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Calukyas of Vatapi

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Step into the world of the Early Calukyas, where every stone holds a story, and every carving whispers secrets of a bygone era. This thoughtfully curated journey through the historic landscapes of Aihole, Badami, and Pattadakallu is a masterful blend of inquiry-based, immersive, and interactive experiences, offering a rare opportunity to engage deeply with India’s architectural and cultural heritage.

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, it was designed by Nandini Cholaraju, who has 14 years of experience in crafting meaningful experiences through travel and by renowned archaeologist Gopal Joge, whose expertise adds immense value to the program. Designed to encourage dialogue and reflection, this program builds on what participants already know, explores what they seek to learn, and imparts the rich insights of the tour director—gained through decades of scholarly research and fieldwork.

The experience unfolds at a deliberate, well-paced rhythm, giving participants the time and space to absorb, reflect, and connect with the stories etched into the temples and caves. Through compelling narratives and storytelling, Gopal Joge reveals layers of history, culture, and symbolism, making every visit to sites like the Durga Temple Complex, the Badami Caves, and the sculptural masterpieces of Pattadakallu an enlightening exploration. The experience is as much about the senses as the mind.

Each thoughtfully prepared meal reflects the region’s rich history, culture, and traditions, adding another layer of immersion to the journey. This program is more than a tour; it’s a dialogue with history, an exchange of ideas, and a journey of discovery. It offers a depth and authenticity that transforms how you engage with the past, leaving you with lasting impressions and newfound perspectives.

DAY 1

Aihole – The Cradle of Indian Temple Architecture

Your journey begins at Aihole, often regarded as the “Cradle of Indian Temple Architecture,” where you’ll witness the transition from rock-cut to structural temples. This historic site showcases over 100 temples, each narrating the evolution of Calukyan art.

Highlights:

 

  • Ravanaphadi Cave Temple: Admire the early rock-cut shrine with its finely detailed carvings of Shiva, Parvati, and celestial figures

  • Hucchimalli Gudi: Explore one of the oldest structural temples in Aihole, known for its simple yet elegant design.

  • Durga Temple Complex: Marvel at the apsidal design resembling a Buddhist chaitya, adorned with intricate sculptures of deities and mythical beings.

  • Meguti Hill: Visit the Jain Meguti Temple and the nearby Buddhist cave shrine, which illustrate Aihole’s religious diversity.

  • Huchappayya Math and Galaganath Temple Complex: A cluster of temples showcasing exquisite carvings and architectural innovation


Narratives and Engagements
 

  • Introduction to the Calukyan Era: Understand the geographical and political landscape that shaped Aihole’s transformation into a hub of temple architecture.

  • Interactive Walkthrough: Discuss the religious dynamics reflected in the evolution from cave shrines to structural temples.

  • Decoding Temple Grammar: Learn the foundational elements of Indian temple architecture, from its layout to symbolic representations.

DAY 2

Badami – The Capital of the Early Calukyas

 

Step into the majestic city of Vatapi (Badami), the erstwhile capital of the Early Calukyas, known for its monumental cave temples and lakeside architectural splendour.

Highlights:

  • Badami Caves: Explore four stunning rock-cut caves featuring sculptures of Shiva, Vishnu, and Jain Tirthankaras. The murals and inscriptions here narrate stories of mythology and politics.

  • Bhutanath Temple Complex: A serene complex set against the Agastya Lake, showcasing a blend of rock-cut and structural designs.

  • Trek to Upper Shivalaya: Discover inscriptions like the famed Kappe Arabhatta and learn about the Calukyan kings’ legacy.

  • Lower Shivalaya and Malegatti Shivalaya: Visit these beautifully preserved temples with unique architectural elements.

  • Shakambari and Nagnath Kolla: Sacred shrines highlighting the spiritual life of the Deccan.​

 

Narratives and Engagements

  • Myths and Legends of Vatapi: Dive into the stories of Vatapi’s rise, including the Calukya-Pallava contestations and the imperial aspirations of the Calukyan rulers.

  • Cave Architecture and Sculptural Grandeur: Discuss the evolution of rock-cut temples, their symbolic meaning, and the intricate artistry of Badami’s caves.

  • Monumental Heritage: Explore the story of Badami’s temples spanning over 1,500 years of art and architecture.

  • Deccan Cult Deities: Discover how local and pan-Indian deities were represented in the Calukyan domain

DAY 3

Pattadakallu – Pinnacle of Calukyan Art and Architecture

Pattadakallu, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a remarkable testament to the artistic and architectural brilliance of the Early Chalukyan era, harmoniously uniting the intricate.     Nagara style of the north with the grand Dravidian style of the south.

