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Pattadakal Temple |
Pattadakal
- South
India |
Introduction
Pattadakal,
in Karnataka, illustrates the Chalukyan art which, in the 7th
and 8th centuries A.D., under the Chalukya dynasty, achieved a
harmonious blend of architectural forms from the north and south
of India. There is an impressive series of nine Hindu temples,
as well as a Jain sanctuary. The oldest temple at Pattadakal is
the Sangamesvara Temple built by Vijayaditya Satyasraya (A.D.
697-733). It is a simple but a massive structure. The Temple of
Virupaksha, built around 740 A.D. by Queen Lokamahadevi to commemorate
her husband's victory over the kings from the south is a masterpiece
in itself. The sculptural art of the early Chalukyas is characterised
by grace and delicate details. The narrative reliefs illustrate
various episodes from the great Hindu epics - Ramayana and Mahabharata,
from the holy book - Bhagavata and tales of Panchatantra.
Tourist
information
Open on all weekdays.
From sunrise to sunset. Entry fee for those above 12 yrs. : Rs.
5.00, free entry on Fridays.
Best
time to visit
Ideal time to visit Pattadakal is. October to February
Access
Rail
The nearest railway station is Badami, 29 kms away.
Road
Pattadakal is connected by road to Badami (29 kms) and Aihole
(17 kms).
Where
to stay?
One can stay at Badami (29 kms) or Bijapur (17 kms).
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