Resounding Monuments of Karnataka: Part 2

We hope our previous article on the Monuments of Karnataka is still resounding in the depths of your being. This architectural treasure-hunt is a never ending process when it comes to Karanataka. Each monument, pillar, ceiling, relief, wall, tells a story worth being retold several times over. #13;The grandeur of the kingdoms, the heritage of the land, the craftsmanship of artists, the accounts of historians, the perspectives of travellers - all come together to make Karnataka a rich house of narratives. Heres the continuation of the list of resounding monuments of Karnataka that could possibly become part of your personal narrative too... #13; The eight temples of Pattadakal stand evidence to the historical milestones achieved by the Chalukyan dynasty. Pattadakal or pattada kallu translates from Kannada to coronation stone! The group of monuments here is listed under UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This temple complex dating back to the 8th century is a combination of both Dravidian and Indo-Aryan architectural styles. The Bhoga Nandeeshwara temple at Chikballapur has been stamped ruled by five dynasties - the Cholas, Gangas, Hoysalas, Pallavas and the Vijayanagara kings - which makes it an abode of immeasurable architectural treasure. Located only 60 km away from Bangalore, the temple stands at the foot of the mesmerizing Nandi Hills and is rather unexplored. Most of the monuments in Bidar date back to the era of the Bahamani Sultans. With a fort that showcases the highest degree of Persian architecture, monumental Arabic University (built by Mahmud Gawan), domed mosques, and stylized palaces - the city was never out of news. The local handicraft - Bidriware is internationally marketed. In the famed fort of Gol Gumbaz at Bijapur, weve two ways to reveal our secrets. Speak out in the whispering gallery and be assured to be heard 37 metres away. Or you could say it aloud in the central chamber which will in turn be echoed seven times over. A budding rose in appearance as the name suggests, Gol Gumbaz is the finest example of the triumph of simplicity. A handsome fort built by stone, Chitradurga lies on NH4. The fort is associated with many great legends and is famous for the 19 gateways and many secret passageways. Locally called yeLu suttina koTe meaning that it is fortified by seven walls, the fort is known to be impenetrable. The 18 temples inside the fort still attracts devotees. Every common man walks past the fort feeling like a true warrior. Srirangapatna is an island formed by river Kaveri, 16 km away from Mysore. Famous for the fortress of Tippu Sultan, Srirangapatna is also the holy abode of Sri Ranganathaswamy temple. It is called Adi Ranga, for its the first that appears on the list of Pancha Ranga Kshetrams. Built by the Gangas and improved by the Hoysalas and the Vijayanagara Kings, Srirangapatna is a major pilgrim centre of the Vaishnavites! A lofty pilgrim centre of the Jains stands elegantly amidst pleasing greens of the Western Ghats. 108 polished pillars support the structure of Chaturmukha Basadi in Karkala, Mangalore. Peace and awe are two definite experiences here.