Information on Badami Caves (Bagalkot, Karnataka) - History & Architecture

Badami Caves is a temple which is situated in Badami of Karnataka, near red sandstone point. Badami Caves comprise four caves which are created from lenient stonework on a hill crag in the late 6th century. These caves have simple design, having gateway with stone supports and brackets. The unique characteristics of Badami Caves regarded as a great place for tourism. The caves signify diverse religious groups. For instance, two caves of the temple are devoted to God Vishnu and one cave is devoted to God Shiva and the other one signify Jain temple.

Badami Caves Architecture

Badami Caves are engraved with sandstone hills, each containing a shrine, a gallery, an open veranda and various beautiful columns. The entire temple compound is exclusive example of Hindu and Dravidian architecture with the wall decorated with several divinely carved statues and attractive paintings. The series of caves deliver instructive information regarding the development of sculpture and culture along with Chalukyan design. While the earliest construction of Badami Caves appear merely a large court halls linked with memorials, those caves which were established throughout the later phase were more composite in nature. One of the most outstanding aspects of Badami Caves is eighteen equipped Nataraja and Mahavira statues in seated position.

Badami Caves History

Badami was an affluent town of India which was connected with Chalukyas. Chalukyas are frequently attributed with innovating new architectural styles and sights, of which can be observed from Badami Caves. Badami Caves was established throughout the regime of Chalukya Empire in the 6th century. These caves were discovered by Pulekeshin I, who was a supreme Chalukys leader. Along with the caves, there are multiple memorials in the temple which belong to ancient times. Badami Caves signify impeccable combination of architectural design of south and north India.

The first cave of Badami Caves is regarded as the eldest cave of the temple. It was created in 578 AD with red stonework. This cave is stunningly decorated with images and carved work which can make the travellers impressed. The walls of the cave deliver definitive example of premium art on that time. The first cave also possess several paintings of Lord Shiv and Parvati. The second cave comprise various forms of Lord Vishnu. The most striking feature of this cave is a form of Lord Vishnu which is surrounded by 16 fishes. The third cave is regarded as the most stimulating cave of Badami Caves. It comprise delightful statues of Lord Shiv and Lord Vishnu. It is the only cave which comprise legends from 578 AD. The fourth cave is the Jain temple which was created after 100 years later of the completion of other three caves. The key attractions of this cave are picture of Lord Mahavira and Lord Parsvanath.

Badami Caves Tourism Importance

Badami Caves is great place for tourism with variety of attractions. It is a fully incursive temple characterised by several prehistoric aspects. It is a 6th century monument, making it a quite significant place for travellers to explore ancient Indian architecture. Due to its unique architecture and long history, Badami Caves has obtained great tourism potential. The caves are a phenomenon of Indian culture and the surrounding areas can also allow travellers to spent additional time in the temple. The decoration of the temple along with superb views should not be missed by travellers.