossed through many structures that resembled temple architecture and my car driver was quick to add that the entire village of Aihole hosts over 120 temples. Some temples have not survived the test of time while some are revived by the Archeological Survey of India (ASI). This gave me a feeling of Angkor Wat where there are many temples, all spread across a huge area.

History of Aihole 

Before going to Aihole, I couldn’t help but notice the number of questions for Aihole in UPSC. This led me to read more about Aihole history and Aihole inscriptions. According to the ancient inscriptions in Aihole, the village was earlier named “Ayyavole” and “Aryapura. I wondered who built Aihole and the answer was Ravikeerti, Commander and Minister of Pulakesin II in 634 AD.

The temples in Aihole were built during the period of Chalukyas is between the 7-8th century. The temples are dedicated to Hinduism and Jainism and have beautiful architecture. Maybe that is the reason why Aihole is called the cradle of Indian temple architecture. The architecture of the temple is predominantly Dravida with Nagara style.

Legend associated with Aihole

According to the legend, Bhagwan Parashuram after avenging the death of his father came down to the river Malaprabha and washed his blood-stained hands and battle axe. The blood and gore on the axe turned the river red. A woman saw this and screamed ‘Ayyo Hole’ meaning ‘Oh No Blood!’ in Kannada the local language. The dialect over the years turned Ayyo Hole into Aihole.

Aihole Architecture

It is said the architects and artists who built Aihole temples were still trying to perfect their preferred style of temple. There are a lot of places that are a reflection of many kinds of architecture. 

Like most Chalukyan architecture, the temples in Aihole are built cutting the rocks. In most areas of the Bagalkot district, red sandstone is prominent which is the rock used in this temple architecture. The towers of the temples were carved with a blind arch which was inherited from the North Indian style.

The Aihole Inscription

The Aihole Inscription is believed to have been composed by the Jain poet Ravikeerthi. The inscription dates back to 634 CE and is written in a combination of Sanskrit and the old Kannada script. 

It contains details of the achievements of Pulakesi II, especially his victory against Harshavardhana, the ruler of Northern India.

Temples of Aihole

There are many temples in Aihole complex overlooking a beautiful and manicured garden. This complex also houses an archeological museum.

Durga Temple

Aihole is famous for Durga temple. The Durga temple is horseshoe-shaped, incidentally named, not for the deity, but because there was a fort wall. Durga Temple is also known as Fortress Temple and was originally dedicated to Sun God.

Durga temple, Aihole is semi-circular in its plan. The back resembles the hind part of an elephant. The temple comprises a semicircular sanctum placed within a pillared hall and a square porch. The entire structure is placed within a larger semicircular cage-like structure.

Visitors have to climb steps from the south to get awed by the relief sculptures on the pillars and niches. There are sculptures of embracing couples like Asvamukhiyakshi, Surya and Chhaya, Narsimha, and Ardhanari. Other sculptures include Shiva, Nandi, Vishnu riding Garuda, Varaha, Harihara, and others. There are also depictions of Ramayana episodes on the pedestal of the porch.

Lad Khan Temple

The Lad Khan Temple is known by the name of a Muslim man who lived in the temple before the British Archaeologists drove him out. This is one of the oldest temples in Aihole, dating back to 450 AD. 

The Lad Khan temple has two mandapas that look like Shiva Linga. These mantapas are Mukha Mandapa and Sabha Mandapa. The Mukha Mandapa rests on twelve pillars while the pillars on which the Sabha Mantapa rests are arranged in two concentric squares. The pillars here have some interesting designs on them, such as the emblem of the Chalukyas, the boar, and a mirror, with the conch and wheel, representing the Varaha form of Vishnu, their tutelary deity.

The Archaeological Museum, Aihole

The Archaeological Museum is located within the Durga Temple complex in Aihole. The museum houses 381 antiquities mainly consisting of stone sculptures of Brahmanical, Jaina, and Buddhist faith, fragmentary carved architectural members, inscriptions, hero stones, sati stones, etc. These sculptures range in date from 6th century CE to 15th century CE. The museum is divided into six galleries and an open-air gallery. Out of 381 antiquities, 145 are displayed in six galleries inside the museum and open air gallery.

