The exquisite temples of Pattadakal and Badami in the southern state of Karnataka are yet another illustration of the rich and unique heritage of India. Located less than 500 km from Bangalore, the temples at Pattadakal and Badami demonstrate excellence of the Chalukyan School of Architecture and date between the fifth and eighth century AD.… Continue reading Pattadakal and Badami: Evolution of Chalukyan temple architecture
The ancient town of Gangaikonda Cholapuram dates back to the 11th century when it was founded by the great king Rajendra Chola. Established to commemorate his victory over Mahipala, the Pala king of Bengal and Bihar, the city was established as the capital of the Chola empire shifting it from Tanjore. It is said that… Continue reading Brihadeeswarar temple, Gangaikonda Cholapuram: a symbol of triumph and architectural celebration
The bustling town of Chidambaram in Tamil Nadu is home to a number of temples and is an important pilgrimage centre. While the soul of the town is the renowned Thillai Nataraja temple, there are a number of rare and stunning temples in and around the town. One such unique temple is the Bhoovaraga Swamy… Continue reading Bhoovaraga Swamy temple, Srimushnam: of piety and communal harmony
Beautiful stone pillars, exquisite architecture, elaborate ceilings and remarkable sculptures were just some of the things that had me totally awe inspired when I visited the Tarakeshwara temple in Hangal. The town ruled by the Kadamba dynasty till the 11th century was later controlled by the Hoysalas and then the Chalukayas in the 12th century.… Continue reading Tarakeshwara temple, Hangal – an architectural marvel
Located just under 60 km from Bangalore, is the remarkable Bhoga Nandeshwara temple in the quaint village of Nandi. One of the oldest temples in Karnataka, the place is located at the foot hills of the popular Nandi hills and is a great idea for a day trip from Bangalore. What struck me was not… Continue reading Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple: an ancient wonder
While the magnificence and ornate architecture of the Hoysala temples is, usually, synonomous with the temples of Belur and Halebidu, a visit to the sleepy hamlet of Mosale proved me wrong. Located just about 15 km from Hassan, on the Hassan-Holenarasipura Road, the twin temples found in this village is a definitely a hidden gem. The ancient… Continue reading Nageshvara-Chennakeshava temple: monumental twin temples of Mosale
