About
The Bhutanatha group of temples stands on the banks of the Agastya Lake (Agastya Tirtha) in Badami, Karnataka. Incredible India (Ministry of Tourism) describes it as one of Badami’s oldest religious landmarks and a cluster of Chalukya-period temples dating to the 7th century. The group has two main temples, the Bhutanatha Temple and the larger Mallikarjuna Temple, plus several smaller shrines. The temple is dedicated to Shiva as the Lord of souls and spirits, and the complex takes its name from “Bhootha”, a demon said to have been vanquished here by Shiva.
Incredible India also notes that locals believe the water of the Agastya Lake has healing powers. The doorframes, lattice windows and floral carvings are the most distinct features of the group, and the shrines carry carvings of deities and dancing figures.
Inside the Bhutanatha shrine there is a Shiva Linga with a Nandi facing it.
Architecture
- The Bhutanatha Temple: According to Incredible India, the main section was built by the Badami Chalukyas in the 7th century, and the outer mandapa (hall) was added later by the Kalyani Chalukyas in the 11th century. The temple blends South Indian Dravidian and North Indian Nagara styles: the roof is in the North Indian style and the rest of the temple follows the Deccan style. Ganga is carved on one side of the doorframe of the inner shrine, riding a makara (crocodile), and Yamuna on the other, riding a tortoise. A lotus is carved on the ceiling. The inner part and open courtyard are older than the surrounding shrines.
- Mallikarjuna Temple: The larger of the two main temples, built by the Kalyani Chalukyas in the 11th century, according to Incredible India. It stands on the northeast side of the lake.
Timings to Visit
Opening time 6.00 AM, closing time 7.00 PM (as listed by Incredible India).
How to Reach Bhutanatha Group of Temples
By Air: Incredible India lists Kalaburagi Airport (GBI), Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), Bengaluru, and Hubballi Airport (HBX) as the nearest airports.
By Train: Badami Railway Station (BDM) is the nearest railway station.
By Bus: Badami Bus Station is the nearest bus station for the temples.
Address
Bhutanatha group of temples, Badami, Karnataka – 587201.
Karnataka Tourism Official Website For Bhutanatha Group of Temples
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