- UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Yes (Group of Monuments at Pattadakal)
- Best time
- October to March
- Ideal time needed
- 1–2 hours
- Nearest railway station
- Badami (about 20 km)
- Distance from Bengaluru
- About 450 km
History
Pattadakal served as the coronation town of the Chalukyas of Badami, which gave it the old name of the city of crown rubies. Most of the temples date from the 7th and 8th centuries, at a time when architects were experimenting with different temple forms, and their ideas went on to influence building across south India.
What to see
The UNESCO-listed group includes nine Hindu temples and a Jain sanctuary, set close together on lawns by the river. Some towers follow the northern Nagara style with curved spires, while others use the stepped Dravidian style of the south.
The Virupaksha Temple, built in the 8th century by Queen Lokamahadevi to mark a victory, is the largest and finest, with detailed carvings from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Next to it stands the similar Mallikarjuna Temple, and the Papanatha Temple shows the two styles combined. Plan on one to two hours.
Best time to visit
October to March is the best season, when days are warm but comfortable. Go early in the morning: the light on the sandstone is soft, the site is quiet, and you avoid the midday heat. Carry water and a hat, and keep some time for the small shops selling snacks and souvenirs near the entrance.
How to reach
Badami, around 20 km away, has the nearest railway station and the best range of hotels, so most people stay there. Roads connect Pattadakal with Bijapur (Vijayapura), Hubballi and Belagavi. The nearest major international airport is Bengaluru, roughly 450 km away. Hampi is also within reach for a longer north Karnataka circuit, which we can plan for you.
Also nearby
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