Banashankari Temple
Located in Cholachagudd, the Banashankari Temple is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in North Karnataka. Dedicated to Goddess Banashankari (an incarnation of Parvati), the temple was originally built by the 7th-century Chalukyas. The name 'Banashankari' comes from 'Vana' (forest) and 'Shank ari' (consort of Shiva), as the temple was originally located in a dense forest. The present structure reflects a mix of Vijayanagara and Maratha styles after being rebuilt in the 18th century. The temple is famous for its large water tank called Haridra Tirtha, which is surrounded by stone walkways. The idol of the Goddess is carved out of black stone and depicts her sitting on a lion, trampling a demon. The temple attracts thousands of devotees, especially during the annual fair (Jatre) in January. It is a living temple where rituals are performed daily with great devotion. Visiting this temple provides a look into the vibrant religious culture of the region, contrasting with the quiet ruins of the caves. The atmosphere is filled with the scent of incense and the sound of temple bells.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
Duration: 1. 5 Hours.Place Type:
Category: Religious.Entry Fees:
Entry: Free for all visitors.
Special Seva: Nominal charges for specific rituals or poojas.
Parking: Small fee for vehicles in the temple complex. ...Entry: Free for all visitors.
Special Seva: Nominal charges for specific rituals or poojas.
Parking: Small fee for vehicles in the temple complex.Best Photo Spots:
The Temple Tank: The vast pond with the temple in the background.
The Deepastambha: The massive lamp towers at the entrance.
The Idol: While photography inside the sanctum is restricted, the exterior is very...The Temple Tank: The vast pond with the temple in the background.
The Deepastambha: The massive lamp towers at the entrance.
The Idol: While photography inside the sanctum is restricted, the exterior is very photogenic.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Pilgrimage: Join the devotees in offering prayers to the Goddess.
Temple Fair: Visit during January to experience the local culture and street food.
Photography: Capture the reflections of the temple in the Haridra Tirtha.
Shopping: Buy local handicrafts and vermillion from the stalls outside.
Bird Watching: Many water birds can be seen near the temple tank.
Cultural Immersion: Observe the local 'Devanga' community's rituals.
Walk around the Tank: Take a peaceful walk along the stone steps of the pond.
Feeding the Fish: Many pilgrims feed the fish in the sacred tank.
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Information
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Why Famous:
The Jatre: The annual fair in January/February is one of the largest in the state.
Haridra Tirtha: The massive sacred tank with its surrounding stone corridors. ...The Jatre: The annual fair in January/February is one of the largest in the state.
Haridra Tirtha: The massive sacred tank with its surrounding stone corridors. -
Architecture:
Mix of Dravidian, Vijayanagara, and Maratha styles.
Dimensions: The temple features a large square tank of 360 feet. The main tower (Vimana) is ornate. The entrance features high lamp pillars (Deepastambhas) which are unique to this region. ...Mix of Dravidian, Vijayanagara, and Maratha styles.
Dimensions: The temple features a large square tank of 360 feet. The main tower (Vimana) is ornate. The entrance features high lamp pillars (Deepastambhas) which are unique to this region. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Hubli Airport (125 KM).
By Train: Badami Railway Station is the closest.
By Road: Located on the road to Gadag, 5 KM from Badami.
Local Transport: Easily reachable b... -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Badami Caves (5. 2 KM). 2. Agastya Lake (5 KM). 3. Bhutanatha Temple (5. 5 KM). 4. Badami Fort (5. 5 KM). 5. Mahakuta (12 KM). 6. Pattadakal (18 KM). 7. Aihole (30 KM). 8. Shivayogamandir (10 KM). 9. Bagalkot (40 KM). 10. Gadag (70 KM).
Tourism Tips
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Health and Safety: The temple can get very crowded during festivals; keep your belongings safe.
Packing: Modest clothing is required for entry; carry a scarf or shawl.
Connectivity: Good mobile signal; so...
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