The rugged sandstone hills of Badami in Karnataka’s Bagalkot district lies the revered Banashankari Temple, a sacred sanctuary dedicated to Goddess Banashankari, a fierce yet compassionate form of Goddess Parvati. This ancient temple is not only a center of deep spiritual faith but also a remarkable symbol of Chalukyan architecture and Karnataka's cultural heritage. Whether you're a pilgrim seeking blessings or a traveler exploring South India's rich temple trails, Banashankari Temple offers a truly divine and enriching experience.
Temple About
Banashankari Temple, also known as Banashankari Amma Temple, is a famous Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Banashankari, a form of Parvati. The temple is revered by devotees seeking protection from hardships and is one of the most prominent Shakti temples in Karnataka.
Temple Description
The temple, believed to be built in 7th century CE by the Chalukya rulers, features Dravidian architecture with a distinct black stone idol of the goddess seated on a lion, trampling a demon. The sanctum is surrounded by a large water tank known as Haridra Tirtha, which adds to the spiritual ambience. The temple complex includes a deepastambha (lamp tower) and a unique Rahukala Puja performed here, which is considered highly auspicious.
Temple Specialty
Rahukala Seva: A special ritual not commonly performed in most temples.
Banada Hunnime Jatra: A grand annual festival attracting thousands of devotees.
The goddess is believed to protect devotees from evil forces and misfortunes.
The temple has been active for centuries and holds deep historical and cultural significance.
Temple Address
Banashankari Temple, Cholachagudda, Badami Taluk, Bagalkot District, Karnataka – 587201, India
Temple Location (Latitude and Longitude)
15.8939° N, 75.6826° E
Temple Timings
Morning: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Evening: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Timings may vary during festivals or special occasions)
Temple Sevas
Rahukala Puja
Deepa Aradhana
Special Alankaras
Archana, Abhisheka
Utsava Seva during Banada Hunnime
Traveling Facilities
Road: Well connected by buses from Badami and nearby towns.
Rail: Accessible via Badami railway station.
Air: Closest airport at Hubli.
Food Facilities
Small eateries and vegetarian hotels available in Badami town (5 km away).
Temple premises may offer prasadam on special days and during festivals.
Stay Facilities
Lodges and guest houses available in Badami.
Karnataka State Tourism Department runs hotels nearby.
Budget and mid-range hotels are also available.
Nearby Railway Station
Badami Railway Station (BDM) – approx. 5 km
Nearby Airport
Hubli Airport (HBX) – approx. 110 km
Belgaum Airport (IXG) – approx. 150 km
Nearby Bus Station
Badami Bus Stand – approx. 5 km
Bus Routes to Temple
Buses from Bagalkot, Hubli, Bijapur, Gadag, and Hospet.
KSRTC and private buses are available to Badami regularly.
Train Routes to Temple
Trains to Badami Railway Station from Hubli, Gadag, Solapur, Bengaluru.
From Badami station, take an auto/taxi to the temple.
Airways to Temple
Fly to Hubli Airport, then travel by taxi/bus to Badami.
Belgaum and Goa airports also have options for longer routes.
Nearby Cities to Temple
Bagalkot – 38 km
Hubli – 110 km
Bijapur (Vijayapura) – 120 km
Gadag – 85 km
Hospet – 105 km
Nearby Visiting Temples and Other Places
Badami Cave Temples – 5 km
Pattadakal Temple Complex (UNESCO site) – 22 km
Aihole Temples – 35 km
Mahakuta Group of Temples – 14 km
Mallikarjuna Temple, Badami
Preferable Visiting Season
October to March (Pleasant weather)
Banada Hunnime Festival (January–February) is the best time for a spiritual experience.
Shopping – Famous For
Stone sculptures, Channapatna toys, handicrafts, local jewelry, Banashankari idols, and traditional Karnataka sarees from local stalls during festival seasons.
The Banashankari Temple of Badami stands as a magnificent fusion of divinity, tradition, and historic legacy. It not only draws devotees who seek spiritual refuge but also history lovers and travelers eager to experience the grandeur of early Chalukyan architecture. Surrounded by other cultural jewels like Aihole and Pattadakal, a visit to this temple promises a spiritually uplifting and culturally enriching journey through the heart of North Karnataka.
