Mahakuta is an ancient temple complex situated in the Bagalkot district of North Karnataka. It is located just 6 kilometers from Badami. Mahakuta temple complex is dedicated to Shiva. It has multiple temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The most fascinating feature of Mahakuta Temple Complex is its serenity. The temple complex is located in a forest-like area, nestled among the cool shade of Kadamba trees. The Mahakuta temple complex is almost 1500 years old. Mahakuta temples were build by the Chalukyas in 5th to 7th century CE.
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| The Serene Mahakuta Temple Complex, Bagalkot |
A Photo Essay of Mahakuta Temple Complex, Northern Karnataka
In this photo essay, we will look at some stunning images of the group of Shiva temples at Mahakuta.
The first image that welcomes a visitor in Mahakuta is this enormous Peepal tree. As we walk towards it, the a cold breeze caresses us. Under the Peepal tree of Mahakuta, there is a beautiful temple pond.
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| Entrance of the Mahakuta Temple Complex - Peepal Tree |
As we walk towards the Peepal tree, a beautiful pond welcomes us. It is called the Kashi Theertha. There is a Ganesha idol that overviews this tiny pond. It's a picturesque sight. It's only a foreshadow of something amazing inside the Mahakuta Temple complex.
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| Kashi Theertha of Mahakuta Temple Complex |
Once we enter the Mahakuta temple complex, this beautiful sight welcomes us- the refreshing temple pond of Mahakuta is breathtaking with its green waters. Mahakuta temple is nestled in a serene compound and this natural pond adds to its beauty.
In this pond there is an architectural marvel.
This is 'Chaturmugha-Linga' or the Shiva Linga with four faces. This rare Chaturmugha-Linga is situated on a raised platform inside the temple pond of Mahakuta. It's a rare Shiva idol, that's not easily found in South Indian temples.
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| The four faced Shiva Linga of Mahakuta temple complex |
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The main temple inside the Mahakuta temple complex is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple has a typical
Dravidian Temple architecture. A special feature of the Mahakuta complex is, it has temples of both
Nagara and Dravidian temple architectures. There is a majestic animal in front of this the main Shiva temple.
This is the idol of Nandi- the vehicle of Lord Shiva. The 1500 year old
monolithic Nandi sculpture of Mahakuta is unparalleled in its craft and beauty. Centuries of wind has smoothed the monolithic sculpture of Nandi.
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| The Monolithic Nandi Sculpture of Mahakuta Temple Complex |
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1500 year old Monolithic Nandi Sculpture of Mahakuta Temple Complex
Mahakuta is one of the major Shiva temples in Karnataka. The 1500 year old temple is still active. From across Karnataka devotees and art and architectural enthusiasts flock to Mahakuta. |
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The Shiva Linga (Idol) in Mahakuta Temple
Mahakuta temple complex has atleast 5-7 ancient temples. Look at the top portion of this temple. It is built in a typical Nagara Style. Often in South India, the Dravidian temple architecture is prominent. The mix of Nagara and Dravidian architecture styles of Mahakuta is an exception. It's a rare treat for both Hindu devotees and art and architecture enthusiasts.
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| The Nagara style temple in the Mahakuta temple complex |
Mahakuta temple complex houses many beautiful sculptures, for example, the below
Artha-Narishwara sculpture. Sadly, many of these sculptures are in ruin due to the lack of maintanance. Look at the Narasimha sculpture on the above photo
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| Ardhanarishwara Sculpture of Mahakuta |
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| The ruined sculptures of Mahakuta Temple Complex |
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Mahakuta temple is where nature meets history. The temple complex is located inside the thick canopy of trees. There are many auspicious trees like Kadamba tree inside the Mahakuta temple complex
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| Kadamba Tree inside Mahakuta Temple Complex |
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