Banavasi is the first capital of Karnataka I Madhukeshwara Temple I Kadamba Dynasty I Uttara Kannada. Banavasi is the oldest town in Karnataka with a history that dates back to 4th century AD. This ancient temple town is located about 23 kms from Sirsi City. Banavasi was the capital of Kannada empire Kadamba that ruled all of modern-day Karnataka state. They were the first native empire to bring Kannada and Karnataka to prominence.The Madhukeshwara Temple is probably the most iconic symbol of Banavasi.
A pair of stone elephants stands at the gates to welcome visitors to this temple.
The temple dates back to the 9th century and hence is one of Karnataka’s oldest temples. It was commissioned by Mayura Sharma from the Kadamba dynasty.
The main shrine of this temple has a very simple structure. It has minimal ornamentation in terms of carvings on pillars and walls. This temple gets its name from the honey-hued Shiva Lingam inside the sanctum.
After the Kadamba reign, under the reign of the Chalukya dynasty, a Sankalpa mandapa was added on to the temple.
The construction of the Nritya mandapa is attributed to the Hoysala rulers.
The ceiling, walls and pillars of Nritya Mandapa is exquisitely carved and bear the Hoysala trademark.
Inside the Nritya Mandapa is a 7-foot tall monolithic statue of the Nandi Bull.
This is positioned in such a way that the left eye seems to be looking at Lord Shiva and the right eye is directed towards Parvati.
What is interesting to note is that the line of sight has been created in such a way that the pillars do not intersect it.
One of the highlights of this temple is an intricately carved triloka mantapa. This was made by the Sonde rulers.
The triloka mantapa depicts Shiva and Parvathi in the centre surrounded by the Kailasa Sikara, Sesha lok and Bathala lok.
First evidence of Kannada script was found in the inscriptions and coins found here
The annual December cultural festival, Kadambothsava, is a huge gathering, organised by the state government, and featuring folk dancers, drama troupes, classical musicians, art exhibitions while drawing together performers, artists, and writers from throughout India.
In addition to all the historic beauty of this place, don’t miss to enjoy good quality juicy pineapples which they grow around this place.
QUICK FACTS:
How to Reach Banavasi
By Air
The nearest airport is Mangalore at a distance of 253 km from Banavasi. Flights from all parts of India land here. You may choose to take a bus or hire a taxi to Banavasi from here.
By Rail
Shimoga is the nearest railway station at a distance of 112km from the city. Buses ply regularly or one may hire a taxi.
By Road
Banavasi is well connected to the surrounding cities and towns by road. KSRTC runs several buses between Bangalore and Banavasi. Several private buses also ply to Banavasi from neighboring towns and cities.
When to go
The dry season from October to February is a great time to visit if you wish to enjoy the temples. However, if you also want to take in the lush greenery of the surrounding fields and paddy fields in full bloom, monsoon months from mid-June to August are perfect.
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Google Map Location:
Banavasi: goo.gl/maps/1GLSJc4ApeKqmFWm7
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