Resounding Monuments of Karnataka: Part 1

Hampi, Antiquity Beheld!

Known today as Haal Hampe in Kannada - the city in ruins is the face of Karnataka Tourism! The group of monuments at Hampi is listed under the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Hampi was the former capital city of the mighty Vijayanagara Empire. The Virupaksha and Vittala temples are some of the popular structures here among many.

Badami, Calming Delight!

Formerly known as Vatapi when declared the capital city of Badami Chalukyas, Badami is now part of the Bagalkot district in Karnataka. Cave temples, shivalayas, fort and museum attract several tourists. Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism seem to have thrived around here. There's also a dargah, an Islamic place of worship, to the south of the fort. The sandstone cave temples have laborious inscriptions that include an 18 armed Nataraja in 81 dancing positions.

Halebidu, Exclaiming Fame!

The regal capital of the great Hoysala Empire, Halebidu was earlier known as Dwarasamudra. The Hoysaleshwara temple is the only remnant of the past fame and glory! Carved out of black soapstone, the sculptures are so delicate and beautiful that no one has ever walked out uninspired.

Belur, Gazing History!

Hearts melt and cry at the very thought of the fall of a formidable empire such as the Hoysalas. The intricate workmanship at Belur Chennakeshava temple showcases several sequential narrations of Hindu mythology. The carvings are full of life and vigour. The guides'-favourite is the remarkable sculpting of darpana-sundari (the lady with the mirror). As you gaze at the minute details, you'll be lost in irrevocable history.

Aihole, Inspiring Joy!

Being the first capital of the Badami Chalukyas, Aihole was the base of experimental architecture starting from the 5th century. With aesthetic sensibility strange to later periods of temple Architecture, Aihole is the abode of an astounding 125 temples divided into 22 groups. Hence, it is rightly titled the "cradle of temple architecture". A walk around the village along the banks of river Malaprabha is sure to inspire more than just joy!

Somnathpura, Keenly Lyrical!

This star-shaped wonder with triple towers poses as a wholesome fragment of keen lyricism. That is the magnificence of Somnathpura for you. Lying in close proximity to Mysore, the Somnathpura Chennakeshava temple is yet another example of the magic created by Hoysala architecture.

Gadag, Moving Nifty!

The grand pillars and doorways define the Gadag style of architecture patronized by the Chalukyas. Over a 50 temples were built here between 1050 and 1200 CE. Swaraswathi, Someshwara and Rameshwara temples are the highlight of the city. The famous Kannada poet Kumara Vyasa composed his acclaimed work on Mahabharata right here in the Veeranarayana temple.

Koppal, Overruling Philosophy!

The Mahadeva temple at Itagi in Koppal district hints the fact that Chalukyan architecture knows no bounds. The inscriptions found inside the temple flaunt stating to be the "emperor among temples". The other temples in Koppal include Amriteshwara temple, Kashivishveshwara temple and Doddabasappa temple.

Ikkeri, Quaintly Romantic!

Ikkeri was once the capital city of the Keladi Nayakas. The huge structure of the Aghoreshwara temple is the only survivor from the past. Situated near Sagara in Shimoga district, the Aghoreshwara temple is a must-visit for it offers a delightful combination of Hoysala and Kadamba architecture.

Kolar, Soulful Treasure!

Once a capital of the Gangas, Kolar is now the Eastern Gateway to Karnataka for it borders both Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. The Kolaramma and Someshwara temples in Kolar speak high of its history. The Kolaramma temple has a hundi dug deep into earth and every visitor till today puts a coin into it which resounds the music of the coins of yesteryears. The Someshwara temple on the other hand is said to closely resemble the one at Bangalore. Kolar, on the whole, is a soulful treasure.