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The ancient Upper and lower Shivalaya Gdi or temples in the Badami fort, Badami, Karanataka, India

Badami in a blink

2 Days | Badami

The ancient Upper and lower Shivalaya Gdi or temples in the Badami fort, Badami, Karanataka, India
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Route distance :

10.3 km

Route distance :

10.3 km

Discovering Badami’s breathtaking beauty in two days

Nestled amidst rocky landscapes, the historic city of Badami in Karnataka beckons travellers to embark on a captivating 2-day sojourn. Once the regal capital of the Chalukya Dynasty, Badami is an artist's palette of vibrant cultures, stunning architectural wonders, and tales that echo through time. Visitors will be immersed in the allure of this ancient city's striking temples, fortifications, and age-old structures. You'll journey to the formidable Badami Fort, the intricately detailed Malegitti Shivalaya Fort and Lower Shivalaya, which command panoramic views of the region. The Badami Archaeological Museum offers a peek into the bygone eras, whilst the Badami Cave Temples, carved into massive sandstone cliffs, whisper stories of divine legends. Sacred spaces like the Mallikarjuna Temple and Bhutanatha Temple exude serenity, inviting visitors to reflect and revel in their grandeur. And, as you wander, the spiritual aura of Banashankari Temple beckons. Alongside these iconic landmarks, indulge in the delightful local cuisine, rich with flavours that mirror Badami's diverse heritage. Dive deep into this mesmerising blend of history, spirituality, and nature, and let Badami etch its indelible mark on your traveller's soul.

Embarking on a journey through time in Badami

Day 1
Lower Shivalaya near Badami Caves, Badami, Karnataka State, India. Built in 6th-7th century AD. It is unesco heritage site and place of amazing chalukya dynasty sotne art.
  • Experience the union of nature and ancient architecture

  • Highlights

    Badami Fort, Lower Shivalaya, Badami Archaeological Museum, Malegitti Shivalaya Fort

Begin your day in Badami, the historic treasure trove of Karnataka, by savouring a breakfast that truly represents the region's culinary identity. Dive into the fluffy texture of Thatte Idli, enhanced by the rich and spicy flavours of coconut chutney. As this gastronomic delight leaves a lingering taste, prepare yourself to step back in time.

Perched dominantly on a hillock, the Badami Fort stands as an embodiment of power and architectural brilliance. The fort's expansive walls and ornate watchtowers offer a panoramic vista of the city, which unfolds like a historic map beneath. While strolling through the fort's labyrinthine corridors and stone-clad paths, every corner seems to echo tales of ancient battles, of kings and queens, and of strategic masterminds that once walked the same routes.

Journeying downwards, the Lower Shivalaya awaits, representing the epitome of the Chalukya Dynasty's devotion to Lord Shiva. Its lingering ruins, while silent, seem to hum with the sounds of ancient rituals, fervent prayers, and spiritual chants from eras long past.

Enhance your historical experience at the Badami Archaeological Museum. A treasure chest of the bygone era, it houses sculptures, inscriptions, and a myriad of artefacts. These relics from the Chalukya period don't just speak of kings and battles but also shed light on the day-to-day life, art, and the cultural zenith of those times.

As your day winds down, head to the Malegitti Shivalaya Fort. The poetic scene of the setting sun casting a golden embrace upon the city and the fort's rugged silhouette will etch a lasting memory, encapsulating the very spirit of Badami's ageless allure.

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Temples, tales, and tranquillity

Day 2
Mallikarjuna temple near Badami Caves, Karnataka State, India
  • Exploring the spiritual and cultural heartbeat of Badami

  • Highlights

    Mallikarjuna Temple, Bhutanatha Temple, Badami Cave Temples, Banashankari Temple

As the dawn breaks on your second day in Badami, re-energise yourself with the traditional Jolada Rotti. This traditional flatbread, accompanied by a tantalisingly spicy curry, sets the pace for another day of exploration.

The Mallikarjuna Temple, with its beautifully chiselled pillars and intricate carvings, opens its doors to tales of deities, myths, and legends that have been immortalised in stone. Every nook of this temple seems to hold a secret, every carving a story waiting to be heard.

Located beside a serene tank, the Bhutanatha Temple exudes a sense of tranquillity. The temple's architectural finesse reflected immaculately on the water's surface, paints a serene tableau and showcases Badami's innate connection to both spirituality and nature's splendour.

Your next destination, the iconic Badami Cave Temples, beckons with its mystique. Carved meticulously from the region's unique sandstone, these caves serve as a sanctuary for art, history, and spirituality. As you navigate through the caves, myriad sculptures emerge, each narrating tales from Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism. The delicate artistry of the carvings not only showcases religious devotion but also the pinnacle of the era's craftsmanship.

As the shades of evening settle, the Banashankari Temple invites you to a peaceful retreat. Immerse in the temple's spiritual aura, and perhaps, get a taste of the authentic temple cuisine. Often prepared by local village women, these meals embody the rich tradition, hospitality, and culinary brilliance of Badami.