Badami is located in Karnataka and has numerous attractive temples that tell fascinating historical and cultural stories. This was the capital of the Chalukya dynasty, and the town is famous for the rock-cut cave temples and structural temples that were created from the 6th to the 8th century. In this blog, look at eight incredible temples in Badami, where you can glimpse this beautiful place’s cultural and architectural past.
Discover The Ancient Temples In Badami: A Journey Through Time
Here is the list of the best temples to visit in Badami, where you can find inner peace and calmness in a serene place.
1. Badami Cave Temples
Image Credit: P4psk for Wikipedia
Badami Cave Temple contains four structures carved into the face of the sandstone hill. These temples are of Hindu and Jain architectural style and are dedicated to Hindu deities and Jain Tirthankaras. The first three caves are devoted to Hindus, and the fourth belongs to the Jains. The intricate carvings on the walls, door frames, and windows, as well as the beautiful sculptures of Lord Shiva, Vishnu, and Mahavira, adorn the structure and testify to the Chalukyan style. The prime attraction of these caves is the 18-armed Nataraja – the sculpture which illustrates the dancing image of Lord Shiva. These caves have different styles and forms and are worth visiting for fans of history and architecture. In addition to presenting an opportunity to study prehistoric paintings, the caves provide a picturesque view of the Agastya Lake and majestic hills, thereby improving the overall experience.
Location: Badami, Karnataka 587201
Opening Time: The temples open at 9:00 AM.
Closing Time: The temples close at 5:30 PM.
Must Read: Hulimavu Cave Temple
2. Bhutanatha Temple
Image Credit: Gs9here for Wikipedia
The temple of Bhutanatha, built in the early Chalukyan style, is a magnificent structure built to house Lord Shiva in the form of Bhutanatha. This temple is constructed with sandstone and appears to be perched on the waters of the Agastya Lake. The temple includes the main sanctum and several subsidiary shrines with elaborate ornamentation and intricate carvings. This area seems perfect for taking pictures and meditating due to its serene atmosphere and the temple’s reflection in the water. The temple looks absolutely beautiful during dawn and dusk because the morning light’s hues and the evening’s shades give the stone architecture a golden hint.
Location: WMCQ+837, Badami, Karnataka 587201
Opening Time: The temple opens at 8:00 AM.
Closing Time: The temple closes at 6:00 PM.
3. Mallikarjuna Temple
Image Credit: Dineshkannambadi for Wikimedia Commons
The Lower Shivalaya, or Mallikarjuna Temple, is one of the temples located inside the compound of the Badami Fort. This is a Temple for Lord Shiva, built in the Dravidian style of architecture. It has a sanctum, a vestibule, and a porch, all adorned with artistic carvings and statues, and the walls and pillars display several gods and legends of Hindu mythology. The temple inside the fort provides a vantage view of the adjacent landscape, such as the Agastya Lake and the Badami Cave Temples. Any tourist interested in visiting Badami cannot overlook the combination of the landscaped and architectural prowess evident at Mallikarjuna Temple.
Location: WMCP+954, Badami, Karnataka 587201
Opening Time: The temple opens at 6:00 AM.
Closing Time: The temple closes at 6:00 PM.
Suggested Read: Bull Temple
4. Shri Malgatti Shiva Gudi
Malgatti Shiva Gudi, a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, is in a very scenic location, and it is built on a hill, which adds to the spiritual environment. A tiny sanctum with a Shiva Linga, a vestibule, and a colossal open pillared hall with intricate designs and mythological Hindu motifs are the most characteristic features of the early Chalukyan style. It has elevated seating, which provides an excellent view of Badami and the surrounding rocky terrains, making it a perfect meditation retreat. The temple is also a preferred destination for watching the sunrise and sunset because of the expansive view of the surrounding landscape, which makes the experience more serene and refreshing. This is an ancient temple that is worth a visit due to its architectural design and tranquillity.
Location: WMFJ+FMM, Badami, Karnataka 587201
Opening Time: The temple opens at 6:00 AM.
Closing Time: The temple closes at 6:00 PM.
5. Jambulinga Temple
Image Credit: G41rn8 for Wikimedia Commons
The Jambulinga Temple, the other masterpiece belonging to the Chalukya dynasty, houses Lord Shiva. The temple is well known for its delicate carvings, and its tower (shikhara) has a distinct architectural feature. This building is well designed in the Chalukyan style of architecture, with beautiful sculptures depicting gods and various legends carved on the temple’s walls. Jambulinga Temple is not very big compared to temples in Badami, but it is of great interest for history lovers and architectural lovers of temples. The layout and carving, as well as the designs of the temple alongside the tranquil environment in which the temple is surrounded, make it a perfect place of rest and meditation for anybody interested in the historical past and religious beliefs.
Location: WM9M+R4X, Old Badami, Badami, Karnataka 587201
Opening Time: The temple opens at 9:00 AM.
Closing Time: The temple closes at 5:00 PM.
