Pattadakal, located on the banks of the Malaprabha River in Bagalkot, Karnataka, is a UNESCO-recognized site renowned for its remarkable display of Chalukyan architectural mastery. This ancient temple complex, dating back to the 7th and 8th centuries during the reign of the Badami Chalukyas, showcases a stunning fusion of North Indian (Nagara) and South Indian (Dravidian) architectural styles.
Each temple within Pattadakal tells its own unique story, carved in stone and dedicated to deities such as Shiva, Vishnu, and Jain Tirthankaras, all reflecting centuries of spiritual devotion. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or a pilgrim following ancient paths, these 10 temples provide a rare window into India’s rich temple heritage.
# Virupaksha Temple Virupaksha Temple is the most intricate and well-preserved monument in Pattadakal. Built to commemorate King Vikramaditya II’s triumph over the Pallavas, the temple—designed by Queen Lokamahadevi—later influenced the iconic Kailasa Temple in Ellora.
The temple’s walls are adorned with detailed friezes depicting scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, while the inner sanctum houses a Shiva Linga. The large Nandi pavilion faces the shrine, and intricate carvings of river goddesses, celestial beings, and various forms of Shiva embellish the structure.
Why Visit: It’s the finest example of South Indian temple design and sculpture under Chalukya patronage.
# Mallikarjuna Temple Dedicated to: Lord Shiva
Built by: Queen Trilokamahadevi
Architectural Style: Dravidian, a smaller version of Virupaksha Temple
Situated next to the Virupaksha Temple, the Mallikarjuna Temple, established by Queen Trilokamahadevi, mirrors the design of its larger counterpart, though it is smaller in size. The symmetrical layout, ornate ceilings, and decorative pillars, alongside the detailed carvings on the tower, showcase Chalukyan craftsmanship.
Travel Tip: Visit at sunrise or sunset for stunning lighting on the red sandstone carvings.
# Papanatha Temple The Papanatha Temple is known for its experimental architecture, believed to be built earlier than most temples at Pattadakal. It features a long pillared hall adorned with carvings from Hindu epics and a sanctum with a Shiva Linga.
Interesting Fact: The name Papanatha suggests a connection to liberation from sins, making it a spiritual cleansing space.
# Sangameshwara TempleDedicated to: Lord Shiva
Built by: King Vijayaditya (around 720 CE)
Architectural Style: Dravidian
One of the earliest temples built by the Chalukyas in Pattadakal, this grand temple—originally named Vijayeshwara Temple—displays a mature form of Dravidian architecture. Although incomplete, it features bold carvings and grand structures like the large sanctum and pillared navaranga (main hall).
Don’t Miss: The lion motifs and dwarapalas (gatekeepers) adorning the temple walls.
# Chandrashekhara Temple Dedicated to: Lord Shiva (as Chandrashekhara)
Architectural Style: Simple South Indian design
Special Feature: A small sanctum and porch
Unlike the grander temples, the Chandrashekhara Temple is minimalistic, offering a tranquil atmosphere with just a sanctum and a small porch.
Ideal for: Meditation or a quiet moment away from crowds.
# Galaganatha Temple Dedicated to: Lord Shiva (as Galaganatha)
Architectural Style: Rekhanagara (Nagara style)
Features: Intricate ceiling carvings, friezes, and depictions of river goddesses
Though partially ruined, the Galaganatha Temple stands out for its fine carvings and the unique Nagara-style tower, in contrast to the Dravidian temples nearby.
Photography Tip: Capture close-up shots of the rare carvings and ceiling details.
# Jambulinga TempleDedicated to: Lord Shiva
Architectural Style: Rekhanagara with a small mandapa
Special Features: Depictions of Shiva with Parvati and Nandi
This modest temple features a square sanctum and refined sculptures, including a remarkable relief of Shiva with Parvati and Nandi, and Vishnu as Narasimha.
Best for: Those seeking intricate art in a compact space.
# Kashi Vishwanatha Temple Dedicated to: Lord Shiva (as Vishwanatha)
Architectural Style: North Indian Nagara style
Highlights: Elegant shikhara and sanctum with a Shiva Linga
Built during the Rashtrakuta period, this temple brings the essence of Varanasi’s Kashi Vishwanath to the south, with its ornate shikhara and subtle detailing.
Pilgrimage Insight: It’s often part of spiritual circuits connecting Pattadakal, Badami, and Aihole.
# Jain Narayana TempleDedicated to: Jain Tirthankaras
Built by: Rashtrakuta King Krishna II (9th century)
Architectural Style: Dravidian with Jain influences
This temple, located on the eastern side of Pattadakal, showcases Jain iconography, including Tirthankara figures. It reflects the inclusive spiritual environment of the Chalukyan rulers, who promoted religious pluralism.
Tip for Cultural Explorers: Examine the pillars and ceiling carvings for Jain iconography.
# Kadasiddheshwara Temple Dedicated to: Lord Shiva
Architectural Style: Early Nagara
Notable Carvings: Ardhanarishvara and Nataraja
Though smaller, the Kadasiddheshwara Temple features significant depictions of Shiva in composite forms, such as Ardhanarishvara (Shiva and Parvati as one) and Nataraja (Shiva as the cosmic dancer).
Perfect for: Researchers and spiritual seekers interested in early temple art experimentation.