Shri Durga Temple Complex

Beautiful place, filled with architectural Marvels. I heard someone telling The Parliament building is inspired by one of the temples here. There are tiny temples and museum within this temple main area. Well connected by roads from Badami.

For those looking for a significant cultural and spiritual experience, the complex is a must-visit because each of the temples within tells a different story and is rich in history. A serene and important historical location that inspires admiration for India's architectural heritage

Steeped in history, each temple within the complex tells a unique story, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a profound cultural and spiritual experience. A tranquil and historically significant site that leaves visitors in awe of India's architectural legacy.

Well maintained and clean, it's a 7th century temple constructed during the chalukya rule, there is small entry fee to visit the temple and also there is a museum inside the temple complex.

Wel maintained washroom and spacious parking facilities is available.

Aihole is a very small village in Bagalkot district of Karnataka state. It was considered as the cultural centre of Western Chalukyans who ruled the region from 6th to 8th century.

The name Aihole believed to come from “Ayyavole Arya-volal” (the valley of elders). The village is located on the banks of Malaprabha river.  Today, Aihole has more than hundred ruins of temples and two rock-cut temples scattered around the village.  The Archeological Survey of India (ASI) is having a challenge in securing these precious arts and  cultural heritage of Chalukyas which were later defaced and decimated by the dogmatic invaders.

Unfortunately, the destruction of these cultural sites are not explained in detail in our “secular school curriculum” or in any Museums including the ASI Museum in Aihole.

Today, ASI maintains a few ruins in their complex and provide access to tourists and visitors. The most recognizable temple within the complex is the Durga Temple. The temples shape as well as the sculptures around the inner and outer courtyard are simply outstanding examples of Chalukyas sophistication of arts, architecture and sculptures.

Other temples in the complex are:

-         Suryanarayan temple

-         Ladkhan Temple (high time to change the name of this temple)

-         Gaudaragudi Temple

-         Nadyar temple

-         Chakra temple

-         Trikudeshwara temple

-         …

There is also a step well and an ASI Museum within the Complex.

The Sri Durga Temple in Aihole, Karnataka, India, is a remarkable and unique example of ancient Indian architecture and is one of the most prominent and visited monuments in this historic town. Aihole, often referred to as the "Cradle of Indian Temple Architecture," boasts over 100 temples, with the Durga Temple being a standout for its distinct design and historical significance.

Dated to the late 7th or early 8th century, the Durga Temple was built during the reign of the Chalukyas, a dynasty known for its significant contribution to Indian architecture. Contrary to what its name might suggest, the temple is not dedicated to Goddess Durga. The name 'Durga' refers to the temple's location within a fortification or 'durg' in Sanskrit.

Heralded as the ‘cradle of Hindu/ Dravidian temple architecture’, Aihole is a tranquil village on the banks of Malaprabha River. Hundreds of temples pepper the villages and fields nearby. The most noteworthy among them is the Durga Temple composed of a semicircular apse, an elevated plinth and a gallery encircling the sanctum.
Durga temple is the primary attraction in Aihole and most spectacular representations of Aiholë temples. Durga temple complex houses an archaeological museum and art gallery.

Visited the temple while traveling from Hampi to Badami. The temple itself is beautiful. There's a nominal entry fee. Other complexes like Badami or Pattadakallu are considerably bigger than this. Surrounding area is not kept clean by the people though, and that was the only negative point. Overall a good place to visit.

One of the best and popular temple complex out of eight in Aihole. The unique oval shaped durga Temple, actually a Sun temple is beautiful and fascinating. Don't forget to take guide to know better about the temple. Focus on two parikramas and secrets of windows in each one.

ASI has kept the whole premises neat clean and beautiful.

A must visit place.

A Durgadevi temple of Aihole on the UNESCO heritage city along with the Pattadakallu.. There are so many temples which are constructed during the times of Chalukya..

A very beautiful temple and a museum which is well maintained a must see place in Karnataka.. I always feel bad for the people where they are living there where there is no development at all, still our politicians are busy in south Karnataka only.. What a beautiful city it feels that you are going back to the very olden era..

2 Entry tickets are there for the temples and museum.

Built originally as a Sun temple as Vikramaditya temple, today this is known as Durga temple as the top structure was built as look out (Durg) structure. Construction was carried on during the Chalukya dynasty rule. All the temple structures in and around Aiholle are beautifully carved in stone as a testament of the sculptures skills and patience. Do spend your time here and enjoy all the beauties in stones and the stories they tell you from about 1500 years ago.

•Area is really well maintained.
Nice place to spend evening time with friends and family.

•Entry fee is ₹25 offline and ₹20 online(but in online u need to fill ur personal details nd verify ur identity).
•There is also a museum located near the temple which was closed when I visited.

•NOTE:
"ASI should maintain the sculptures.As I posted a video here, It shows how some sculptures are not taken care of "

Beautiful temples more than 10 at at one place Durga temple is beauty of ihole, there is a fort temple just 2km from the temple (But no god idol in the temple hope you all know the history)
Bus facility is very pathetic need to wait long time

Aihole, a historic site from ancient times, is a treasure trove of religious monuments and Hindu art. It stands as a must-see attraction in Karnataka, renowned for its exquisite temple architecture. Visiting Aihole is like stepping back in time to the Chalukya dynasty era, with a plethora of nearby temples to explore. Often referred to as the 'Cradle of Indian Architecture,' Aihole is a remarkable destination for history and art enthusiasts.

This spectacular temple is a "must see" in Aihole. The circumambulatory passage is decorated with some very fine architectural niches.

Beautiful place! 1500 years old, Aihole is considered the birthplace of Indian temple architecture.

A great place in Aihole. Under ASI. Very neat and clean place. Well maintained

The name is a little misleading...its not dedicated to goddess durga , but something to do with durg( fort). The chalukya architecture continues and its finer here...the complex has around 7 monuments....the intricate art inside each of them is mind blowing...a must visit in the triad list...

I visited Aihole the World Heritagesite, Shri Durga temple, in the last week of March 2023.
* Located in Karnataka, India. Temples and sculptures carved in big stones, monolithic rocks of sandstone, and Granites.
* Location: Can reach this place - Hungung Bus station to Aihole or From Ilkal to Aihole or Badami to Aihole using KSRTC bus( Karnataka State Transport Buses) . It takes 1 hour from Badami to Aihole.
* Specialty of Site: Rock Carvings, Ancient heritage site, Sandstone rock art, museum.

The Durga temple doesn't have any Idol of Durga Devi( Goddess) ... but it is misinterpreted as Devi temple, whereas it is a Durg temple ( Fort temple).
* Wonderful carvings of Lord Ganesha in different forms can be seen, Temple ceiling, pillars, and steps walls have different carvings of Lord Vishnu in Varah avatar, Narshima avatar and more...
Mesume is located on the premises and have lot of ancient artifacts...

One can plan to Visit : Aihole - PattadaKala - Badami - Hampi ( All ancient world heritage sites) in 2 to 3 days

This is one of the places located near Badami which has some interesting history attached to it. It is said Durga slayed several demons here which had the waters in the river running red. Good place to click pictures. I suggest getting a guide.