Aihole

Aihole, the cradle of ancient Hindu temple architecture

Aihole was the first capital of the early Chalukyas. During this period the artisans experimented with both Nagara and Dravidian styles of architecture.

The Aihole Temple Complex has now been recommended to UNESCO to be classified as a World Heritage Site.

Durga Temple

This apsidal temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, with a curvilinear Nagara style shikhara was built in the 8th Century.

Durga Temple

The name “Durga” actually refers to the fort around the temple and not to the goddess.

Durga Temple – looks like a Chorten

There are intricate carvings all through the temple.

Nagaraja Ceiling

Gandharva Ceiling

Narasimha, the fourth avatar of Vishnu

Near the curve

Varaha, the third avatar of Vishnu

Mahishasura Mardini

Ladkhan Temple

Located to the south of the Durga Temple, this shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva was built in the 8th Century.

Ladkhan Temple

Lad Khan was a sufi saint who used the temple as his residence.

Ladkhan Temple

The windows are covered with beautiful lattice work.

Chalukya Emblem

Ravanaphadi

This 6th Century cave temple is one of the oldest structures in Aihole.

Ravanaphadi

This interiors of this temple are covered with intricately carved sculptures depicting episodes from the Puranas.

Bhagiratha

Varaha, the third avatar of Vishnu

Mahishasur Mardini

Meguti Temple

This Dravidian style temple, atop a small hill overlooking Aihole village, was built in 634 AD.

Meguti Temple

The temple provides panoramic views of Aihole village from the top.

View from the temple

Main Shrine