Karnataka is home to a rich heritage and culture. As the home of ancient kingdoms and dynasties, it boasts some impressive monuments.
Pattadakal, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, features 10 temples that showcase a blend of southern and northern architectural styles. Shrine structures display the exquisite art and architecture from Chalukya kingdom.
Mirjan Fort
Mirjan Fort is an iconic symbol of Karnataka’s rich past and should not be missed when visiting this state. Boasting stunning architectural excellence by being constructed out of locally available laterite stones, its beauty lies in the form of its octagonal watchtower which adds further beauty. Situated 11km away from Kumta on National Highway 17 this impressive fort was constructed by Queen Chennabhairadevi of Gersoppa (known as Pepper Queen) during the 16th century.
Fort Ramnagar is an amalgamation of Indian and Islamic architecture. Historically it served as a trading center for pepper, cassia and nutmeg during the reigns of Vijayanagara kings, Bijapur Sultans, Keladi kings as well as foreign travellers such as De Barros Barbosa Hamilton. Additionally it houses Gol Gumbaz; an Indo-Islamic style monument famous for its whispering gallery.
Raja’s Tomb
Gaddige Raja’s Tomb is an unforgettable example of Karnataka’s distinctive architecture and is situated in Madikeri – the picturesque capital of Coorg district.
The Tomb is an exquisite example of Indo-Sarcenic architecture. The central structure contains three tombs from Kodavali royal dynasty; among these is that of Doddaveerarajendra and Mahadeviamma’s, his son Lingarajendra’s and their wives as well as their guru Rudrappa built in 1834.
What makes the tomb intriguing is its unique purpose – constructed for Hindu kings – something quite rare in India. Furthermore, this tomb is unique as the only one with a Shiva Linga inside for added spiritual significance and mystery. Furthermore, two faces were even managed to be engraved onto one stone surface which makes for quite an intriguing and mystifying design feature.
Hoysaleswara Temple
Hoysaleswara Temple stands out as one of Karnataka’s premier temples with its elegant structures that exude grandeur and magnificence. It features intricate carvings that hold special symbolic meaning for religious narratives, mythological scenes and everyday lives depicted sculpturally.
Hoysala Dynasty between 1000-1346 AD built the temple. Its design drew inspiration from Western Chalukyas and Pallavas; while its intricate iconography testifies to Hindu culture.
Belur Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features beautifully-carved pillars and towers which evoke feelings of devotion and serenity. Its inner sanctum is a masterpiece of Hoysala architecture with intricately-detailed sculptures of gods, goddesses, sages, stylised animals as well as its ornate doors that delight visitors’ eyes. Legends surround this historical landmark as its story will leave an imprint in both your mind and heart. 16 km away lies Halebidu (Halebeedu or Halebid), another Hoysala temple owned by this dynasty that are sure to leave an imprint on both mind and heart – stop by for another memorable visit!
Hampi
Hampi is a historical site that was once one of the most glorious Hindu kingdoms in its region, featuring impressive monuments that remain as testaments of their former grandeur today as part of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. These structures were constructed during Vijayanagara empire’s rule between 1336-1570 with beautiful Dravidian architecture in mind.
Hampi is home to some of the city’s most notable temples, such as Virupaksha, Vittala and Chandrasekhara temples. Also notable in Hampi is Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple on Anjaneya Hill which honors Lord Hanuman by having tourists climb 550 steps in order to access it.
Other noteworthy temples include Kadalekalu Ganesh with his chiseled belly resembling that of a lotus bud and Hemakuta Hills which boast an enormous monolithic statue of Lord Ganesha. Additionally, Zenana enclosure’s Lotus Mahal and Treasury Building can be found within its ruins; both structures should not be missed by architecture enthusiasts.
