Around Hampi
Nowhere else can you find such a profusion of monuments as around Hampi. The magnificent world heritage sites at Hampi and Pattadakkal, the cave temples of Badami the exquisite temples at Aihole and the stately Forts, Domes and minarets of Bijapur resurrect the state's history and cultural affluence. These peerless wonders are eloquent reminders of a rich heritage. Add to this list the Kudala Sangama, Tungabhadra Dam historical town and fortress of Anegundi, unique Sloth Bear sanctuary all of which reflects the regions history and glory
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Anegundi
The historical town and fortress of Anegundi once formed the northern outpost of the Vijayanagara empire. Its ruins which now lie scattered along the north bank of the Tungabhadra River just opposite Hampi, include civil buildings, temples, may lines of fortifications and gateways that seem to be entrances to fantasy land. This region around Hampi is also closely associated with the Hindu Epic Ramayana.The mythical kingdom of the monkeys is portrayed around this region. Anjanadri Hill, is believed Packed with a dozen or so temples of varying sizes and antiquity, Pattadakal is one of the unique places to see that many temples of the early Chalukyan architecture. |
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Badami
Badami was the capital of the early Chalukyas, who ruled much of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh between the 6th and 8th centuries. It was founded in 540 A.D. by Pulakesi I(535-566 AD), an early ruler of the Chalukyas. Badami is famous for its four cave temples - all hewn out of sand stone on the precipice of a hill. Legend has it there were two demon siblings Vatapi and Ilvala, who had a trick by which they could kill and make a meal of mendicants passing by. Their tricks worked until Agastya muni came by and counter-tricked them and brought an end to Vatapi's life. Two of the hills in Badami are supposed to represent the demons Ilvalan and Vatapi. |
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Aihole
Early inscriptions call this town Ayyavole and Aryapura. Aihole has its own historical significance and is called as cradle of ancient Hindu stone architecture. Many temples and caves of historical importance can be found at Aihole. Aihole was the first capital of the early Chalukyas. Here they built over 125 temples in various styles and is said to be a laboratory of experiments in rock cut architecture. It is from these temples that the Chalukyas gained their experience and went on to build the great temples of Pattadakal. The first phase of temple building in Aihole dates back to the 6th century CE, the second phase up to the 12th century. Some temples were even built as early as the 5th century. |
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Pattadakal Pattadakal is renowned for the group of the 8th century monuments which are listed in the UNESCO's list of World Heritage Sites. Located on the banks of the river Malaprabha, Pattadakal is the capital of the Chalukya rulers. It was here that the Chalukya kings were crowned, in the middle of the 7th century. western outskirts of the city lies the Ibrahim Roza, which is said to have inspired the Taj Mahal in Agra. Anand Mahal, Mehtar Mahal, Bara Kaman, Gagan Mahal, Amin Durgah, Assar Mahal, Chota Asar, Faroukh Mahal, Jahz Mahal, Jod Gumba are few other sites of Architectural interest. |
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Stone Age Colony This 5000 year old 'Stone Age colony were built before the discovery of the metal tools. The Maurya Mane was the home of Dwarfs. A unique construction made from huge slabs of solid rocks, numerous clear cave paintings are contained here. This unique and astonishingly beautiful area of natural wilderness is home to the crocodile, leopard, great owl, sloth bear, langur monkey, turtles and nearly 200 varieties of birds. A vast colony of Neolithic dwellings still untouched. Waiting to welcome you. |
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Bear Sanctuary
The unique Sloth Bear sanctuary is situated very close to Hampi. Situated only 25km kilometers from Hospet, Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary is the only sanctuary in North Karnataka.Though the sanctuary is relatively new, which began in 1994, it has proved to be a suitable habitat for the Indian Sloth Bears in a span of few years. The rock-strewn hillocks that stretch between Daroji and Ramasagar of Hospet have been the abode of Indian Sloth Bears since ages. It is estimated that about 120 Sloth Bears are living in this sanctuary, apart from Leopards, Hyena, Jackals, Wild Boars, Porcupine, Pangolins, Star Tortoise, Monitor Lizard, Mongoose, Pea Fowls, Partridges, Painted Spur Hen, Quails etc. About 90 species of birds, and 27 species of butterflies have also been identified in this sanctuary in a preliminary survey. |
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Tungabhadra Dam
TB Dam, which is the largest dam in Karnataka, is located approximately 5 km from Hospet. It is constructed across river Tungabhadra. This lighthouse is one of the best places to have an eye-catching view of the environment. Recreation facilities in the form of fountains, beautiful walks, a children's park, an aquarium and a musical fountain offer some leisure options at the foot of the dam. The best time for the tourist to visit Tungabhadra dam is during the month of August. All the 33 gates of the dam are opened on 15 of August. Generally, the dam is full with water during these days and when the water is released out, it flows in a symobolism of the celebration of the Independence Day. You might be lucky one if you reach here in the month of August. |
