Situated on the left bank of the Malaprabha river, Pattadakal a World Heritage Centre has 10 major temples representing early Chalukyan architecture.

The biggest temple here is dedicated to Virupaksha. Enclosed in a large quadrangle surrounded by small cells, it has a massive gateway and several inscriptions. Besides scenes from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, there is a wonderful carving designed to look like an elephant from one side and a buffalo from the other. In front of the temple is a majestic 2.6k metres high Nandi. In contrast to the pink - tinged sandstone temples, the Nandi is made of deep green stone and is covered in a red floral cape. The Virupaksha temples is still used for worship.

Stop now at the Mallikarjuna and Papanatha temples delicately chiseled, rich in detail. The inner hall of the Papanatha temple is guarded by Nandi and Virabhadra. There are 16 pillars in the main hall with beautiful carvings.

The Jain Temple here is from the Rashtrakuta Period.

Besides these temples is a group of temples remarkable primarily, for representing two chief styles of Indian architecture, side by side.

The detailed descriptions in the sculptures of the temples give an insight into the social life of those days.

Local Festivals:
The Pattadakal Dance Festival is organized annually by the Government of Karnataka.

Languages Spoken:
Kannada, Hindi, English.

When to go there:
The best time to visit Pattadakal is between October and February.

How to get there
Rail : The nearest Railway Station is Badami, 24 kms away.
Road : Pattadakal is connected by road to: · Aihole (24 kms) · Badami (29 kms)