Badami

An ancient town adorned with spectacular yesteryear’s caves, fortresses, temples and ancient dramatic carvings, Badami portrays the picture of imperial India. Badami is a perfect place for those interested in exploring the culture, temples, art and architecture of South India. The archaeological museum of Badami houses sculptures of different eras and displays an unspoilt picture of the country. With comfortable accommodation options, wonderful historical attractions, superb eating and shopping venues and defining itself as an excellent adventurous spot, Badami has it all to spellbind tourists from across the world.

Badami is an ancient city in the Bagalkot district of the Indian state of Karnataka. Almond colour stones are found here, and there is strong belief the name of the city comes from colour of its stone, Badami (almond). Kannada is the official language of Badami, though Hindi and English are also spoken and understood widely in the city. Locals generally prefer wearing traditional Indian cotton outfits. Badami is a good spot for trekking, climbing and cave exploration. The city has a cave temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, which is the largest in the country. Read our below sections for more tourist information.

September to February

Sightseeing in Badami is filled with excitement, fun and enjoyment. The city has several places for tourists to explore like gardens, parks, historical monuments, religious places and lakes etc. Take a look at some of those attractions:

South Indian foods are mostly served in the city, though there are multi-cuisine restaurants in the city that serve continental and North Indian cuisines as well. Badami popularly serves local cuisines, which includes a variety of rice dishes, chutney and snacks. Geeta Darshani and Banashree Veg Restaurant, located on the Station Road serves tasty vegetarian food.

Badami is heaven for shoppers. The place is famous for its handicrafts and rugs. Metal lamps, inlay works, sandalwood sculptures, rosewood carvings and beautiful silk saris. For proper village feeling and authentic local items at an affordable price, shop from the village shops. Local hand-made jewellery is a great souvenir to take back home. Hire a tourist guide or buy a city guide map to locate the local shops in Badami.

Travelling to Badami is easy and convenient, with the city being connected by three major transportation routes – air, rail and road. If planning to fly to Badami, Belgaum is the nearest airport located about 140 km. from the town. Regular trains to Badami are also available, connecting major cities of India with the town. If taking a train, Badami has a small station located about 5 km. from the main city, though it is recommended to board a train to Hubli Railway Station which is about 100 km. away. You can also try the road option. The city is well-connected to all the major places of South India. The state transport buses are available for locals as well as tourists to explore the tourist places of the city.

Other attractions of Badami include the Archaeological Museum, Papanatha Temple, Banashankari Temple, Bhagavati Temple and Mahakuta.

Pattadakal (about 22 km.) – A village in Karnataka, Pattadakal houses impressive Hindu and Jain temples. It displays the architectural wonders of the country. Aihole (about 34 km.) – Houses around 125 temples beautiful temples built in different styles. It was the first capital of early Chalukyas. Basavana Bagevadi (about 108 km.) – It is an important pilgrim spot that you can consider visiting near Badami.