Exploring the Badami Cave Temples is one of the essential things to do in Badami karnataka. These four rock-cut temples, carved into the sandstone cliff above the Agastya Tirtha tank, date from the 6th and 7th centuries. Each Badami Karnataka temple is unique: Cave 1 (578 CE) is dedicated to Shiva, with an 18-armed dancing Shiva. Cave 2 is Vishnu-focused with a remarkable relief of Vishnu as Trivikrama. Cave 3 (578 CE) is the largest and most ornate, with a massive Vishnu on Shesha. Cave 4 is Jain, dedicated to the Tirthankaras. All four show the early Chalukya synthesis of north and south Indian architectural styles.

What makes this place special

A 6th-century 18-armed Nataraja — one of the earliest surviving depictions of Shiva’s cosmic dance, a must-see sculpture in Badami karnataka.

Join the discussion with real travelers. Ask questions, share insights, and get the most out of your next adventure.
A monumental relief of Vishnu reclining on the serpent Shesha — a masterpiece of early Chalukyan sculpture found within this Badami Karnataka temple complex.