Monkey sitting on ancient stone carved temple in Badami fort, Karnataka,India.

Karnataka

Malegitti Shivalaya Fort

View of the Upper Shivalaya temple on Badami fort as seen from the Badami cave temple complex in Karnataka in India
Monkey sitting on ancient stone carved temple in Badami fort, Karnataka,India.
View of the Upper Shivalaya temple on Badami fort as seen from the Badami cave temple complex in Karnataka in India
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Major Airports :

Kalaburagi Airport (GBI), Kalaburagi

Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), Bengaluru

Hubballi Airport (HBX), Hubballi

Nearest Railway Station :

Badami Railway Station (BDM)

Major Airports :

Kalaburagi Airport (GBI), Kalaburagi

Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), Bengaluru

Hubballi Airport (HBX), Hubballi

Sacred marvel amidst the rocks

Mallegitti Shivalaya is 6th century rock-cut Hindu temple located in Badami, a town in the Bagalkot district of Karnataka, India. It is one of the most impressive and well-preserved examples of Indian rock-cut architecture from the 6th century CE.

The iconic temple was carved out of a single monolithic sandstone hill during the reign of the Chalukya dynasty which ruled over parts of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh between 6th and 8th centuries CE. One wonders how did the artisans of the time carve this stunning cave temple out of a massive sandstone cliff with just hammers and chisels.

As you enter the dimly lit cave, you are greeted by intricately carved pillars and ceilings adorned with mythological figures and intricate patterns. The main shrine, dedicated to Lord Shiva, features a beautifully sculpted lingam, surrounded by other deities and celestial figures, all carved with meticulous detail.

The architectural style of the temple combines elements of the North Indian Nagara style and South Indian Dravida traditions, reflecting the diverse cultural influences of the Chalukya era. The temple complex features intricate carvings on the walls, pillars, and ceilings depicting Hindu deities, mythological figures, and scenes from epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata.

The temple complex features intricate carvings on the walls, pillars, and ceilings depicting Hindu deities, mythological figures, and scenes from epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata. The temple complex features intricate carvings on the walls, pillars, and ceilings depicting Hindu deities, mythological figures, and scenes from epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Do not miss the large Nataraja depicting Lord Shiva as the cosmic dancer sculpture and friezes depicting the Ramayana while you explore the temple premises. Despite its ancient origins, the temple is remarkably well-preserved, with minimal structural damage over the centuries.

With so much to offer to a traveller especially if you fond of history and architecture, Malegitti Shivalaya of Badami should definitely be on your bucket list.

The journey to Mallegitti Shivalaya

By Air: The nearest airport to Badami is the Hubli Airport, which is around 110 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to travel to Badami.

By Train: The closest major railway station is Badami, which is well-connected to major cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Mumbai. Direct trains are available from these cities to Badami.

If you're traveling from other parts of the country, you can take a train to Hubli Junction and then hire a taxi or take a bus to cover the remaining distance of around 35 km to Badami.

By Road: Badami is well-connected by road to major cities in Karnataka and neighboring states.

It is 490 kilometers from Bengaluru and it takes approximately 7-8 hours to reach Badami by road. From Hyderabad Badami is 320 km away and can be reached in 5-6 hours. Badami is around 380 kilometers from Goa and the trip to Badami takes 6-7 hours.

Once you reach Badami, the Malegitti Shivalaya is located within the town and can be easily accessed by hiring an auto-rickshaw or a local taxi. Be sure to plan your journey in advance and check for the latest travel advisories and schedules before planning your trip to Malegitti Shivalaya.


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Timings

Opening time - 06:30 AM

Closing time - 05:30 PM

Explore beyond Mallegitti Shivalaya

The Badami Cave Temples complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It consists of four rock-cut cave temples dating back to the 6th century, including the famous Badami Cave Temples dedicated to Hindu and Jain faiths.

The Bhutanatha Group of Temples date back to the 7th-century rock-cut temples and is located near Mallegitti Shivalaya. These temples are notable for their intricate carvings and sculptures depicting Hindu deities.

The Badami Fort is an ancient fort built on a hill overlooking the town, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area and the Agastya Lake.

Do visit the Dattatreya Temple, a unique 7th-century rock-cut temple dedicated to the Hindu deity Dattatreya, featuring intricate carvings and sculptures.

Pattadakal 22 km from Badami is another UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its 7th and 8th-century Hindu and Jain temples, showcasing the architectural genius of the Chalukya dynasty.

Aihole often referred to as the "Cradle of Indian Architecture," is a mere 35 kilometres away and is home to over 125 temples and monuments dating back to the 6th century, including the famous Durga Temple and Ravana Phadi Cave.

Banashankari Amma Temple approximately 60 kilometres from Badami is an ancient temple located in Badami Taluka and is dedicated to the goddess Banashankari. It is a popular pilgrimage site.

The quaint town of Mahakuta 80 km away houses the famous Mahakuteswara Temple, a 6th-century rock-cut temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, featuring impressive carvings and sculptures.

The beautiful beaches of Goa are 380 kilometres and just a few hours’ drive away.

With its rich cultural heritage, stunning rock-cut architecture, and proximity to other historical sites, the Mallegitti Shivalaya and its surrounding areas make for an exciting trip taking one back in time.

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