Badami Cave Temple

The Badami temples reflect the emergence of the Chalukyan style of temple architecture - reputed for its classical rock-cut creations. Their style is an intricate blend of the North Indian Nagara style and the South Indian Dravidian style. Situated in a ravine at the foot of a red sandstone outcrop, the Badami caves extend to a large height with layers of rocks. The area surrounds the Agastya Lake, with distinct greenish-tinged water, adding to the contrast of the red sandstone.

Badami caves are the world's first monolithic shrines of the Vedic tradition, against the long tradition of such Jaina or Buddhist creations. The noteworthy four caves with four temples of rare sculptural excellence offer a thrilling trek to reach them. Of the four temples, three are dedicated to Hindu gods, and the fourth is a Jain temple. This goes to represent the secular nature of the Chalukyan rulers with tolerance and religious beliefs inclined towards Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism.

The cave temples date back to 600 and 700 CE. It also bears exquisite carvings, sculptures and beautiful murals. Important part of historical heritage at Badami cave temples are inscriptions in old Kannada script.