The huge open-air gallery has more than forty sculptures comprising mainly Herostones, Ganesh, Saptamatrikas, seated figures in the Chaitya arch, Jainas sculptures, Naga and Nagini figures dating from the 7th to 10th centuries of the Chalukyas of Badami and the Rashtrakutas, are displayed.

Gaudara Gudi

This early Chalukya temple stands on an elevated pedestal. It consists of an open rectangular pillared hall with a rectangular sanctum within. The roof is flat at the center and sloping on all four sides. The sanctum’s exterior walls have empty niches decorated with north Indian-style pediments. A Kannada inscription of the 8th century on a beam confirms its dedication to Maa Durga.

Other group of Aihole temples around the village

Ravana Phadi Cave

Ravana Phadi Cave temple was built in the sixth century. It has a rectangular shrine with two mantapas. There is an inner room where a Shiva Linga is established. There are large figures of Lord Shiva on the walls which also include the statue of Nataraja.

Group of Yeniar Shrines

The group of Yeniar shrines consists of eight temples that were built in the 12th century. Each temple has a porch along with a cellar and a hall. The temples were constructed on the banks of Malaprabha river.

Ramalinga Group of Temples

The main temple in this group is Ramalinga which is a trikutachala shrine. Out of these three, two have Shiva Linga and the third has the image of Goddess Parvati. This shrine was built in the 11th century AD. Along with these, there are two towers called Kadambanagara towers which was a temple form of architecture founded in the 4th century by Mayurasharma, founder of Kadamba dynasty.

Jyotirlinga Complex

There are 16 big and small temples in this complex. While most of them are ruined, they still have beautiful sculptures. There is a Vishnu temple here in Kalyana Chalukya style from the 11th century. Other temples in the complex are dedicated to Mahishamardini. Surya, Sangamanatha, Brahma as well as Parashuram.

Galaganatha Group of Temples

Galaganatha Group of Temples were built on the banks of Malaprabha river in which the main Shrine is Galaganatha which has the statue of Lord Shiva. The images of Ganga and Yamuna can be found at the entrance. The total number of temples in this group is 38 and besides Galaganatha, most of them are ruined.

Huchchappayana Matha

This temple is divided into two sections and sits in a huge manicured garden. Although when I went, the locals were resting in the complex and even were drying clothes on the structures.

This temple has sculptures on its exterior walls, columns, and inner ceiling. The door frame of the Garbhagriha is very well-wrought with Ganga and Yamuna images. There are also impressive figures of an amorous couple.

Aihole Timings

The temples can be visited from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm every day. If you are visiting with a guide, it will easily take up a full day in case you want to visit all the important temples and understand the sculptures. 

Aihole Ticket Price

Aihole entry fee is INR 35 for Indian Nationals and INR 300 for Foreign Nationals. There is no separate camera charge. 

How to Reach Aihole

Aihole has only a road network so it is easy to reach here by road. It does not have an airport or a railway station. The nearby railway stations are Bagalkot and Badami both located 34 km. Belgaum and Goa are the nearest airports located approximately 230km away from Aihole.

By Air

Aihole does not have an airport but the nearest airport is Belgaum and Goa which is 230km away from Aihole. Goa airport or Dabolim airport is an international airport that connects Goa from cities in India and abroad. One has to hire a taxi from the airport to reach Aihole. There are public buses available from Belgaum to reach Badami.

By Train

Aihole does not have a railway network but the nearest railway station is Bagalkot and Badami which is 34km away from Aihole. Bagalkot is well-connected with many cities though very few trains have a stop here.

By Road

Aihole does not have a bus station but buses come to nearby cities like Badami, Hubli, Bagalkot etc. Tourists can catch a taxi from there to reach Aihole. Pattadakal is connected with Aihole through National Highway No. 14.

