Pattadakal India Travel Guide
¤ Pattadakal Monuments - A
World Heritage Site
Pattadakal, in Karnataka, showcases some of the rare specimen of
temple art forms of 7th and 8th century. The temples were constructed
during the Chalukya Dynasty, depicting a marvelous blend of north and
south Indian architectural. A majestic array of nine Hindu temples, as
well as a Jain sanctum is the highlights of the town. A masterpiece
from the group stands out - the Temple of Virupaksha, built in 740 by
Queen Lokamahadevi to commemorate her husband's victory is just
mesmerizing.
 The
sculptural art of the Chalukya dynasty is illustrated by elegance and
refinement. These historic temple-art portrays various chapters from
the divine Hindu epics - Ramayana and Mahabharata, from the holy book
- Bhagavata and tales of Panchatantra.
¤ Temple Attractions
Pattadakal is an abode of a unique temple structure, every
historian's fantasy. It has a set of nine temples constructed in a
row, exhibiting the architects' zeal and demonstrating diverse styles
and patterns. Four of the temples here are in the south Indian
Dravidian architectural style while four are in the north Indian
Nagara style where as Papanatha temple exhibits a mongrel style.
The Virupaksha temple, probably the most ravishing of all temples is
constructed in the south Indian style, a replica of the Kailasanatha
temple of Kanchi. The temple enrolled as the model for the Ellora
Kailasanatha temple built by the Rashtrakootas.
The temple was constructed in 735 BC by Vikramaditya's queen
Lokeswari, in honor of kings victorious battle against the Pallavas of
Kanchi.
The Virupaksha temple faces east towards the Malaprabha river. The
temple is embellished with exquisite carvings on its 18 pillars
showcasing episodes from the puranas in the mukhamandapam, the rare
carvings of Ravananugrahamurthy, Narasimha, and Gajendramoksham - the
dance of Shiva. There is also an image of Lakulisa, showing the
predominance of the Pasupata sect of the Saiva religion in the
Chalukyan land.
Sangamesvara Temple, a colossal structure at Pattadakal is the oldest
temple among the group and was constructed by Vijayaditya Satyasraya
in 697-733 AD.
Near the Virupaksha temple, there is a small structure known as
Mallikarjuna temple similar to the Virupaksha temple.
The Galaganatha temple is built in the north Indian style and so is
the Kasi Visweswara.
Other temples here include those to Chandrasekhara, Sangameswara,
Jambulinga, Kadasiddheswara.
The Papanatha temple has a Nagara styleed Vimanam. The temple
highlights the episodes from the great legends- the Ramayana.
Pattadakal is also famous for some of the Jain shrine. The temple
dates back to 9th centuary from the period of the Rashtrakootas.
¤ Tourist Information
Open on all weekdays. There is a small fee to enter the heritage
site. Free entry on Fridays.
¤ Best time to visit
Ideal time to visit Pattadakal is. October to February
¤ Excursions From Pattadakal
Aihole -46km
Aihole makes an excellent travel excirson from Pattadakal. It is an
abode of around 70 temple structures displaying the ancient
architectural splendor. Ladkhan Temple with its simple doorways
displays the post Gupta influence. Durga Temple reveals the Buddhist
influences in its architecture and Huchimallagudi Temple are some of
the most yearning tourist attractions in Aihole.
Badami-29km
Badami is famous for its cave temples, chiseled out of a red
sandstone rock. The temples are dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Shiva.
Other attractions of Badami are its exclusive Jain caves showcasing
the architecture of Chalukyan regime.
¤ Museum Attractions
The Archaeological Survey of India has a museum in Badami near
Pattadakal. The Museum remains closes on Friday.
Other attraction of the town is the Annual Pattadakal Dance Festival,
it is held in the 4th week of January, which is of great source of
attraction in the town.
¤ Accessibility To Pattadakal
By Air: Bangalore -514km is
the nearest airport. The Dabolim airport at Vasco da Gama, Goa -489km
is other alternative to the temple site.
Rail: The nearest railway station is Badami, 29km from the
city.
Road: Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation buses are
available from Bangalore -514km, Hampi-118km, Badami-29km.
Pattadakal is connected by road to Badami -29km and Aihole-17km.
There are easily available buses and tourist cabs to reach the temple
site.
Major Circuits
Major Tour Packages To Maharashtra
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