Aihole - a UNESCO world heritage site
A long awaited trip to the prominent historical site of Karnataka
Marvels of Chalukyan Innovation
In our previous articles on Badami and Pattadakal, we discussed the fascinating history of the Chalukya dynasty and the remarkable temples they built during their reign. Located in the Bagalkot district of Karnataka, Aihole is another significant site that flourished between the 7th and 10th centuries under the Chalukyas. It is approximately 35 km from Badami and just 13 km from Pattadakal.
The architecture of the temples in Aihole is truly mesmerizing. The site is renowned for the origin of a new style of temple architecture, which reflects the artistic vision of the Chalukya dynasty. Aihole showcases not only Hindu temples but also Jain and Buddhist temples, highlighting the cultural and religious diversity of the time. The fusion of North and South Indian architectural styles, along with intricate carvings, is a hallmark of these structures. The storytelling through paintings and carvings adds another layer of richness to the site's historical significance.
If you're planning to visit Badami, Aihole, along with Pattadakal, is a must-see. You can easily cover both of these sites in a half-day tour.
History and mythological story of Aihole
In Hindu mythology, it is believed that Lord Parshurama washed his axe in the Malaprabha River after vanquishing the abusive Kshatriyas, which is said to have turned the soil of the region red.
Local legend also suggests that the name "Aihole" is derived from the phrase "Aihole," meaning "Oh, what a river" in reference to this event.
The town of Aihole has a rich history dating back to the 4th century, having been ruled by various dynasties, including the Chalukyas and the Rashtrakutas. Even in the 11th century, a fort was constructed in Aihole, underscoring the town's cultural and political significance during that period.
Few of the major Temples of Aihole
Durga temple complex
One of the main attractions of Aihole is the spectacular Durga Temple, which immediately captures your attention as soon as you enter the complex. Though named the "Durga Temple," it is actually dedicated to Lord Surya and Lord Vishnu. The temple is believed to have been constructed near a fort, and in the local language, "durg" means fort, which is how the temple got its name.
The Durga Temple was built during the 5th or 6th century, and its unique architectural style sets it apart from other temples constructed by the Chalukyas in Aihole, as well as in Badami and Pattadakal. One of the temple’s standout features is its intricate carvings, which depict stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
In addition to the Durga Temple, the complex also houses a total of seven other Hindu monuments, including the Suryanarayana Temple and a Shiva Temple, adding to the site's historical and architectural significance.
Ambigergudi temple complex
The Ambigeridu Temple is another must-visit site in Aihole, renowned for its intricate carvings and stunning wall designs. The temple complex consists of three distinct monuments, built between the 6th and 11th centuries, showcasing a variety of architectural styles from the different rulers of this period. One of the largest structures within the Ambigeridu Temple complex is dedicated to Lord Surya.
Mallikarjuna temples complex
The Mallikarjuna Temple complex is dedicated to Lord Shiva, but it also features carvings of other deities, including Lord Narasimha and Lord Ganesha, on the temple's internal walls. These intricate carvings add to the temple's rich artistic and religious significance.
Other monuments of Aihole
In addition to the aforementioned temple complexes, Aihole is home to several other notable monuments, including the Jyotirlinga Temple, Jain Basadi Temple, and the Ravana Phadi Cave. These sites are conveniently located just a few minutes apart from each other, making them easy to explore in one visit.
How to reach Aihole
By Air: The nearest airport to Aihole is in Hubli, approximately 136 km away. It’s recommended to pre-book a cab with a local operator, or you can hire one directly at the airport. The drive from Hubli Airport to Aihole typically takes around 3.5 hours.
By Train: The nearest railway station is in Badami, which is well-connected to major cities in Karnataka and Maharashtra. It is around 30 km away from Aihole. From Badami, you can hire an auto-rickshaw to reach Aihole, which takes about 50 to 60 minutes.
By Road: Aihole is a popular tourist destination in Karnataka, and both private and state-run buses are available from nearby cities to the site, making it easily accessible by road.