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Cradle
Of Indian Architecture Located 43 Kms from Kudala Sangama, Aihole was the
ancient capital of Chalukyas. Famous as the cradle of "Indian
Architecture", Aihole has over a hundred temples scattered around the
village.
There are about 125 temples divided into 22 groups scattered all over the
villages and nearby fields. Most of these temples were built between the
6th & 8th centuries and some even earlier.
The Legend
The name Aihole has an interesting story behind it. According to one
legend, Parashurama after avenging the murder of his father came to the
Malaprabha and washed his axe here. The river is said to have turned red
causing him to exclaim "ai, ai! holi!" (ah, the river!).
PRIME ATTRACTIONS
Lad Khan Temple:
The oldest temple here is perhaps, the Lad Khan temple dating back to the
5th Century. Originally a royal assembly hall and marriage mandapa, a
Muslim official converted it into his residence. On the roof of the main
temple is another shrine-like vimana.
The Durga (Fort)
Temple:
It is notable for its semi-circular apse, elevated plinth and the gallery
that encircles the sanctum. Fascinating carvings of Chamundi Devi
trampling the buffalo demon; Narasimha, the 'half-man-half-lion god'; the
Ardhanari, half man and half woman deity; Mahishasura Mardini and many
more sculptures can be seen here.
Hutchimalli Temple:
The temple on the outskirts of the village has a sculpture of lord Vishnu
sitting atop a large cobra.
Ravalphadi Cave:
Dedicated to Shiva, the cave is remarkable for its details. Dating back to
6th century, the cave celebrated the various forms of Shiva.
Not-to-be-missed are the Konthi Temple Complex (Kwanthi Gudi), the Uma
Maheswari Temple with a beautifully carved Brahma seated on a lotus, the
austere Jain Meguti Temple and the two storeyed Buddhist Temple.
TRAVEL INFORMATION
HOW TO GET THERE
Rail:
The Nearest Railway station is Bagalkot.
Road:
Aihole is connected by road to:
Pattadakal (17 kms), Badami (46
kms) Bangalore
(438 kms).
Local Transport:
Cycle Rickshaws, Tongas, City Bus Service.
WHERE TO STAY
Tourist Rest House, Aihole, Hungund Taluk.
Tourist Rest Houses of Tourism Department.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Languages: Kannada, Hindi and English.
STD Code: 08351