Local transport in Aihole

Although Aihole is a village, the temples are located in many areas and it may be difficult to cover all of them on foot. It is best to hire a taxi or drive your own car. 

Where to Stay in Aihole

Aihole is a small village so there are no hotels or homestays. But Bagalkot has good accommodation options which are around 34km away from Aihole. Even Badami has good options. You can check out accommodation options from my post: Rock-cut Badami cave temples. Following are some of the options from Bagalkot.

Three Star-Hotels: Hotel Heritage Resort, Homestay Inn 

Budget Hotels: Hotel Priya International, Hotel Anugraha Deluxe, Hotel Chalukya Deluxe 

Best Time to Visit Aihole

The best time to visit the Aihole is October to March as the weather is very pleasant in these months and visitors can enjoy their time. The climate is mild to moderate cold in December and January. The period from April to September is hot and is not suitable to visit. Bagalkot receives less rainfall but is extremely hot and humid between June to September. However, you can expect lush green surroundings and gorgeous countryside during the monsoon.

Do’s and Don’ts to plan a trip 

• Aihole and its nearby areas are extremely hot and humid during the day. I visited in Mid-September which is monsoon and yet it was not pleasant. It is best to carry a cap/hat/stole and sunglasses. 
• Wear clothes that are loose, comfortable and sweat absorbing.
• Wear a pair of comfortable footwear as you will be walking a lot.
• Carry a bottle of water and some snacks for a quick hunger bite.
• Paying for Aiole entry fees by debit or credit cards comes with a discount as against cash.
• Photography and videography using drones or tripods is strictly prohibited at Aihole.

Sustainable tips for Aihole village

• Respect the ancient sculptures by not sitting on them. 
• Do not harm the sculptures by carving, writing or spitting on it.
• Dispose of garbage in the dustbins located at specific points.
• Treat these monuments with respect and do not use them for picnics.

Read More posts from Karnataka

• Aihole – The ancient temple town
• Mahakuta temples of Karnataka
• Rock-cut Badami cave temples
• All about Belgaum
• Things to do in Nirvana Beach, Kumta
• Coracle ride at Talakadu Beach
• Shivanasamudra Falls

Disclaimer – This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

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“Akka, you must visit Mahakuta Temples, you will love it” said my car driver having learned about my fascination for historical architecture while on the journey of historical sites of Badami, Pattakadal, and Aihole. 

After having visited the Badami Cave Temples, I was all gaga about the stunning designs of the sculptures, the precision of the equipment used, and the finishing touches on each carving.

He overheard my enthusiasm and being a local of Bagalkot district, he suggested a visit to the Mahakuta group of temples as it is known as the Dakshin Kashi. His last words struck me, although he did not know why it was called so.

But he promised I wouldn’t be disappointed and it was on the way to Aihole. I agreed and thus we began the journey from Badami to Mahakuta Temples at a distance of 15 km.

About Mahakuta Temples 

It was difficult to imagine what would be inside the complex from the car parking. A big gate opened onto a road with food stalls on both sides of it. With packaged wafer packets dangling on the shops and the noise of goli soda drink making a splash, a slight left into another gate opened a completely different world. 

Near the entrance of the gate, clothes lay flat on the road for drying. I gave a confused look to my car driver who decided to join us to pay respects at the Mahakuta temples. He asked me to be patient but I honestly did not know what to expect next!

I removed my footwear and entered inside another small gate. I was welcomed by the idol of Ganesha in black stone. I saw many devotees entering a temple complex and so without further ado, I walked straight into that temple structure. There were placards all around, not to click photographs in the temple. 

After paying my respects to the Shiva temple, I glanced around the many big and small temple structures in the complex. Now I know why Mahakuta temples are known as a group of temples.

My driver turned into a guide and told me that Mahakuta temples are locally known as the Chikka Mahakuteshwara Temple, and all the temples are dedicated to Bhagwan Shiva. The temple derived its name from Maha meaning ‘great’ and Kuta meaning ‘assembly’.