Highlights:

 

  • Virupaksha Temple: Built to commemorate a Calukyan victory, this temple boasts intricate carvings of gods, goddesses, and celestial dancers.

 

  • Sangameshvar Temple: A Dravidian masterpiece showcasing early experimentation with scale and design.

 

  • Kashi Vishweshvar and Mallikarjun Temples: Smaller yet equally captivating temples with exceptional craftsmanship.

 

  • Papanath Temple: Famous for its blend of Nagara and Dravidian styles, featuring exquisite panels from the Mahabharata and Ramayana.

 

Narratives and Engagements

 

  • The Sacred City of Pattadakallu: Learn about the myths and legends that transformed this village into a thriving spiritual and architectural hub.

 

  • Decoding Narratives in Stone: Explore the stories of the Mahabharata, Ramayana, Pancatantra, and Puranas carved into temple panels.

 

  • Mature Temple Art: Discuss how Pattadakallu’s temples reflect the culmination of Calukyan architectural experiments.

DAY 4

Hidden Gems and Sacred Landscapes

The journey concludes with visits to lesser-known yet spiritually significant sites that provide insights into the everyday life and beliefs of the Early Calukyas

Highlights:

 

  • Mahakuta Temple Complex: A tranquil site with sacred water tanks and shrines dedicated to Shiva.

 

  • Siddhankolla: Explore rock-cut shrines set against a natural backdrop, offering a serene connection to the past.

 

  • Quarry Visit: Witness the source of sandstone used for Calukyan temples and learn about ancient construction techniques.

 

  • Hale Mahakuta and Huligyemmankolla: Smaller yet significant shrines that highlight the spiritual diversity of the region.

 

Narratives and Engagements

 

  • Mahakuta Temple Complex: A tranquil site with sacred water tanks and shrines dedicated to Shiva.

 

  • Siddhankolla: Explore rock-cut shrines set against a natural backdrop, offering a serene connection to the past.

 

  • Quarry Visit: Witness the source of sandstone used for Calukyan temples and learn about ancient construction techniques.

 

  • Hale Mahakuta and Huligyemmankolla: Smaller yet significant shrines that highlight the spiritual diversity of the region.

Tour Directors

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Gopal Joge, an esteemed Assistant Professor in Indian Art with over 16 years of experience in teaching and research. Based at the Department of Ancient Indian History, Culture & Archaeology (AIHC & Archaeology) at Deccan College Post Graduate and Research Institute, his expertise lies in Indian Iconography and the architectural marvels of early medieval South Asia.

 

Professor Joge’s in-depth knowledge, coupled with his engaging approach, has inspired countless students and history enthusiasts. His extensive work and contributions in the field of Indian Art and Archaeology make him an authority on unraveling the stories behind ancient sculptures, monuments, and cultural heritage.

 

We are thrilled to have him lead our upcoming tour to Badami, Pattadakal, and Aihole. With his unparalleled expertise, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the cradle of Chalukyan art and architecture.

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Nandini Cholaraju is the founder of Ollit Expeditions, a passionate traveller turned travel entrepreneur with over 14 years of experience in curating unique and immersive odysseys. She creates region-specific experiences connecting travellers to the soul of a destination through its people, history, art, architecture, heritage, and culinary traditions. Nandini has designed experiential tours engaging with over 7000 students, fostering meaningful connections between learning and exploration.

 

Nandini's dedication to curating authentically transformative travel experiences makes Ollit Expeditions, a trusted partner for adventurers, history enthusiasts, and cultural explorers alike.

 

Her profound understanding of India’s diverse heritage inspires travellers to see the world through a lens of curiosity

Namratha Satheesh is an alumna of Deccan College Postgraduate and Research Institute, where she earned her master’s degree with distinction, graduating as the topper in her subject. As a research scholar, she is passionate about uncovering the historical threads that shape the present and sharing their significance in engaging ways.

Her work extends beyond academia into the digital space, where she creates Instagram videos to demystify archaeology, bridging ancient worlds with modern audiences. A storyteller at heart, Namratha brings cultural narratives to life through the intricate patterns of mandala art and the expressive movements of Bharatnatyam.

She is eager to bring this passion to the team and collaborate on uncovering stories that unite us all

Call us on 9008009955/7676946184 to book your slot
Let’s rediscover history, one stone at a time
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