Badami Cave Temples

Vishnu seated on serpent Sesha in Cave 3 of badami.

Nestled in the heart of Karnataka, the Badami cave temples are a compelling testament to the rich history and architectural brilliance of the region. Situated in the town of Badami, merely 88 miles east of Belgavi and 87 miles northwest of Hampi, with the Malaprabha River meandering just 3 miles away, these temples stand as magnificent relics surrounded by ancient splendor. Badami, once the capital of the Chalukyas, bears witness to several temples, both structural and rock-cut, dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries.

Historical Foundations and Dynastic Shifts

The roots of Badami, originally known as Vatapi, were planted by Pulakeshi I (535 – 566 AD). His son, Kirtivarman I (567 – 598 AD), embellished the town with temples and structures. The completion of the cave temples is attributed to Mangalesha (598 – 610 AD), Kirtivarman I's brother, who also endowed the temples with a village during the installation of the Vishnu image. Pulakeshi II (610-642 AD), the dynasty's most illustrious ruler, expanded Badami's significance, even defeating the Pallava King Mahendra Verman I. However, Badami faced the consequences as the Pallavas captured and destroyed it in retaliation. Over the centuries, Badami witnessed the rule of the Vijayanagar Kings, Adil Shahis, Savanur Nawabs, Marathas, Hyder Ali, and finally, the British, incorporating it into the Bombay Presidency.

Badami Cave Temples: A Glimpse into Chalukyan Artistry

A mere 1 km from Badami fort, the group of four cave temples is an awe-inspiring display of Chalukyan artistry, demanding ascent up nearly 2000 steps for exploration.

    Cave I (Shaivite Cave): Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Cave I boasts an 18-armed dancing Shiva, a two-handed Ganesha, Mahishasura Mardini, Ardha Nareeshwara, and Shankarnarayana. The ceiling is adorned with a serpent motif and other intricately carved figures.

    Cave II (Vaishnavite Influence): Influenced by Vaishnavism, Cave II showcases panels of Trivikrama and Bhuvaraha. The ceilings feature carvings of Anantasayana, Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, and other Ashtadikpalas.

    Cave III (Shaivite & Vaishnavite Themes): The largest and most intricate, Cave III encompasses carvings related to both Shaivite and Vaishnavite themes. Panels of Trivikrama, Narasimha, Shankaranarayana, Bhuvaraha, Anantasayana, and Harihara are engraved in a vigorous style. An inscription from 578 AD, discovered here, records the shrine's creation by Mangalesha.

    Cave IV (Jain Cave): Situated to the east of Cave III, Cave IV is dedicated to Jainism. The sanctum houses an image of Mahavira, surrounded by carvings of Padmavathi and other Thirthankaras. A steep climb leads to the southern part of Badami Fort.

Beyond the Caves: Exploring Badami's Temple Landscape

The town of Badami, once a second capital for Early Chalukyas, is adorned with numerous temples from the Early Chalukya and Rashtrakuta periods. Spread across various elevations along the rocky outcrop, these temples, including the Upper-Shivalaya and Malegitti Shivalaya, showcase the evolution of Early Chalukyan temple architecture.

As you wander through the ancient corridors and marvel at the intricacies carved into the rock, Badami emerges as a living testament to the cultural and historical tapestry of Karnataka. Each cave and temple tells a story, inviting visitors to step back in time and relive the grandeur of the Chalukyan dynasty.

Embark on a journey through Badami's historic caves, where every carving, inscription, and architectural marvel whispers tales of a bygone era. Unearth the secrets of Karnataka's cultural heritage, beautifully etched in the heart of the rock-cut wonders of Badami.

Dancing Shiva in Cave 1