The assembly here is the numerous Shiva temples, justifying its name as Dakshin Kashi. Mahakuta is an important place of worship for Hindus and a holy pilgrimage for followers of Shaivism. The temple is located in the middle of a forest adjoining hills. The complex also houses many trees.

I kept getting distracted by some shouting noises and wondered if someone was in pain and scared of what was going on. My driver anna laughed and escorted me to a water tank where devotees gleefully jumped and bathed. They probably shouted as they were washing away all their sins!

Mythology associated with washing sins by dipping in holy waters

While the holy waters of River Ganga, are considered extremely pious, more specifically the Kashi Ghat of Varanasi is where people take a dip. River Ganga is an important river culturally and religiously for all Hindus. According to a legend, by taking a dip in Kashi (in this case North India), people can wash their sins away.

While there is a deeper meaning to washing sins away because it is practically impossible to let go of karma by dipping in a river, many devotees believe it and pay annual homage to River Ganga. In case you want to know the deeper meaning then check out this article – Can Holy Ganga wash away my sins?

Beliefs around Mahakuta temples 

Just like Kashi in North India, Mahakuta temples are known as the Dakshin Kashi since it lies in the southern state of India. Unlike the river in the north, the water tank in the Mahakuta temple is fed by a natural spring and is known to have healing properties as well as washing away sins. The water tank is known as Vishnu Puskarini, or Papavinasha Tirth, meaning a tank that washes away all your sins.

Mahakuta Temples Architecture

Mahakuta temples are dated to the 6th or 7th century and were constructed by the kings of the Chalukya dynasty of Badami. The temple had a lot of importance as the Chalukya rulers used to donate a lot of wealth after each war won against the neighboring kingdoms. According to a belief, Mahakuta is a sacred place as Agastya Rishi killed Vatapi and Ilvala.

The dating of the temples is based on the style of architecture which is similar to that of the temples in nearby Aihole and the information in two notable inscriptions in the complex: the Mahakuta Pillar inscription dated between 595–602 CE and an inscription of Vinapoti, a concubine of king Vijayaditya, dated between 696–733 CE and written in the Kannada language and script.

In a corner of Vishnu Puskarini, devotees can reach another Shivling through a narrow channel. One can completely get submerged to cross this channel and can stand on the other side to pray. This small shrine can accommodate 2-3 devotees at once. At one side of the water tank, there is also a small gazebo that houses the four-faced linga. 

It is believed that the temples dedicated to Pinakinata in the north, Rama Linga in the east, Kapilesa in the south, and Mallikarjuna in the west protect Mahakuta temples.

Mahakuteswara Temple

Mahakuteswara is the main temple built in Dravidian style and the only renovated and largest temple among the Mahakuta group of temples. The other dozen small temples are built in Nagara style. All the temples have curvilinear towers over the sanctum. Each temple has the Shivling – a votary object that symbolizes the god Shiva.

The temple consists of a porch contained within a later extension, a mandapa, and a towered sanctuary surrounded by a passageway. The outer walls have finely carved episodes from the war as well as carving of gods and goddesses. The four pillars here are square and massive and are in Chalukyan style. A natya mandapa is at the center. Two pillars of the mukhamantapa have inscriptions.

How to reach Mahakuta Temples

Mahakuta is situated around 460 Km from Bangalore, 15 km from Badami, and 10 km from Pattadakal. The Mahakuta group of temples is located in between Badami and Pattadakal.

By Road

One can reach Mahakuta by taking a local bus from Badami.

By Air

The nearest airport is Hubli Airport, about 120 km away, or Belgaum airport that is 270 km away.

By Rail

Badami is the nearest station, about 15 km away from the Mahakuta temples. Mahakuta can be reached by taking the local bus service from the station.

Best time to visit Mahakuta group of temples

Literature inscribed near the Vishnu Pushkarini states that having a dip in its waters on Lalit Poornima day of Vaisakh month (May month in English calendar) is equal in meri to a long penance undertaken in Kashi. It is also believed that Theerthodbhava (gushing of water) occurs in Mahakuta temple on the occasion of Buddha Jayanti in October similar to the event in Talacauvery of Kodagu.

