Aihole

Aihole, the cradle of Indian rock architecture
Introduction of the city of Aihole
Aihole is an ancient city which is located on the bank of Mallaprabha river of Bangalkot district of Karnataka state. This city is famous for its temples. By visiting this city you will come to know about various important historical incidents. For having such a large collection of ancient temples, this pious city of Karnataka is selected as a Heritage site by UNESCO. Apart from focusing on the historical scenario of Karnataka, Aihole is famous for its rock inscriptions. Here you will come across numerous primordial cists. According to historians and archaeological experts, this city used to be an important city during Chalukya Dynasty period.

During the ruling period of Chalukya kings, this city used to be the experimental site for Chalukya dynasty’s reputed king Pulakeshi I. While a traveler roams around the city will discover different types of rock cut architecture based temples. For this wide variety in rock cut architectures, Aihole is described as the Cradle of Hindu Rock Architecture. Apart from its historical importance, this city is an important mythological place, where it is said that Parushuram, other incarnation of lord Vishnu washed his gory axe, after soaking it with the blood of Kshatriya kings. However, this city is embellished with countless temples, but here we are discussing some mostly visited sites of this city.

Things to see in Aihole

• Durga Temple-This is one of the most remarkable temples of Aihole, which is dated back to 7th to 8th century. According to experts, this temple was built in following the Buddhist architecture. Amazing stone carved Sanctum, gallery, Sabha Mantapa makes this shrine from more than a religious site. While covering this beautiful temple, you will find some beautiful stone carvings of Narasimha, Lord Shiva, and Goddess Chamundi in different postures. 

• Jain Meguti Temple-According to archaeological researchers, this Dravidian architecture based temple is dated back to 634AD. It is said that the beautiful carvings of this temple was constructed by Ravikirti, who used to be the commander of Pulakeshin II. The specialty of this temple is imbibed in its architectures. While you travel this temple, you will get spellbound to view the perfection of this temple’s architecture. 

• Ladkhan temple- This temple is dedicated to worship Lord Shiva. According to various records, it can be said that this temple was built in 7th to 8th century. This temple is located on the southern part of the Durga temple. In this temple, you will find Shiva Linga and Nandi. This temple was built in the form of Panchayat hall. The 12 pillar base chamber has an amazing finishing with floral pattern carvings and the lattice design of the North Indian architecture.

• Ravana Phadi-This cave temple is recorded as the ancient rock cut cave temple in Aihole, which is dated back to 6th century AD. This beautifully carved cave temple is known for its pillars and a Veranda. Inside this site, you will notice a rectangular shrine, which is consisted of two mantapas and a sanctum. This temple has three entrances. Inside this cave temple, you will find the beautiful wall carving of Lord Shiva in Nataraja posture.

Shopping in Aihole
Sculpture buying- While explore this city; you can buy some beautiful sculpture of Hindu deities and other home décor products from the local shops.

Travel Mode:

Planning to go this place via Indian Rail?

 Visit www.indianrail.gov.in. /‎ for knowing specific trains going to this place. You may book your train tickets at www.irctc.co.in/‎ 

Planning to go this place via Bus?

 Visit https://www.ksrtc.in  

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