Badami Cave

Paying tribute to the vast and glorious rule of Chalukyas, next on our list is one of the popular historic monuments in Karnataka. Badami Cave temples in Badami are the epitome of the skill of arts, crafts, and architecture.

The four cave temples of Badami were built between the 6th and 7th centuries. The first temple worships Lord Nataraja, while the second and third cave temples to Lord Vishnu and the fourth temple to Lord Mahavira, the founder of Jainism. Though the exteriors are simple, they have fascinating ornate interiors.

There are more than 81 sculptures of Lord Nataraja, ‘the cosmic dancer’, amorous couples, deities of Indian mythology, and more. As Badami was the capital of Chalukyas for over 2 centuries, these are enthralling masterpieces.

Badami Caves Karnataka

1 km, this group of 4 cave temples have been carved out of the hill opposite Badami fort. The Chalukyan king, Mangalesa(598-610)AD)was responsible for the completion of these cave temples. Of the four, three are Brahmanical, while the fourth is Jain. Nearly 2000 steps have to be climbed to reach the cave.

Cave 1:
The first Badami cave temple is dedicated to Nataraja (Lord Shiva). Lifesize 18 handed Nataraja image striking 81 dance poses welcomes the visitors here.

Cave 2:
This Badami cave temple is flanked by celestial guardians and dwarf statues. This cave shows several of Lord Vishnu’s avatars. Four ornate pillars with carvings of the mythical lion Yali support this temple

Cave 3:
This is the finest as well as the largest of the group. It has giant-sized images of Lord Vishnu seated on a coiled serpent along with other images of the Vaishnava pantheon. As in other caves, every inch of the roof and pillars are carved.

Cave 4:
This Badami cave temple is dedicated to Jainism. A small cave with images of Jain Tirthankaras, the sanctum holds a large sculpture of Lord Mahavira. This temple leads to the fort and the top of the hill.

On the northern banks of Agastya Theertha Lake and the other side of the Cave Temples, a series of elegant temples and carvings await those who complete an arduous climb through a stony chasm and fortified gateways. The Upper Shivalaya Temple still has some friezes and sculptures depicting legends relating to Lord Krishna. Perched on a rock, the Malegatti Shivalaya is an example of the ancient southern style of architecture. Badami was formerly known as Vatapi and served as the capital city of Badami Chalukyas.