Summers could be difficult for visitors due to heat and humidity which is at its peak. Monsoon would still have humidity and make the visit uncomfortable. The best season to visit Mahakuta is in winter when it is pleasant to visit all the temples in the Bagalkot area.

Accommodation in Mahakuta

Being a small village, there are no hotels or homestays near Mahakuta. Since most devotees combine their trip with Badami, it is better to stay in Badami and do a road trip that can be completed within half a day.

Sustainable travel tips to visit Mahakuta Temples

• Being an ancient pilgrimage site, respect the structures by not sitting on them. I saw the locals who had used the temple [orch for storing their belongings while they took a bath in the water tank or for drying clothes and I felt really sad as this does not maintain the sanctity of the religious place.
• Like every Hindu temple, devotees are not allowed to wear shoes. Please remove footwear even while entering smaller shrines.
• Do not enter places which are closed off, and always follow the directions given by the temple security.
• Keep your mobile phone away while entering the temple sanctum.
• Throw your garbage in the dustbins located at the entrance of the temple.

Read More posts from Karnataka

• Aihole – The ancient temple town
• Rock-cut Badami cave temples
• All about Belgaum
• Things to do in Nirvana Beach, Kumta

Do Indian temples fascinate you? Read about Trimbakeshwar Temple, a jyotirlinga or Kamakhya Temple that is dedicated to menstruation and fertility, or Chidambaram Nataraja Temple dedicated to the art of dancing. 

Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

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If you have read my previous article about exploring the heritage sites of Badami, Pattadakal, and Aihole while I was a tourist in Belgaum, I am now writing in detail about Badami cave temples. On my day trip to explore these rich historic sites, Badami was the first place to explore.

History of Badami Caves Temple Architecture

Badami also known as Vatapi in the earlier centuries was founded by Chalukya King Pulakesi I in the 6th century.

Badami was the capital of the early Chalukyas. The dynasty ruled over the entire Deccan plateau for 200 years. The Chalukya dynasty has been very important to India as they were the patrons of architecture and art.

Although Chalukyan architecture originated in Aihole around the mid-4th century, it extended to the neighbouring villages of Badami and Pattadakal. Their style of architecture is known as a blend of the Indo-Aryan Nagara and Dravidian styles. 

The architecture of Badami has the most innovative designs that are mind-boggling. From rock-cut architecture to structural architecture, ornamented with magnificent carvings, rock-cut Badami caves of Karnataka are a must-visit.

Nearly a hundred monuments built by Chalukyas are found in the Malaprabha river basin in the Bagalkot district of northern Karnataka.

The rocks of Badami are sandstones. According to another legend, Badami got its name from the Badam (almond) color of the sandstone.

Places to visit in Badami

The entire Badami town paints a pretty picture with the hills, lake, temples, and everything in between.

There are mainly 5 attractions to see in Badami – Cave Temples, Agastya Lake, Bhoothanatha temple, Northern Hill & Badami Fort, and Archeological Museum.

All these attractions are located close to each other and can be covered by walking. To see all of these places in detail, it is best to plan a one-day trip to Badami.

Badami Cave Temples

Visitors arriving by car or by train cannot miss the elevated cliffs that are prominent to the town. An auto-rickshaw from the train or bus station will drop you near the cliffs on the south of Agastya lake. These sandstone cliffs overlook the entire Badami town and the lake. 

There are a total of 4 cave temples in Badami. Recently, the fifth cave with 27 rock carvings has been discovered at Badami by a team of archaeologists. While the first three caves are dedicated to the Hindu gods, the last cave is dedicated to Jain deities. Every cave has exquisite carvings done on walls, pillars, and ceilings with motifs and statues of Indian gods and goddesses. 

Although Badami caves are temples, worship or offer does not take place here. There is no priest available like in a typical Hindu temple. These are simply heritage monuments. 

After parking the car, buy an entry ticket from the counter at the gate and proceed further to climb about 30 steps to reach the first cave at Badami. Each cave is separated by elevation that needs to be climbed with steps. The steps between cave 2 and cave 3 are particularly difficult as they are high. 

