Badami Cave Temples

Badami Cave Temples are a group of four sanctuaries cut directly into the red sandstone hill above Agastya Lake. The first cave holds a striking eighteen armed Nataraja, the second and third are dedicated to Vishnu with finely carved pillars, and the fourth honours Jain Tirthankaras including Mahavira. Built by the Chalukyas between the sixth and eighth centuries, the caves showcase an early blend of Nagara and Dravidian styles. Sunset lights up the sandstone in deep rust tones, making evenings the best time to visit.