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Aihole is located in Karnataka state of India. The town holds a lot of historical importance and is also referred to as the ‘cradle of Hindu rock Architecture’. The town houses a number of ancient caves and temples and is a popular tourist destination in the northern parts of the country.
The town is located on the banks of the River Malaprabha, and is surrounded by numerous temples throughout the nearby areas. It was also the capital town during the Chalukyan reign. The name of this place is believed to have originated from a Hindu mythology related to Lord Parashuram.
Over one hundred and twenty five temples, which reflect the architectural styles of the Chalukyas, and which were built between the sixth and twelfth centuries, form a range of ancient and historical monuments. One can observe the architectural and historical monuments related to the early Western Chalukyan periods in this small town. A large number of devotees travel here to this quaint small village to visit the temples.
History of Aihole
The history of this small town in Karnataka roots back to the early Chalukyan period. The temple located here date back up to the 6th century, a few of them have even been believed to have been built in the 5th century. The temples were later constructed in the 12th century. These temples demonstrate the Chalukyan architecture styles.
Special attractions in and around Aihole
- Lad Khan Temple: This Shiva temple is amongst the most popular temples in Aihole and is believed to have been built in the seventh or eighth century.
- Huchappayyagudi Temple: This popular temple demonstrates beautiful carvings inside it.
- Huchimalligudi Temple: This famous temple was built in the seventh century.
- Durga Temple: It is also referred to as ‘fortress temple’ is the most popular temple located in Aihole.
- Ravanaphadi temple: This famous rock cut temple was built in the sixth century and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Gowda Temple: This is a popular temple dedicated to goddess Bhagwati.
- The Museum & Art Gallery: This gallery is located in the Durga Temple complex.
- Suryanarayana Temple: This is ancient temple which roots back to the seventh or eighth century and houses a statue of Surya.
Best Time to Visit Aihole
The most favorable months to visit Aihole are between October and March.
Location
State: Karnataka
District: Bagalkot
Distance from nearest cities: The closest city is Bagalkot, which is located around 34 kilometers from Aihole.
How to reach Aihole
Nearest airport: The nearest airport is at Belgaum, which is located at a distance of approximately 189 kilometers.
Nearest railway stations: The nearest railway station is Bagalkot, which is located at a distance of approximately 34 kilometers.
Directions by road from nearby cities: Aihole is well connected by bus from Badami and Bangalore.
Tourism Department
Department of Tourism
# 64, St. Marks Road,
Bangalore - 560 001
Karnataka, India
Ph: 91-080-2236854.
Climatic Conditions:
Aihole experiences a hot and dry tropical climate, with hot and humid summers and mild winters
Clothing:
Light cotton clothes in summers and light woolens in winters are recommended.
Tourist attractions near Aihole
- Pattadakal: The place is related to the Chalukyan period and houses several temples which represent the architecture from that period. It is located around 22 kilometers from Aihole.
- Badami caves: This place houses popular rock cut temples and is related to the Chalukyan period. It is located around 44 kilometers from Aihole.
- Koodalasangama: The place house magnificent shrines of the Hindus, which represent the Chalukyan architecture. It is located around 44 kilometers from Aihole.
This article was contributed by Abhay Tandon
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