Badami
Known as Vatapi in ancient India, Badami was once the capital of the Chalukyas who rose to power in much of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh in the middle of the 6th century AD. Its claim to world fame lies in the magnificent rock-cut cave temples built by the Early Chalukyas who is great temple builders. The Badami temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and the Jain Tirthankaras, displaying the secular nature of the Chalukyas of Vatapi or modern Badami. These temples are known for profusion of symbolic and mystical carvings of the highest order.

Sights to See

Badami Caves
Located half a kilometer from the Badami town are a group of four cave temples carved out of the hill opposite the Badami Fort. The Chalukyan king, Mangalesa was responsible for the completion of these artificial cave temples. The Chalukyas, sworn enemies of the Pallavas of Kanchi, modern Kanchipuram in the state of Tamil Nadu, rose to power in much of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh in the middle of the 6th century AD.

Museum & Art Gallery
Located on the Bhutanatha Temple Road, the museum is stocked with a stupendous collection of artistic treasures. The gallery is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India.

Badami Fort
The historical Badami fort is located 5 kms from the railway station. The fort encloses large granaries, a treasury, water tower and some impressive temples.