Badami Fort is a majestic fortress in Badami, in the Bagalkot district of Karnataka. The fort is atop a hill overlooking the Badami Cave Temples and the city below. The fort was built in the 6th century AD by the Chalukya Dynasty and served as the dynasty's capital until the 8th century AD.
A moat on three sides surrounds the fort, and the entrance is through a steep flight of stairs carved into the rock face. The defence has several structures within its walls, including a granary, an audience hall, a treasury, and several temples. The most famous of these temples is the Malegitti Shivalaya temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
The Malegitti Shivalaya temple is a magnificent example of Chalukya architecture, and it features intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various mythological scenes. The temple is built on a raised platform with a pillared mandapa, a sanctum sanctorum, and a tower or shikhara.
The fort offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts. Visitors can also explore the nearby Badami Cave Temples, a group of four ancient rock-cut temples dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries AD. The temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, and they feature exquisite carvings and sculptures that are considered some of the finest examples of Chalukya art.
The Badami Fort includes the Bhutanatha Temple, the Agastya Lake, and the Banashankari Temple. Visitors can also explore Pattadakal and Aihole, famous for their ancient temples and monuments.
Places To Visit Near Badami Fort:
Badami Caves -
The Badami Caves are a group of four rock-cut caves that date back to the 6th and 7th centuries. These caves are located just below the Badami Fort and are famous for their intricate carvings and stunning architecture.
Agastya Lake -
Agastya Lake is beautiful and just a short distance from the Badami Fort. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills.
The Banashankari Temple is located just a few kilometres from the Badami Fort and is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in the region. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Banashankari and is known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.
Mahakuta Group of Temples:
The Mahakuta Group of Temples is a cluster of about 20 temples just 6 km from the Badami Fort. These temples are famous for their intricate carvings and are a great place to experience the rich history and culture of the region.
Pattadakal is a UNESCO World Heritage site 20 km from the Badami Fort. It is a collection of 8th-century temples known for their stunning architecture and intricate carvings—a must-visit place for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
Aihole is a town about 34 km from the Badami Fort known for its rich historical significance. It is home to several ancient temples and the birthplace of the Chalukya dynasty—a great place to explore the region's rich history and culture.
Kudala Sangama has located about 90 km from the Badami Fort and is a famous pilgrimage site for the devotees of Lord Shiva. It is where the rivers Krishna and Malaprabha meet and is known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful temples.