Architectural Marvels Of Aihole, Pattadakkal and Badami Caves

Embarking on a family trip to Aihole from Hubli was nothing short of extraordinary.

Prior to reaching Hubli, we faced the challenge of securing a flight due to limited options. As a solution we booked a flight from Mumbai to Belgaum, the nearest available airport. Fortunately, we stumbled upon Star Air, which provided a remarkable flying experience reminiscent of a chartered flight. After landing in Belgaum, we embarked on a smooth two hour drive to Hubli where my uncle’s residence awaited us for a luxurious and enjoyable stay.

After landing in Belgaum one can also opt to drive straight to Aihole without the need to stop over in Hubli. The journey to Aihole takes about 3 hours. The roads are smooth, making the drive enjoyable and hassle free. Spending three nights in Aihole provides the perfect opportunity to immerse oneself in the exploration of its magnificent temples, as well as nearby attractions such as Pattadakkal and the Badami Caves. Aihole serves as a central hub for delving into the rich tapestry of ancient Hindu architecture that graces the region.

Aihole

Aihole in Karnataka, India, is renowned as the “Cradle of Indian Architecture”. It served as a major center for temple construction and experimentation during the Chalukya dynasty, particularly between the 4th and 12th centuries CE. It boasts a staggering number of around 125 ancient temples, each with its own unique architectural style and historical significance.

One of the most notable landmarks in Aihole is the Durga Temple known for its unique and fascinating architecture. Other prominent temples include the Lad Khan Temple, the Meguti Jain Temple and the Ravavaphadi Cave temple, each offering insights into the evolution of temple architecture that thrived during the Chalukyan period.

Wada 1, A Boutique Hotel

Finding a great hotel in Aihole can be tough, but my uncle owns a fantastic boutique hotel called ‘Wada 1″. It’s got twenty three cozy rooms, each with its own special design for maximum comfort. The hotel has a small courtyard reminiscent of ancient homes in India. The restaurant serves delicious local food. Spending three nights here is a great idea as you can explore nearby places like Badami Caves and Pattadakal, relax and enjoy some good reads. The vistas from the top of the hotel offer glimpses of rural India, while the road leading to the hotel is lined with village dwellings. It’s a genuine slice of diverse India which has its own set of pros and cons. Wada 1 seamlessly integrates with the architectural charm of its surroundings offering guests a truly immersive experience in the region’s heritage.

Durga Temple, Aihole

A ten minute walk from Wada 1 is the Durga temple which was earlier known as the sun temple dedicated to Surya. The temple faces East and is meticulously aligned with the path of the sun rays, a characteristic feature shared by many ancient sun temples across India. It was constructed in the 7th or 8th century during the Chalukya dynasty reign. Its unique design is a blend of Dravidian and Nagara styles of architecture, showcasing a fascinating fusion of influences. The temple is built on a raised platform and consists of a sanctum, a mandapa(hall) and an entrance hall. The temple does enshrine an image of Goddess Durga, though it is not solely dedicated to her. The temple is also dedicated to Lord Vishnu but it derives its name from Durgadagudi meaning ‘temple near the fort’.

The walls are adorned with elaborate sculptures depicting various deities, celestial beings, mythical creatures, and scenes from Hindu mythology. Hiring a guide is essential, as the narratives depicted on the walls are exemplary. With a knowledgeable guide, we were able to uncover amazing stories and gain insights that will help you understand the layers of history and symbolism woven into walls. They offer a glimpse into the advanced thinking of ancient times, with stories that resonate even today. These intricate carvings serve as timeless reminders of our shared humanity and the enduring relevance of age-old wisdom.

Badami Caves

The Badami Caves are approximately 15 kms from Aihole making them easily accessible for a day from the hotel. The Badami Caves, are a group of rock-cut cave temples dating back to the 6th century. The caves represent a blend of Hindu, Jain and Buddhist influences.

There are four main cave temples carved out of the sandstone cliffs surrounding the lake. The first three caves are dedicated to Hindu deities, with cave one dedicated to Lord Shiva, Cave 2 and 3 dedicated to Lord Vishnu and various other deities. Cave 4 is a Jain temple featuring sculptures of Jain Tirthankaras and other Jain deities. The caves too are built by the Chalukyan rulers who with their remarkable craftsmanship, architecture and engineering have left an amazing mark on the landscape of ancient India.

Pattadakkal

Pattadakal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another remarkable gem crafted by the Chalukyan rulers. Located just a short distance from Aihole, this complex is quite mesmerising. It was chosen as the coronation site due to its auspicious location and divine blessings. It was considered to be a sacred site for royal ceremonies. Each temple at Pattadakkal tells its own story through intricately carved structures depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, epic tales and royal processions. As we wandered through its hallowed precincts it continued to wow-us with its enchanting narratives on wonderful pieces of architecture.

Pattadakal also served as a center for cultural exchange. The presence of both Hindu and Jain temples within the complex speak about the harmonious coexistence of these diverse faiths and the spirit of tolerance that pervaded in ancient India. There are a total of nine Hindu temples and one Jain temple.

Donning sunglasses and a cap is absolutely essential when exploring these temples as the region gets very hot during the day. For a more pleasant and comfortable experience, consider visiting during the cooler months from December to February. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture buff or an avid tourist, a trip to this region is a must-do for anyone exploring India

If I had a genie granting wishes, my one wish would be to zap myself straight into the glory days of the Chalukyan rulers! Picture myself strolling through fancy halls, soaking up the vibes and feeling like royalty as I marvelled at their jaw dropping temples. Like me being right there in the middle of all that epic architecture, geeking out over the insane skills of those ancient artisans. Seriously, living it up in that kind of history would be fascinating!

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