Chalukya Shiva Temple, Aihole, Karnataka

Chalukya Shiva Temple, Aihole, Karnataka

Chalukya Shiva Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on the banks of the Malaprabha river in the heart of Aihole, an historical town, in Bagalkot District in Karnataka, India. This temple is considered be one of the oldest temples in the Aihole. The temple is situated to the south of the Durga Temple. This temple is protected as monuments of national importance by the central Archaeological Survey of India.

History

This temple is considered be one of the oldest temples in India. The temple is believed to be built in 5^th century CE. It is believed that this temple was originally a hall where Pulakeshin I, the first sovereign ruler of the Chalukya dynasty of Vatapi, had performed the Ashvamedha Yagna (horse sacrifice). Later, this temple was used for religious functions. Then it became a Surya Narayana Temple and subsequently a Shiva Temple. During the reign of Adil Shahi dynasty, a general named Lad Khan used this temple as his residence during his military campaign in the region. Thus, the temple came to be called as Lad Khan temple.

The Temple

For brief details, please refer below link;

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2022/06/chalukya-shiva-temple-aihole-temple.html

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 300 meters from Aihole Bus Stand. Aihole is located at about 13 Kms from Pattadakal, 30 Kms from Badami Railway Station, 33 Kms from Bagalkot Junction Railway Station, 34 Kms from Badami, 38 Kms from Bagalkot, 88 Kms from Gadag, 136 Kms from Hubballi Airport, 164 Kms from Belgaum Airport, 277 Kms from Goa and 446 Kms from Bengaluru. Aihole is situated on Pattadakal to Amingad route.

Location