Badami, Ancient temple town in Karnataka, India
Badami is a town in Bagalkot district, Karnataka, that spreads along the shores of an artificial lake below red sandstone cliffs. The rock-cut caves and freestanding structures form a cohesive ensemble of sacred architecture.
The Chalukya rulers founded their capital at this site in 540 and built fortifications and temple complexes that demonstrated their power. The dynasty governed from here until 757, when their rivals took control of the territory.
The name derives from the Sanskrit word Vatapi, which appears in ancient inscriptions and underlines the religious importance of the site. Visitors find a mix of Hindu and Jain shrines that continue to serve as places of worship and draw local pilgrims.
The cooler months between November and February are particularly comfortable for exploring the rock monuments, as the heat is less intense then. Regular bus connections link the town with larger cities in Karnataka and make travel easier.
Cave number three holds an inscription from the year 578 that documents the completion date of the structure. This cave also displays wall reliefs with dance scenes that capture movement and costumes from that era.
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