I could probably write a separate post on the ceiling of Badami caves and walls of Badami caves because each sculpture has a story behind it!

Badami Caves entry fee: INR 25 for Indian Nationals and INR 300 for Foreign Nationals

Badami Cave timings: 9 am to 6 pm

First Cave at Badami temple

The first Badami cave is dedicated to Bhagwan Shiva.

The cave is divided into three parts: a verandah, a pillared hall and a garbhagriha or sanctum sanctorum.

The first and foremost sculpture to capture the eye is the magnificently ornamented 18-armed Nataraja also known as the Dancing Shiva. The pose is said to be striking 81 simultaneous dance poses. I have already visited the Chidambaram Nataraja Temple in Tamil Nadu so watching this pose was extremely special for me.

Other important carvings in this cave are a two-handed Ganesha, Mahishasura Mardini (statue of Durga killing the demon Mahishasura), Ardhanarishwara and Shankara Narayana. Ardhanarishwara meaning half-woman lord is the fusion of Bhagwan Shiva and Parvati Devi.

This carving was particularly intriguing because one of the figures having skeletal legs. This carving is of Bhringi, an ancient sage who was cursed by Parvati which is why he lost the muscles in his legs.

I will probably do a photo story on Badami Cave ceilings as they are sure to leave the visitors stunned with the design and precision of the carvings. A carving that is particularly eye-catching is of the serpent king or Nagaraja.

Once inside the hall of the cave, there is an altar with a Shivling, the phallic emblem of Shiva. A stone representation of Nandi, the bull that served as the god’s mount, is placed in front.

Second cave at Badami temple

Climb around 60 steps to reach the second caves of Badami.

One cannot miss the pot-bellied figures on the cave plinths as one enters the cave. This cave is believed to have been commissioned in the late 6th or early 7th century. It has been sculpted from a boulder that is almost double the height of the first cave temple.

This Badami cave is dedicated to Bhagwan Vishnu and the carvings in this cave are depicted in various forms in magnificent panels carved onto the end walls of the front veranda.

The most eye-dazzling sculpture here is that of Vishnu Bhagwan as Trivikrama. The story behind this sculpture is that Bhagwan Vishnu appeared in the form of Vamana to free the world from Mahabali, a demon king. In the earlier days, any person could seek an offering and the king would grant it.

Similarly, Vamana sought land from the demon king. The land on which he took three steps would be his. The king laughing agreed. Vamana then turned himself into a giant known as Trivikrama and took three steps – one covering the entire Earth, the second covering Heaven, and the third covering the head of Demon King Mahabali thereby pushing him into hell.

On the opposite side is the beautiful sculpture depicting Vishnu Bhagwan in his Varaha (boar) avatar rescuing goddess Earth (Bhudevi) from the depths of the cosmic ocean, with a penitent multi-headed Naga (snake) below. 

The ceilings in this cave are extremely delicate. There is a Swastika that has sculptures of couples in courtship, some of them in erotic poses. Another sculpture on the ceiling is 16 fishes as spokes of wheels.

All the Vishnu sculptures reminded me of my visit to Modhera Sun Temple.

Third cave at Badami

After climbing another 60 steps, facing the beautiful Agastya lake is the third cave. A troop of monkeys welcomed me to this giant cave.

This third Badami cave temple, also dedicated to Vishnu, is the largest and has the most ornamented sculptures of the four caves. Believed to be created in the 5th century, this cave is about 15ft high and supported by 3 rows of six pillars. The cave stands raised on a plinth divided by seven columns. Each of the pillars contains magnificent pieces of art. 

This cave has intricately carved friezes and giant figures of Trivikrama, Anantasayana, Vasudeva, Varaha, Harihara, and Narasimha. It also has fresco paintings on the ceiling, which are among the earliest known surviving evidence of fresco painting in Indian art.

