
Hampi Badami tour
North Karnataka is home to a remarkable array of historical monuments, each with a story dating back to the 5th century. This region was once a stronghold for Kannada empires that reigned over the Deccan plateau. Among these, the Badami Chalukyas created enduring architectural wonders in places like Pattadakal, Aihole, and Badami.
Virupaksha Temple: Located in Hampi within the Vijayanagara district of Karnataka, the Virupaksha Temple is part of the Group of Monuments at Hampi, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This temple is a dedicated homage to Sri Virupaksha, a revered form of Shiva. Its stunning architecture and rich history attract visitors from all over the world.
Badami Cave: The Badami cave temples, situated in the town of Badami, are a complex of Hindu and Jain cave temples. These remarkable caves are prime examples of Indian rock-cut architecture, particularly the Badami Chalukya architectural style. Some of these caves date as far back as the 6th century.
Aihole: Aihole, also known as Aivalli, Ahivolal, or Aryapura, is a historic site hosting ancient and medieval-era Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain monuments in Karnataka. These monuments span from the 6th through the 12th century CE, showcasing the evolution of architectural styles over centuries.
Pattadakal: Renowned as Raktapura, Pattadakal is home to a complex of 7th and 8th-century CE Hindu and Jain temples. These temples are a testament to the grandeur of the past and the artistic achievements of the region.
Queen’s Bath: Situated close to the entrance of the Royal Enclosure in Hampi, the Queen's Bath is believed to have been constructed by Achyuta Raya for the royal women of the Vijayanagara Empire. This Indo-Islamic-style building features a simple exterior and an ornate interior. It is a rectangular structure surrounded by ornate balconies with sets of three windows.
Lotus Mahal: Located within the Zenana Enclosure, a secluded area reserved for the royal ladies of the Vijayanagara Empire, the Lotus Mahal is a striking architectural masterpiece. Its design resembles a lotus flower from the top, with archways shaped like lotus petals and a central dome carved in the shape of a lotus bud.
Coracle Ride: Coracles, traditional round boats made of bamboo and plastic, have been used from the times of the Vijayanagara Empire to transport people across the Tungabhadra River. These boats can carry a maximum of 6-8 people and offer a delightful way to explore the region, with stops to visit nearby temples.
Vithala Temple: The most impressive structure in Hampi, the Vithala Temple, dating back to the 16th century, is a magnificent example of rich architecture. Its iconic stone chariot, situated within the temple premises, has become an emblem of Hampi's architectural splendor.
North Karnataka's historical and architectural wealth is showcased through these iconic sites, each a testament to the region's cultural and artistic evolution over the centuries.