Travel Guide Badami

Former capital of the first Chalukya kingdom, Badami is known for its rich history and prestigious monuments, some of which date back to the 6th and 7th centuries. The Chalukya laid the foundation for a unique architectural tradition, a harmonious blend of the Nagara style of northern India and the Dravidian style of the south. The masterpieces left at Badami by the Chalukya influenced the later architecture and statuary of this region. Badami, once called Vatapi, is beautifully situated at the end of a ravine between two rocky hills. Temples carved in the rock, portals, forts, inscriptions, sculptures that seem to come to life before your eyes..., Badami has to be seen to be believed. A few steps lead to cave temples carved in the red sandstone rock, on the cliff side. There are four of them: the first three belong to the Vedic faith, the fourth is the only Jain temple in Badami. Nearby is the Agastyatirtha tank, from the5th century, dotted with Bhutanatha temples dedicated to Shiva. A path from the archaeological museum leads to a hilltop temple and a view from the remains of the fort. The charming little village at the foot of the monument is also worth a visit.