A World Heritage Center, Pattadakkal is 29 km from
Badami. It is situated along the left bank of the river Malaprabha. The golden period of Pattadakkal was under the
Chalukya dynasty, in the 7th and 8th centuries. It was the third Chalukyan capital and served as the royal coronation site. During this period, the temple architecture was at its peak. Pattadakkal has 10 major temples symbolizing Chalukyan architecture.
The prime attractions in the city are the Virupaksha temple and Banashankari temple. The Virupaksha temple is enclosed in a large quadrangle surrounded by small cells. It has a massive gateway and several inscriptions. The temples of Jambulinga, Mallikarjuna and Papanath are the other attractions in the city. There is also a Jain temple at Pattadakkal. A gallery maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India within the Pattadakkal temple complex.
‘The Pattadakkal Dance Festival’, is the hallmark of the town. It is organized annually by the Karnataka Government.
The nearest airport is at Belgaum, 180 km away. The nearest railhead is at Badami. Pattadakkal is well connected by road to Badami, Belgaum, Bijapur and Aihole. Best time to visit is from October to March.
