• Aihole - Aihole served as the initial capital of the Badami Chalukyas, who governed from the 6th to the 9th century CE in this region. During the 5th and 6th centuries CE, as Hinduism experienced a renaissance initiated by the Guptas of North India, Hindus resumed temple construction, now using stone instead of other materials. Lacking experience in building stone temples, they experimented with the temple’s layout, exterior design, towers, toranas, sanctum-sanctorum, and circumambulatory path. Consequently, this site is renowned as the Cradle of Temple Architecture. No architecture student should miss visiting Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal if they wish to understand the evolution of Hindu temple architecture that began in the 5th century CE.
• Ravana Phadi - Located a short distance from the Aihole temple complex, this cave temple is often overlooked by visitors. Although it appears ordinary from the outside, the inner walls are adorned with a wealth of sculptures. The depictions of Harihara, Saptamatrikas, Varaha, Bhringi, dancing Shiva, Ganesha, Mahishasura Mardhini, and others are captivating in their presentation and accompanying stories. Additionally, the ceiling of the cave temple features intricate artwork that should not be missed.
• Group of Monuments in Pattadakal - Pattadakal is a World Heritage site, recognized for its impressive collection of both abandoned and active Shiva temples that illustrate the advanced stage of temple architecture evolution. Here, the Rekahnagara and Dravida styles of temple towers are clearly distinguished, having been developed here and later adopted by subsequent architects. The Kadasiddeshwara, Jambulinga, Galaganatha, Sangameshwara, Kashi Vishweshwara, and Virupaksha temples are testaments to the artists of the 7th and 8th centuries CE, during which these temples were constructed. Be sure to observe the inner walls of the Mallikarjuna temple, where futuristic designs of headgear and hair locks, imagined 1200 years ago, can be seen.
• Badami Cave Temples - The Badami Cave temples, carved from 200-million-year-old sandstone, demonstrate the remarkable artistic and engineering skills of Indians approximately 1300 years ago. Comparable sites include Ajanta, Ellora, Elephanta, and Mahabalipuram. Among the four caves, the first three are Hindu in nature, while the last one is Jain. The first three were carved in the 6th century CE, and the last one was created in the 9th century CE. Visitors must climb 200 steps to view all the cave temples. From the 2nd and 4th caves, there is a breathtaking view of the Vatapi lake and the various temples along its edge. The rock-cut statues of Hindu Gods such as Narasimha, Mahavishnu, Trivikrama, and Varaha are truly awe-inspiring. When visiting the cave temples, it is important to appreciate that the artists could not afford to make mistakes, as any damage to the statues would have been irreparable.

• Guide service only (clients pay other expenses)

• Meals
• Entrance fees
• Gratuities

This tour is perfect for those with their own transportation who require the expertise of a professional and licensed guide to explore the historic sites of Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal, all constructed by the Chalukya dynasty. In Badami, visitors will encounter remarkable rock-cut architecture on sandstone dating back to the 6th century CE, offering a Petra-like ambiance. Aihole is renowned as the Cradle of Hindu Temple Architecture, showcasing its development. Pattadakal, a UNESCO World Heritage site, further exemplifies the evolution of temple architecture. The itinerary can be customized to match the preferences of the guests. The guide will also recommend a great spot for lunch. Overall, the guide will ensure a comprehensive experience, considering the visitors’ interests, time, and energy. Please note: The guide will accompany you from the first visit and depart after the last visit; a seat in your vehicle should be reserved for him; all entry fees, parking fees, shoe-keeping fees, and food expenses are the responsibility of the visitors.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.