Karnataka region was once under the control of several empires such as Chalukyas and Vijayanagara Empire, both responsible for creating beautiful temple architecture.
Hampi, popularly dubbed the ‘City of Ruins”, is an UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with ancient temples and remnants from the old city.
Hampi
Hampi was once an astounding center of culture and trade under the Vijayanagara Empire that flourished until 16th century. Reminders of this vibrant past can still be seen today in its temples, mosques, civil and military structures that make up this UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Of particular interest amongst all of these landmarks are Tarakeshwara Temple which features walls covered in scenes from Ramayana along with intricately designed pillars – all worth exploring during one visit!
Hampi, commonly referred to as the ‘City of Ruins”, covers an area of 4,100 hectares and contains more than 500 ancient temples, archaeological monuments, Treasury building and bastions. With its hippie atmosphere and bustling street markets selling handcrafts and souvenirs Virupaksha Temple and Hemakuta Hill are not to be missed!
Srirangapatna
Srirangapatna is an ideal way to discover the historical beauty of Karnataka. Dubbed as the ‘City of Ruins”, this UNESCO World Heritage Site houses more than 500 temples, bastions, and other ancient structures sure to captivate your sense of imagination.
As part of your historic visit, do not miss visiting Ranganathaswamy Temple – its beautiful carvings draw people from across India for pilgrimages and services.
This site holds great historical significance as it was the scene of several rebellions by Kittur Chennamma and Sangolli Rayanna during the 1830s, almost three decades before India’s 1857 Rebellion, that kicked off freedom movements nationwide and thus makes this location of equal importance to history enthusiasts alike.
Hoysaleswara Temple
Hampi, Karnataka is home to an iconic world heritage site: Hampi is a must-visit historical destination and an absolute delight! Once known as the Vijayanagar empire capital, it boasts temples, palaces and treasury buildings that attest to its power and opulence.
Halebid’s most impressive temple, Hoysaleswara Temple, exemplifies Hoysala architecture at its best. With its massive base and star-shaped structure anchored by intricately designed pillars, its inner sanctum features Hindu deities, sages, stylized animals and friezes displaying scenes from Hoysala rulers lives.
Halebid’s Kedareswara Temple is worthy of your consideration as well. Commissioned by King Kedareswara II, its inner sanctum boasts exquisite carvings.
Badami
Badami (also known as Vatapi) is an alluring town tucked alongside a sacred lake, once serving as the royal capital for Chalukya dynasty from 540 to 757 AD. Today it remains an alluring and captivating spot, boasting beautiful rock-cut temples.
Badami Cave Temple Complex in Karnataka stands as an outstanding example of Indian rock-cut architecture; specifically dedicated to Hindu deities. Cave 3 holds many Lord Vishnu carvings while Cave 4 contains Jain images.
Don’t miss your opportunity to see the Halmidi Inscription written by Rani Chennamma, Queen of Kittur. She was an inspiring leader who led resistance against British colonial rule decades before Rani Laxmibai ever did!
Shimoga
Shivamoga, also known locally, is an oasis of nature and history. Here you’ll find amazing waterfalls such as Jog Falls and Dabbe Falls, exotic flora, flowing streams and lakes, captivating mountains – these must-see Shimoga tourist sites should not be missed!
Adi Shankara, the famous Hindu philosopher and exponent of Advaita Vedanta, founded Sringeri Sharada Peeta here in 8th century CE. Adorned with five sacred Shivalingas to give this shrine an unparalleled spiritual aura.
Nagara Fort is another iconic landmark, built atop a hill and overlooking a peaceful lake. The temple pillars feature intricately-decorated gods and goddesses as well as animals; another must-see Shimoga tourist spot is Kamala Basati Temple made of black basalt.