Talking about frescos, I highly recommend reading about: Frescos of Tambekar Wada, Vadodara

The cave has a large image of Bhagwan Vishnu seated on a coiled cosmic serpent, Adisesha. He also appears in his man-lion incarnation, with the head of a ferocious animal, leaning on a club; and in yet a third appearance the god is with one leg kicked high, pacing out the three steps as Trivikrama just like in the second cave. There are smaller carved images of Indra on his elephant, Brahma on a swan and Shiva riding the bull, on the ceiling.

This cave has angled brackets supporting the beams which are ornamented with sculptures of human couples in erotic postures, posed beneath flowering trees.

Fourth cave at Badami

The last of the Badami caves is also the smallest.

It is believed to be constructed after the first three caves, in the 7th century. Like the other caves, Cave 4 features detailed carvings and a diverse range of motifs.

Dedicated to the Jain religion, the walls are covered with standing and seated tirthankaras and the sanctum holds a sculpture of Adinath, the first Jain tirthankara.

On entering the cave, on the left, is the sculpture of Bahubali, standing in a meditative posture with vines wrapped around his leg. Bahubali was a prince who attained the stature of a perfected being (siddha).

Although never admitted to the pantheon of twenty-four tirthankaras, he attained jina-like status. The legend of Bahubali tells of a prince who renounces violence after coming close to slaying his brother Bharata in a battle of succession and then renounces pride and its expression – violence to other living creatures.

Embracing ahimsa (nonviolence), he meditates in the “body-abandonment” posture in a forest, where he is entwined by vines and hosts birds that nest in his hair until he attains moksha.

On the right, just opposite the Bahubali image, there is a sculpture of Parshwanath, with a multi-hooded cobra rising over its head.

The carvings on the pillars are different here from the other cave temples. The first row features floral motifs along with circular carvings of amorous couples. The second row of pillars features detailed carvings of Bhagwan Mahavira embedded into a surrounding carving depicting a gate of sorts. 

Sunset in Badami from this cave is spectacular if you happen to stay till evening.

Agastya Lake at Badami

From the courtyards of the third and fourth caves, the crystal clear waters of Agastya Lake are alluring. The lake bank is dotted with Bhoothanatha and Yellamma temples. During the monsoon, the water plunges from a rocky ledge into the tank named after the sage Agastya Muni, who is said to have once meditated by a sacred pond on the cliffs above. 

The lake water is believed to have curative powers as it cured the then king’s leprosy. 

Although the locals wash clothes and even bathe in them, the parapet around the lake is filled with coloured clothes left for drying. In Spite of this, the lake looks inviting to sit at its bank breathing in the magnificence of architecture.

Archeological Museum, Badami

Beyond the caves, past the Agastya Lake stands the Archaeological Museum with beautiful exhibits and relics from the bygone era. It houses a collection of stone sculptures, prehistoric artefacts, art, and inscriptions from Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal. 

The preserved panels of the Krishna Leela are a highlight as they depict scenes from the Ramayana, the Mahabharata, and the Bhagavad Gita.

Timings: 9 am – 5 pm

Entry Fee: INR 10 per person

Bhutanatha group of Temples Badami

At the far end of Agastya Lake, lies the famous Bhoothanatha Temple. It takes around 15-20 minutes to reach the temple by walking from the rock-cut Badami Caves. The location of the temple is very scenic with the large sandstone cliffs forming a stunning backdrop. In monsoon, two waterfalls come alive through the cliffs feeding water to the lake and creating enchanting scenery. 

Another temple nearby is the Mallikarjuna Temple not very far from the Bhoothanatha Temple Badami.

Northern Hill and Badami Fort

Housing the Badami Fort and two ancient temples, Northern Hill is the offbeat place to visit in Badami. A small trek (30-45 minutes) is required to reach the top. It’s a fairly easy trek with well-laid steps between towering sandstone cliffs.

The first temple on the hill is called the Lower Shivalaya and then the temple at the top is called the Upper Shivalaya. There is a circular watchtower, a storeroom for ammunition, and towering rows of granaries near the Upper Shivalaya. Built by Pulakeshi II, a devout Viashnavite, the Upper Shivalaya is capped by a Dravidian pyramidal tower. Stone elephants and lion heads adorn the corner pieces of the temple steps and the outer walls have carvings depicting mythological stories.

