Overview
Aihole, situated in Bagalkot, Karnataka, is a historical site adorned with over 125 stunning Chalukyan temples and monuments. The area was once the capital of the Chalukya Dynasty and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Nestled among breathtaking sandstone hills and villages on the banks of the Malaprabha River, Aihole is a prominent hub for temple architecture and intricate stonework. With a rich history dating back to the 6th to 12th century, this picturesque village is steeped in Hindu mythology and also features rock-cut Buddhist monuments and a monastery dedicated to Lord Buddha. Together with the nearby towns of Pattadakkal and Badami, Aihole forms a vast circuit for experiencing the grandeur of Chalukyan architecture, offering a plethora of remarkable monuments such as the Durga Temple, Lad Khan Temple, Ravanaphadi Cave Temples, Huchimalli Temple, Meganagudi group, Gowda Temple, and the Huchappayyagudi Temple.
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How to Reach Aihole
By Air
- The city is served by a major international airport with numerous direct flights from major cities around the world.
- Upon arrival at the airport, travelers can easily find ground transportation options such as taxis, shuttle services, and rental cars to reach their accommodations in the city.
By Train
- The city's central train station serves as a major hub for both domestic and international train services.
- Travelers can enjoy comfortable and efficient train journeys from nearby cities and beyond.
By Road
- To get to the city by road, use the well-maintained highways and roads that connect the city to the surrounding areas.
- Follow the signs directing you towards the city center from the nearest major highway.
Places to Visit in Aihole
Shri Durga Temple Complex
4.6 (2,489)
Located in the culturally rich village of Aihole in Karnataka, the Durga Temple stands as a testament to the architectural marvels of ancient India. Dating back to the 7th-8th century, this Dravidian gem was constructed during the rule of the Chalukyan kings, showcasing intricate craftsmanship and a...
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Aihole Museum
4.4 (374)
Nestled within the Durga temple complex in the historic town of Aihole, the Aihole Museum offers a fascinating journey into the rich cultural heritage of Karnataka. Operated by the Archaeological Survey of India, this museum was transformed from a sculpture shed into a well-organized exhibition spac...
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Ravana Phadi
4.6 (201)
Nestled in the quaint village of Aihole in Karnataka, India, the Ravanaphadi Cave Temples offer a glimpse into the rich history and architectural prowess of the Chalukya dynasty dating back to the 6th century. Carved out of sandstone, these ancient rock-cut cave temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva a...
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The Meguti Jain Temple
4.5 (138)
Perched atop a hill in the quaint town of Aihole, Karnataka, the Meguti Jain Temple stands as a remarkable testament to the architectural and cultural legacy of the Chalukya dynasty. Dating back to 634 AD, this historical and religious edifice offers visitors a glimpse into the early phases of Jaini...
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Lad Khan Temple
4.4 (103)
Nestled in the historic town of Aihole in Karnataka, India, the Lad Khan Temple stands as a remarkable testament to the early stages of Hindu temple architecture. Dating back to the 5th century, this ancient temple is among the earliest structures built by the Chalukyas, showcasing their pivotal rol...
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Things to do in Aihole
Explore Aihole Temples
Discover the ancient Aihole temples located to the south-west of the Ravanaphadi Caves in Karnataka. Dating back to the 8th to 10th century, this group of temples showcases Kadambanagara towers and inscriptions from the Kalyana Chalukya period, offering a glimpse into the rich history and architectu...
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Explore Aihole Temple
Discover the ancient Aihole Temple, built in the 7th century and dedicated to Lord Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma. Situated north of the village of Aihole, the temple showcases a steep water well and intricate carvings of Karttikeya and his attendants. Admire depictions of Brahma, Garuda, Surya, as well ...
Read MoreExplore the Durga Temple of Aihole
Embark on a visit to the Durga Temple of Aihole, known as the cradle of temples in Karnataka. This ancient Dravidian structure, dating back to the 7th-8th century, was built during the rule of the Chalukyan kings in South India. The temple's graceful design, featuring pillars leading up to the sanct...
Read MoreExplore Aihole Archaeological Museum
Discover the Aihole Archaeological Museum, situated within the Durga temple complex and managed by the Archaeological Survey of India. Originally established as a sculpture shed, it was transformed into a well-organized museum in 1987. The museum showcases stone sculptures representing Brahmanical, ...
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Explore the Kontigudi Group of Temples
Head to Aihole in Karnataka to explore the Kontigudi group of temples, which consists of four separate temples dating back to the 7th century with later additions. These temples are situated in the heart of the Aihole Bazaar, offering a glimpse into ancient architectural and religious history.
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Best Time to Visit Aihole
The best time to visit Aihole is during the cooler months of October to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the numerous temples and monuments in the area.
FAQs on Aihole
What is the local food in Aihole?
Aihole offers a limited selection of restaurants serving mostly vegetarian South-Indian food. Visitors can also arrange for accommodation and dining in nearby Badami, which is just a 40-minute drive away, and offers a wider range of culinary options. Local delicacies in the area include Dosa, Bisi Bele Bath, Akki Roti, Jolada Roti, Idli, Vada, Sambhar, and Mysore pak.
What are the places near Aihole?
Nearby attractions include Hampi (98 km), Pattadakal (10 km), Badami (24 km), Goa (227 km), and Gokarna (234 km).
What are the things to do in Aihole?
Key attractions in Aihole include the Durga Temple, Lad Khan Temple, Ravanaphadi Cave Temples, Archaeological Museum, Hucchimalli Temple, and Huchappayyagudi Temple. For a full list of places to visit in Aihole, click here.
How much does a package cost for Aihole?
Aihole packages start at INR 4100 and can be customized based on group size, duration, hotel category, vehicle type, and other preferences. For details on available packages, please refer to the website.
What is the best way to reach Aihole?
Aihole does not have its own airport or railway station, so the city can only be accessed by road. The nearest airports are located in Goa and Belgaum, while the closest railway station is in Bagalkot. The city is well-connected by road, with regular bus services available.
What is the best time to visit Aihole?
The ideal time to visit Aihole is from October to March, as summers can be extremely hot with temperatures reaching up to 35 degrees Celsius. Additionally, the months of July, August, and September experience heavy rainfall, which may hinder sightseeing activities.
Who should visit Aihole?
Aihole is a perfect destination for history enthusiasts and architecture aficionados. It is also suitable for family vacations and solo trips.
What is not so good about Aihole?
One drawback of Aihole is the limited availability of quality hotels and dining options.
What is famous about Aihole?
Aihole is renowned for being home to over 125 temples, showcasing exquisite architectural designs.
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