Hampi and Badami are often visited together, as they lie just 150 kilometers apart, making them perfect companions for an immersive historical journey. When we visited Hampi three years ago, we didn't make it to Badami due to time constraints. Back then, I wasn’t entirely sure if Badami was worth the extra trip, and so we focused solely on Hampi.
Fast forward to a recent long weekend, where I had four days at my disposal and a growing desire to explore somewhere new. That’s when Badami came to mind. A quick search on Google and YouTube revealed an intriguing destination, filled with ancient rock-cut temples, serene lakes, and untold stories etched in stone. I was sold instantly.
The drive from Pune to Badami offers two main routes: one through Kolhapur and the other via Solapur. While the Kolhapur route is faster, I opted for the road through Solapur, which allowed for a quick detour to Bijapur (now Vijayapura). This historical city added another layer to the trip, with its rich architectural wonders like Gol Gumbaz and Ibrahim Rauza.
Road Trip Details:
Route: Pune > Vijayapura (Bijapur) > Badami
Road Condition: Excellent, smooth roads with minimal wait times at toll plazas (less than a 30 seconds on average across 10-12 tolls both ways).
Toll Cost: Approx. ₹1120 for a round trip.
Distance: 500kms one way
Time To Reach: With Breakfast, Lunch and Bio-breaks, we reached our destination in about 10 hours by car.
Things to Note: There are limited good dining options along the highway, so it's a good idea to pack some snacks or quick bites for the journey.
Stay in Badami:
We stayed at Clarks Inn, which is ideally located close to the main attractions like the Badami Caves, Badami Fort, Boothnath Temple, and Agastya Lake—making it easy to explore on foot. The rooms were spacious and clean, with a restaurant offering good food, although service was slow due to staff changes during our visit. Despite this, Clarks Inn remains one of the better accommodation options in the area.
First Impressions of Badami:
Badami, while historically significant, doesn't quite match Hampi's lively, heritage-rich vibe. The town feels more rural, with fewer tourists and limited dining or shopping options. Unlike Hampi, which teems with bustling markets and vibrant streets, Badami feels quieter, like a hidden village waiting to be rediscovered.
But make no mistake, Badami is absolutely worth a visit. Its charm lies in its rugged landscape and centuries-old temples. The Badami Caves, with their intricate carvings, the tranquil Agastya Lake, and the picturesque Boothnath Temple by the water’s edge offer a peaceful retreat into the past.
Tips for Travelers:
- Combine with Hampi: If you're planning a trip to Hampi, make time for Badami. You can cover the major attractions in a day and a half.
- Nearby Heritage Sites: Don’t miss the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Pattadakal and Aihole, both just a short drive away. These ancient temple complexes will leave you awe-inspired by their artistry and historical importance.
In this series, I’ll dive deeper into each of these places—Bijapur, Badami, Pattadakal, and Aihole—sharing not only travel tips but also beautiful photos capturing the essence of each location. Stay tuned for the upcoming posts and get ready to embark on your own journey through Karnataka's rich heritage!
PLEASE DO READ AND CHECKOUT THE PICTURES ON LAPTOP / TAB / PC TO GIVE FULL JUSTICE THEY DESERVE
While the next posts is around the corner, why not read about my travel experience in Hampi and Picture Perfect images here -> https://pictureperfectwanderings.blogspot.com/search/label/hampi
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