The joy derived from vacationing and visiting a historical tourist destination is often unparalleled. It is incredibly rewarding to travel to a place of historical significance, as it offers a unique experience unlike any other landscape. One such rewarding destination, with an antique appeal, is the village of Pattadakal in Karnataka. This site has become a favorite among tourists due to its ancient structures.
- Location: Pattadakal, Bagalkot, Karnataka
- Built In: 7th-8th centuries
- Built By: Chalukya Dynasty
- Timings: Sunrise to sunset
- How to Reach:
- Nearest railway: Badami (22 km)
- Nearest airport: Belgaum (205 km), Bangalore (384 km)
- Sightseeing:
- Temples: Virupaksha, Sangameshwara, Mallikarjuna, Kashivisvanatha, Jain, Papanatha
- Museum and Sculpture Gallery
Location
Pattadakal is located 22 kilometers from the town of Badami, another historical center of the state famous for its ancient structures. It falls within the Bagalkot district of Karnataka.
History
The village of Pattadakal was established as the capital of the Chalukya Dynasty. The temples here were constructed during the 7th and 8th centuries. A total of ten temples were built by the rulers, including one Jain temple, while the rest are dedicated to Lord Shiva.
In earlier periods, the village was known as Pattada Kisuvolal or simply Kisuvolal. Literary works from the 16th century describe it as Hammirapura and Pattashilapura.
The group of monuments in Pattadakal represents one of the finest examples of the blending of different architectural styles. Because of its rich historical significance, the village was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Monuments
- Virupaksha Temple: Built in the 8th century by the wife of Vikramaditya II to commemorate his victory, this temple houses several beautiful sculptures. Initially known as the Lokeshvara Temple, it features three entrances: from the south, east, and north. The sanctum sanctorum contains a Shivlinga.
- Sangameshwara Temple: This temple is considered the oldest in Pattadakal and is built in the Dravidian architectural style. The exterior walls of the temple feature various carvings of figures.
- Mallikarjuna Temple: A smaller version of the Virupaksha Temple, it was constructed by another wife of Vikramaditya II. Initially known as the Trailokeshvara Temple, its pillars depict various events from the Mahabharata and Ramayana, while the exterior walls feature sculptures of several deities.
- Kashivisvanatha Temple: Built in the Nagara style of architecture, this temple dates back to the 8th century.
- Galganatha Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple features a depiction of Shiva killing the mythological demon Andhakasura.
- Jain Temple: Constructed in the 9th century, this temple contains some of the most exquisite sculptures of its time.
- Papanatha Temple: Dating back to the 7th century, the sculptures in this temple illustrate events from the Mahabharata and Ramayana. Inside the temple, there are 16 pillars, each showcasing figures of females and various couples.
- Kadasiddhesvara and Jambulingeswara Temples: Both temples date back to the 7th century, with the former dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Chandrashekhara Temple: A smaller temple compared to others, it houses a Shivlinga in its sanctum sanctorum.
In addition to the historical temples, tourists can also visit the Museum of Plains and the Sculpture Gallery, located near the monument group. Managed by the Archaeological Survey of India, this museum showcases rare sculptures and artifacts from the ancient period.
Accommodation and Other Facilities
The nearest hotels and lodges are in Badami. Restaurants and other facilities are also located in the same town. Due to its proximity, Badami serves as a convenient base for tourists visiting Pattadakal.
Best Time to Visit
- The temples and the grounds remain open to visitors from sunrise to sunset.
- The best time to visit Pattadakal is between October and February when the weather is pleasant.
- The entry fee for visitors from India, SAARC, and BIMSTEC countries is Rs. 35/- per person. Visitors from other countries are required to pay an entry fee of Rs. 600/- per person.
How to Reach
- The nearest railway station to Pattadakal is in Badami, which is well-connected to other cities and states.
- The nearest domestic airport is in Belgaum, approximately 205 kilometers away. The nearest international airport is in Bangalore, about 384 kilometers from Pattadakal.
- Visitors can hire private cabs or drive their own vehicles to explore the historical monuments of Pattadakal.
Also Reads on: Famous Historical Monuments of Karnataka