Suggested Read: Shri Jagannath Temple Hyderabad
6. Yellamma Devi Gudi
Image Credit: Dineshkannambadi for Wikimedia Commons
Yellamma Devi Gudi is the temple devoted to Yellamma, the goddess of fertility and health in Karnataka. The temple remains an important place of worship, and many people from different parts of the state visit it. The temple’s construction is plain but attractive, and the principal temple enshrines the decorated idol of Goddess Yellamma. The temple has several shrines dedicated to other gods, which add to the holiness of the place. One of the main events is the Yellamma Jatra, which is celebrated yearly, during which thousands of people participate in rituals, processions, and performances. The Yellamma Devi Gudi is well known for its peaceful surroundings and religious importance; hence, it is an ideal place for anyone searching for a tranquil atmosphere for prayers and meditation. The environment of this temple is located near a natural and serene atmosphere that complements its infrastructure.
Location: WM9M+RP5, Badami Slums, Badami, Karnataka 587201
Opening Time: The temple opens at 5:00 AM.
Closing Time: The temple closes at 8:00 PM.
7. Hondadkatte Shri Anjaneya (Muddu Maruti) Gudi
Image Credit: Pramal for Wikimedia Commons
Hondadkatte Shri Anjaneya Gudi, also known as Muddu Maruti Gudi, is a famous temple of Lord Hanuman, popularly known as Muddu Maruti. The shrine is also renowned for its tranquillity; people use it as a place for prayer and meditation. The primary deity, Muddu Maruti, is an avatar of Lord Hanuman and is shown to be in a conventional sitting position. The temple’s structure reveals a minimalistic design and has a sanctum where the idol of Muddu Maruti is placed, along with a serene backyard. People go to this temple for prayer and meditation because the environment is quiet and peaceful. Nestled in the lap of nature and untouched by the busy vicinity of Badami, the temple’s charm adds to the beauty. Like other temples, Hondadkatte Shri Anjaneya Gudi is crowded during Hanuman Jayanti, whereby devotees flock to the temple for prayers and festivities.
Location: WMCM+8RG, Badami Slums, Badami, Karnataka 587201
Opening Time: The temple is open for 24 hours.
Suggested Read: Iskcon Vijayawada
8. Vishnu Gudi
The Vishnu Gudi or the Vishnu Temple is an architectural wonder that belongs to the early Chalukyan regimes. This temple is also one of those entirely devoted to Lord Vishnu, and the overall construction is rather elegant and the artworks rather detailed. It consists of a shrine, a sanctum, and a hall with pillars and detailed images and designs sculpted on them. This temple of Vishnu Gudi has inscriptions of different Vishnu avatars on the walls and paintings depicting various scenes from the Hindu epics. The atmosphere in this temple is peaceful, and the general structure of the building gives people a liberal feeling of relaxation. The temple has not undergone many changes and thus has retained most of its appearance and architectural design, which would help anyone to feel and understand some of the ancient structures from ancient India. One of the main reasons for the mystery and spiritual aura of the temple is that it is nestled amidst the rocky Badami region, offering visitors a spiritual and calm atmosphere.
Location: WMCQ+39R, Badami Rural, Badami, Karnataka 587201
Opening Time: The temple opens at 6:00 AM.
Closing Time: The temple closes at 6:00 PM.
Further Read: Temples In Karnataka
This historical city of Badami is laden with temples, and each one takes you through the architectural marvel and spiritualism period. Every temple here, from the finest example of the Badami Cave Temples to the peaceful aura of the Vishnu temple, depicts a history of architectural brilliance. These temples are eye-appealing and assist the people in enjoying the cultural and historical aspects of their trip to Karnataka. Badami’s temples are undoubtedly a must-see for every history and architecture lover and those eager to get closer to spirituality.
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Cover Image Credit: Dineshkannambadi for Wikipedia
Frequently Asked Questions About Temples In Badami
Which among the temples in Badami are considered to be the most popular?
The main places of interest are the Badami Cave Temple, Bhutanatha Temple, Mallikarjuna Temple, and the ancient Vishnu Temple. The beauty of these sites is that they represent the best of Chalukyan architecture and rich history.
What is the appropriate time of the year to visit the temples in Badami?
The most favourable to visit temples in Badami is during the cool-humid period of the year, that is from December to March. This period is characterized by pleasant weather, which allows the visitors to enjoy their trip to Badami.
Is it possible to arrange for a guided tour of the temples in Badami?
Yes, it is possible to take a guided tour of the temples in Badami . You can arrange guided tours from local travel agents who can provide a lot of insights about the temples in Badami.
How much does it cost for a normal adult to visit the temples in Badami?
Generally, there is no entry fee in most of the temples present in Badami. However, there is a nominal entrance fee for the Badami Cave Temples and some other historic sites to maintain the sites.
What is the appropriate dress code when visiting the temples in Badami?
It is recommended that visitors should dress decently with their shoulders and knee areas adequately covered. It is also advisable that one wears comfortable shoes as several of the temples require a lot of walking and, at times, some climbing.
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