How to reach Badami?

By Air

The nearest airport to Badami is Hubli at 105 km and Belgaum at about 150 km. Both are domestic airports that have regular connections to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, and others. Bus, train and even private cars can be hired to reach Badami. The nearest International airport is in Bengaluru. 

By Train

Badami station is located 5 km from the Badami caves. Most trains passing through Bengaluru, Bijapur, Hubli, and Solapur are connected to Badami. From the station at Badami, you can board a local bus to reach the bus stand and then hire an auto-rickshaw to reach the hotel or the caves directly.

By Road

Badami is well connected to most major cities and towns in Karnataka. There are state-run Volvo and AC sleeper buses to Badami from Bengaluru, Hubli, Bijapur, Dharwad, and Belgaum to Badami. Self-drive is also possible as there is a fairly good state highway.

Getting around in Badami

There is a lot to see in Badami if you are spending an entire day in Badami. If self-driven, then reaching these places is not a problem. Although most places can be reached on foot, visitors can also hire auto-rickshaws.

Accommodation in Badami | Where to stay in Badami

If you are reaching by train, then booking a hotel would be required. If you are on the Badami-Aihole-Pattadakal trail then spending a night in Badami is the best option as the Badami town is big in comparison to Aihole and Pattadakal. 

There are many hotels in the main town and it is best to book a room in advance. Most accommodation in Badami is in the economical category.

Clarks Inn, Badami is a comfortable option for a couple. Another option is KSTDC Hotel Mayura Chalukya, Badami which is owned by the Karnataka Government. In case a big group wants a comfortable stay then hiring a comfortable villa is the best option. 

Agastya Villa has 3 bedrooms with ample space in common areas such as a terrace, verandah, and hall. There is a kitchen to cook or have cooked by a resident cook. This villa can accommodate up to 10 people.

Best time to visit Badami Caves

The best time to visit Badami Caves is in the winters (November – March) as the summers are extremely harsh. Bagalkot district gets less rain so the monsoon season is hot and humid. It becomes very difficult to walk and trek in such uncomfortable weather.

Badami caves open at 9 am and are thronged by one-day trip visitors. If you are spending the night in Badami, it is ideal to explore other places in Badami and then visit the caves post noon. The past noon light also enters the caves and lights up the sculptures that are in the dark during morning hours.

Do’s and Don’ts to plan a trip to Badami cave temples 

• Badami town and its nearby areas are extremely hot and humid during the day. I visited in Mid-September which is monsoon and yet it was not pleasant. It is best to carry a cap/hat/stole and sunglasses. 
• Wear clothes that are loose, comfortable and sweat absorbing.
• Wear a pair of comfortable footwear as you will climb approximately 200 steps and walk a lot around the tourist attraction in Badami.
• Carry a bottle of water and some snacks for a quick hunger bite. Keep the snacks tucked in a bag so as not to be visible to the resident monkeys. They will snatch it away!
• Paying for Badami entry fees by debit or credit cards comes with a discount as against cash.
• Photography and videography using drones or tripods is strictly prohibited at rock-cut Badami cave temples so do not lug them with you while visiting.

Sustainable tips for Badami cave temples

• Respect the sculptures by not sitting on them. 
• Do not harm the sculptures by carving, writing or spitting on it.
• Do not enter places which are closed off, there’s a reason why they are closed.
• Dispose of garbage in the dustbins located at specific points.
• Treat these monuments with respect and do not use them for picnics.

Read More posts from Karnataka

• Aihole – The ancient temple town
• Mahakuta temples of Karnataka
• All about Belgaum
• Things to do in Nirvana Beach, Kumta
• Coracle ride at Talakadu Beach
• Shivanasamudra Falls

Disclaimer – This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

Pin this post!

The post Rock-cut Badami cave temples of Karnataka appeared first on Explore with Ecokats.