A Cultural & Heritage Travel Guide on Badami

How To Explore Badami for Heritage and History?

We are pleased that you are considering visiting Badami as your next cultural destination. Although it is a less-visited historical site by mainstream travellers, a visit can be refreshing and fulfilling. This 5th-century town is approximately 160 km from Hubli and 500 km from the state capital, Bangalore. If you plan to travel from Goa, you can reach the destination in just 5 hours (250 km). Besides the famous caves and temples, the surrounding landscape, reminiscent of a Wild West movie set, is also strangely beautiful.

The modern history of Badami begins with the Chalukya dynasty, which used the town as their capital. You can see Chalukyan influence and Dravidian traits in the cave temples carved into the rocky cliffs, which now amaze visitors with intricate sculptures and ancient rock-cut architecture.
The primary attraction here is the four cave temples, all built during the Chalukyan era, showcasing incredible artistry and dedication from that period. Badami will surely captivate you if you have a penchant for exploring historical places and landscapes.

What is the colonial heritage of Badami?

As mentioned earlier, Badami served as the capital of the mighty Chalukya dynasty in the 6th century. Many rulers and kingdoms that followed the Chalukyas, including the Vijayanagara and Deccan Sultanate, also contributed to the town’s development.
Badami retained some of its old-world charms even during the colonial period under British rule. You can still find remnants of that era in the town, including quaint churches and bungalows showcasing beautiful colonial architecture. One notable example is St. John’s Church, a magnificent structure built during British rule.

What is the cultural importance of Badami?

Badami is a unique and special place where Indian culture and heritage are proudly preserved and celebrated. One of the highlights is the Banashankari Jatre, a magnificent celebration of all that makes this town unique. Additionally, classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi, when performed at various cultural events and festivals, are breathtaking and offer a window into Badami’s artistic heritage.

How can you reach Badami?

Getting to Badami is quite convenient. If you plan to fly in, the nearest airport is Hubli Airport, located approximately 112 kilometres away. You can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Badami. If you prefer train travel, the Badami Railway Station is well-connected to major cities in Karnataka. For road trip enthusiasts, Badami is easily accessible by well-maintained highways connecting it to nearby cities such as Bangalore (520 km) and Hubli (112 km).

What are the top historical and heritage places you should explore in Badami?

The Badami Cave Temples are a group of rock-carved temples on a cliff, showcasing the incredible architectural skills of ancient India. The temple’s backdrop, resembling a Wild West movie set, adds to its uniqueness. So, Badami temple will be on the top of your list.

Aihole, also known as Aivalli or Aryapura, is about 35 km from Badami and is known for stone structures built by Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain monks between the 6th and 12th centuries. Many buildings from the 7th to the 10th centuries remain, serving as places of worship in earlier times. So keep to a day tour from Badami.

Pattadakal, also known as Raktapura, is a village located about 20 km away from Badami. The main attraction here is a collection of ancient Hindu and Jain temples from the 7th and 8th centuries, now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temples blend northern and southern Indian architectural styles, offering a unique experience. Half a day will be good enough to cover Pattadakal.

The Banashankari Temple (7 CE) is a prime example of Dravidian architecture. It boasts an impressive entrance tower adorned with intricate sculptures and colourful motifs. The temple also hosts vibrant festivals that add life to the town.

Our favourite place here was the tranquil Agastya Lake, the Bhutanatha Temple, and the stunning views of Badami’s rugged landscape. The temple’s reflection in the lake during sunrise and sunset is mesmerizing.

The Archaeological Museum in Badami has a fascinating collection of ancient artefacts, sculptures, and inscriptions. It offers valuable insights into the town’s rich history.

What are the other places of tourist interest in Badami?

Apart from the historical and heritage sites, the Badami Fort is another historical place you should visit. If time permits, visit Mallikarjuna and Virupaksha temples; each has its unique charm. For nature enthusiasts, a trek to the rugged hills surrounding Badami is a rewarding experience.

Which is the best time to visit Badami?

The ideal time to explore Badami is during the winter months, from October to March. The weather is pleasant, making it conducive for exploring historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities. Summers can be scorching, so avoid visiting during this period.

What are the best souvenirs you can buy from Badami?

We recommend picking up souvenirs like intricately carved stone sculptures, handmade textiles, and traditional jewelry in Badami. These items are beautiful and reflect the town’s artistic legacy.

What traditional food and drinks must you try while in Badami?

Jolada Roti is a traditional millet bread that pairs well with spicy North Karnataka curries. You will love them.

What are some lesser-known facts about Badami?

Badami’s ancient caves were a backdrop for the 1975 Bollywood movie “Sholay,” making it a hidden gem in cinema. Additionally, Badami’s rock formations attract rock-climbing enthusiasts.

How many days are required to explore Badami?

We recommend allocating four days to explore Badami thoroughly. This will allow you to visit all the key historical sites and experience the local culture.

Is visiting Badami worth it?

Yes, it is! Badami’s unique blend of ancient history, colonial heritage, local culture, and natural beauty makes it a captivating destination for history and culture enthusiasts.”