Karnataka offers many historical places worth discovering, with Badami Caves as a UNESCO World Heritage Site providing exquisitely-decorated temple caves worth the journey.
Halebid and Belur Temples exhibit Hoysala architecture. Also in Pattadakal is the Virupaksha Temple which should not be missed, while Gol Gumbaz mausoleum constructed by a Muslim Sultan is famed for its whispering gallery which echoes sound seven times!
Badami Caves
Badami Caves of Karnataka are one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites that is celebrated for their intricate rock-cut temples that reflect Shaivite and Vaishnavite traditions. Additionally, Badami is home to several inscriptions dating back to 543 AD that depict this historical landmark.
These four cave temples were constructed between 6th and 7th century AD by Chalukya rulers of Chaulakya Dynasty and dedicated to various Hindu gods: Cave 1 is dedicated to Shiva; Caves 2-3 honor Vishnu while Cave 4 stands as a Jain temple.
Temples throughout Karnataka feature intricately carved Nandi figures that have come to symbolize this state, while Raja’s tomb is another popular tourist spot that showcases Indo-Sarcenic style architecture that was prevalent during those times.
Belur-Halebid
Belur and Halebid are UNESCO World Heritage Sites that showcase the intricate carvings of Hoysala architecture. Temples in both towns feature this form of artwork; Hoysaleswara and Kedareshwara temples being just two wonderful examples.
Belur was the initial capital of the Hoysala Dynasty and it houses its magnificent Chennakeshava Temple that took 103 years to construct during King Vishnuvardhana’s rule, including three generations of Hoysala kings.
Belur and Halebid boasts an astounding collection of Hindu and Jain temples that remain breathtaking today, although many are in ruinous condition. People flock here from October through March – it is recommended to plan your visit then.
Hampi
Hampi, once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, is now recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The remains of this ancient city boast temples, palaces, riverside structures, bastions memorial structures gateways and stables among other things.
Hampi’s art and architecture was heavily influenced by both Dravidian style as well as Hinduism and Islam influences, with structures constructed of stone covered in intricate carvings.
Hampi’s most notable temples include Hazara Rama Temple and Vittala Temple Complex, with former being once reserved solely for members of the royal family and featuring carvings depicting scenes from Ramayana, including its massive chariot dedicated to Garuda – Lord Vishnu’s eagle escort.
Bijapur
Karnataka used to be home to various empires, such as Chola Dynasty, Hoysala Empire, Chalukya and Vijayanagar. They left behind an abundance of temples and majestic structures which remain a sight to behold even today.
Bijapur, famed for its magnificent architecture, can look back over an intriguing history. First established by Kalyani Chalukyas in 10th and 11th centuries before coming under the rule of Adil Shahi dynasty later on.
Gol Gumbaz stands as an iconic landmark here, housing one of the largest domes in the world and housing Mohammed Adil Shah’s mausoleum. Lingaraj Temple also draws visitors from far and wide for worship services and meditation sessions.
Dandeli
Dandeli is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, featuring lush deciduous forests amidst the backdrop of the Western Ghats and an array of exotic plants and animals – such as Black Panther! Additionally, its diverse population comprises Konkanis, Devalis, Marathas Lambanis Negroid Siddis; with Kannada as its primary language.
City is well known for its beautiful forts that are part of its rich heritage, some of which may even be in ruin yet remain popular tourist spots. These forts offer visitors an exquisite blend of history, architecture and brilliant design as they provide trekking/hiking trails as well as being perfect spots to view iconic Shivalingas that lend the city its spiritual atmosphere.
