The landscapes, flora, fauna, and historical legacy of Karnataka are some of the best in the country. Some of Karnataka’s wealthiest rulers have left behind many historical locations in Karnataka & archaeological riches. Those interested in archaeology and history and other tourists from around the world will love seeing this ancient site, which has been inhabited since Paleolithic times.
Over time, many empires have held power in this region: Nandas; Mauryans, Satavahana; Kadamba; Western Gangas; Badami Chalukya; Rashtrakutas; and Cholas. As a result, Karnataka is brimming with historical landmarks that remain alive with stories and traditions of the royals and remain fragrant with the imprints they left behind.
See 10 Best Historical Monuments of Karnataka:
1. Gol Gumbaz
Gol Gumbaz, often called Gol Gumbad, is the Sultan of the Bijapur Muhammad Adil Shah’s mausoleum. The second-largest dome ever constructed, this tomb is one of Karnataka’s most popular tourist attractions.
The center chamber, where every noise is echoed seven times, has an Indo-Islamic feel and is one of the monument’s most appealing features. Because of the monument’s dark stone and structural resemblance to Agra’s Taj Mahal has been dubbed “the Black Taj Mahal”. The mausoleum’s 1700-square-meter room is the largest in the building. Its magnificent architectural design is a significant historical landmark in Karnataka.
2. Badami Caves, Bagalkot
The Badami Caves are a collection of four temple caves in Karnataka’s northern region. For centuries, they were known as the Vatapi caverns, erected by Chalukya monarchs in the 6th century. The name ‘Badami’ comes from the Hindi word ‘badam,’ which means almond in English. Pilgrims must ascend 2000 stairs to reach the temples built into a hillside.
The Hindu gods Lord Shiva & Lord Vishnu have cave temples dedicated to them in the first three, while the Jain leader Mahavir has a cave shrine in the fourth. One hundred years after completing the first three, work began on the fourth temple. Another UNESCO world heritage site, the Badami Caves complex, is a popular tourist destination in Karnataka.
To get to the Badami Caves in Bagalkot, you can fly into Belgaum or Hubli, take a train from Hubli or Bangalore, or drive from one of those cities or the other ones listed above.
3. Bijapur
Bijapur is a must-see historical site in North Karnataka because of the world-famous Gol Gumbaz and Gol Gummata. The city’s name comes from the large circular dome of Mohammed Adil Shah’s mausoleum. One of India’s most giant domes, Gol Gumbaz, is a massive monolithic monolith that stands alone.
The city is home to a slew of important Karnataka historical landmarks. Bijapur’s most notable attractions include Shivagiri, Jama Masjid, and Bara Kaman. Bijapur is an excellent starting point for day trips to other obscure historical sites in Karnataka.
4. Srirangapatna
Located on the island of Srirangapatna, the Ranganathaswamy Temple is one of India’s most renowned temples. It honors Lord Vishnu’s avatar Ranganatha, who is the inspiration for the project. It is regarded as part of the Pancharanga Kshetram (five most significant temples consecrated to Lord Vishnu) in the South Indian region. Adi Ranga is the name given to the Temple’s presiding god since it is the earliest Temple upstream.
Lord Vishnu’s reclining statue is the centerpiece of the main Temple. As the serpent Adishesha Naag coils around its seven-headed idol, so do the idols. At the base is a golden Lakshmi idol. Smaller temples to Narasimha, Garuda, Gopalkrishna, and Hanuman may also be found inside the complex’s walls.
5. Mysore
Mysore, today known as Mysuru, was formerly known as the “City of Palaces”, and it’s fair to say that it holds a unique position in the history of India’s kings. Intricate architecture, the world-famous silk sarees, yoga, and sandalwood are just a few of the many cultural treasures to be found here. Mysore Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see on any visit to the city.
The palace drips with wealth and splendor, and each room you visit features ornate architecture and paintings in various rich hues and stained-glass windows that stand out. During Dussehra and every Sunday, the palace is illuminated stunningly.
6. Gomateshwara, Shravanabelagola
This state has a rich history, which has resulted in a slew of well-known tourist sites such as monuments. Here is one more breathtaking landmark: a magnificent 57-foot-tall statue of Gomateshwar. Known as Bahubali, it is one of Karnataka’s most impressive and must-see landmarks.
While it is a stunning piece of art, the ritual with this enormous statue makes it much more appealing. Observing the 12-year practice of bathing the lord in milk, saffron, turmeric, or other sacred ingredients is awe-inspiring. Karnataka heritage tours must include a stop here as one of their most memorable highlights.
7. Pattadakal Monuments
Pattadakal’s monuments are an essential draw for heritage tourism in the state of Karnataka, which has a rich cultural history. Pattadakal’s temples are known for their blend of electric stone art and architecture. Â These structures, built in the 7th and 8th centuries, have hosted several historical events, including the “Pattadakisuvolal” crowning of the Chalukya dynasty monarchs.
The Mallikarjuna and Virupaksha temples in Pattadakal, built by Vikramaditya II’s wives to commemorate their husband’s victory over the South Indian monarchs, are included in the temple’s collection. Virupaksha temple, one of Karnataka’s most popular tourist destinations, was previously known as Lokeshwara.
8. Halebidu
As one of Karnataka’s most well-known historical sites, Halebidu can be found in the Hassan district. During the 12th century, the city served as the capital of the Hoysala Empire. It is no surprise that Halebidu’s temples and monuments show traces of Hoysala architecture.
Its temples and shrines are awe-inspiring and breathtaking. Halebidu’s must-see historical landmarks are the temples dedicated to Hoysaleshwara and Kedareshwara.
9. Hassan
There are numerous Hoysala temples in the city of Hassan in the state of Karnataka. This ancient site’s name comes from the Hindu deity Hasanamba. Several Jain temples and a few churches are open to the public in Hassan, and the Temple of the Goddess is a major draw. In Hassan, there is no shortage of things to see and do.
10. Somnathpur
The temple of Somnathpura, also known as the Prasanna Chennakeseva Temple or the Kesava temple, is renowned for preserving the Hoysala architectural style. The Somnathapur temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna and built-in 1285, is one of Karnataka’s most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites.
Conclusion
There are numerous historical sites in Karnataka that you can visit. Start your South India Tour with the Historical Karnataka Tour with customized tour packages.
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