Suppose you want to get a reminder of India’s rich history, culture, tradition, and diversity. In that case, there is no best place than Badami Caves. Badami Caves are the best example of Indian rock-cut architecture. Badami Caves is the best place to witness the combination and blend of history, art, religion, and spirituality.
If you want to feel the calmness and tranquillity with the spiritual vibes and that too with the interest and curiosity of learning about India’s magnificent history, then trust me, Badami Caves are the best option to consider. The innovative construction technique used in the caves is capable enough to mesmerize and steal your heart. Badami Caves perfectly reflects the Chalukya style of architecture.
The amazing and mesmerizing Badami Caves are believed to be constructed in the 6th Century. These caves are situated in Balakot, a district in Karnataka. At the north and south of the Badami Caves, there lie many forts belonging to the later kings of the Chalukya dynasty and some other rulers of that period. Like a cherry on the top, the caves are surrounded by the ringed lake from the aside, the banks of which are made of an earthen wall fixed with stone steps.
Also, the temples lie within the caves, which makes it even more positive and spiritual. The beautiful river of Malaprabha has been transformed into an inspiration of Hindu architectural style. There are several caves scattered all around the area, which makes it a beholding site.
The first four caves are situated on the steep slope of the hills, and so many new caves are situated around the lake. Most of the caves epitomize Hindu divinity. You can find the carvings of Lord Shiva in the Tandava mudra with some amazing and interesting mythological stories from his life. Also, many spiritual stories concerning Vishnu and other Hindu deities find their place in the Beautiful and majestic Badami Caves. However, some of the recently discovered caves are dedicated to Buddhism and Jainism to propagate their teachings.
HISTORY OF THE BADAMI CAVES
Badami Caves comprise so many temples, and all are arranged according to a chronological order of their formation. There are four primary caves in the Badami caves. The attribution of these primary caves goes to the kings of the Chalukya dynasty. As per the shreds of geographical shreds of evidence found, it is believed that the caves have been constructed around the 6th Century. However, exact dates are still not known except that of cave 3.
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Visiting the Badami Caves, you will be able to witness so many inscriptions on the caves. Among those inscriptions, only in cave 3 is there a mention of a king named Manglesha. Moreover, the Badami Caves are considered the oldest firmly dated Hindu caves in the country.
The beauty of the Badami caves lies in its soft Badami sandstone that gives it a mesmerizing auburn hue. Also, don’t forget to climb to the terrace of the caves as the picturesque view from there of the whole Bagalkot city. Even each cave in Badami Caves has its own architectural plan for its temples. There is a small porch that leads to the mandapa and then to the sanctum or garbha. The caves are, in simple words, spectacular and mesmerizing.
PLACES TO VISIT NEAR BADAMI CAVES
Except for Badami Caves, there are so many other amazing places near the Badami caves that deserve to be on your list if you are planning to visit Badami Caves. Let’s have a look at them-
AGASTYA LAKE
Agastya Lake is one of the major tourist attractions and is situated near the Badami Caves. The lake is surrounded by red sandstone temples. The lake has everything to offer, from pleasing scenes, serenity to rejuvenation and calmness. The Lake is a perfect getaway for relaxation and learning the history of Badami. You can have a stroll on the bank of the Badami river or just witness the sunrise.
ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM
Another amazing place to pay a visit near Badami Caves is Archaeological Museum. This museum of Badami Caves depicts almost every possible historical tale associated with the Badami Caves and temples. The museum has some amazing and enchanting galleries and open-air exhibits that will leave you spellbound. The museum will definitely give you a wider glimpse of the prehistoric culture of India.
BADAMI FORT
How can one miss the Badami Fort? The beautiful Badami Fort has a lot to say about India’s history, culture, and traditions. It is believed to be constructed by Tipu Sultan. The Badami Fort sits at the top of the hills. Hence, the fort offers a great watchtower to experience the beauty of the site. The extensively decorated pillars and corridors of the fort are a sight to behold. However, the fort stands in ruins now but is still a perfect spot to witness the history and Indology.
BANASHANKARI TEMPLE
Banashankari Temple is one of the holiest shrines in Karnataka. The temple is the perfect place to experience serenity and divinity. The temple is the perfect place to offer prayers to the Hindu deity Rahu Kala. A holy lake surrounds the temple too. The temple is a perfect place to meditate in peace and grand complex.
