Mahakuteshwara, Durga temple, Banashankari

The first two are self-contained temple complexes: the various shrines all in the same compound. The third is a favored pilgrimage spot in the area, where Parvati is venerated as banashankari.

Mahakuteshwara temple complex

Nandi in front of the Mahakuteshwara shrine

The unique aspect of this temple compound is that not only is it significant from a historic, art/architecture viewpoint—but also comprising a very much active, popular group of shrines in the center of which stands the papavinasha tank, fed by a natural eternal spring.

Some fine sculptures here, distinguished by an artistic sensibility not necessarily found elsewhere in the area—including a fetching ardhanarishwara and perhaps my favorite bhoovaraha among the various ones I’ve seen in South India.

Ardhanareeshwara on the outer walls of the *Sangameshwara*

*Bhoovaraha*: note the naturalism here, in the relaxed Bhudevi demurely balanced on Varaha’s elbow

The temples in this compound include both Dravida and Nagara styles.

Dravida-style tower, with progressively diminishing square storeys

Nagara-style curvilinear shikhara tower of the *Virupaksheshwara*: topped by an *amalaka* finial

*Chaturmukha* linga in a now barred mandapa within the *Papavinasha* tank

*Mahishasura mardini* (I liked that the arm in front seems balanced superhero-style)

Tree pose (*Vrikshasana*) penance for Shiva-Parvati

“Durga” temple complex (Aihole)

“Durga” temple with the unique apsidal (*gajaprishtha*—elephant-back) plan

Actually a misnomer, as the original consecration might have been to Surya. Certainly on the tourist-path that takes in the Badami caves and Pattadakal, this compound benefits from greater visible ASI protection and promotion (including a ticket office).

Some fine examples on the outer walls feature sculptures not necessarily resorting to type: fresh or unique in theme, posture or both.

Couple with child: I liked how the mother holds the baby’s foot

Durga temple gateway (with the original dedication to Surya visible up above)

In the mandapa towards inner sanctuary: note the ornate gateway, the ceilings

Close-up of gateway, with intricate carvings

The museum here, as usual, doesn’t allow photography: except for the outdoor gallery.

Other temples of note here include the Chakragudi unique for the mithuna carvings on the door jambs of the inner sanctuary, and the Lad Khan featuring the local Malprabha-style. The latter might be older than initially believed, from circa 5th century, based on the wood-style architecture among other details (which would make it one of the oldest surviving structural Hindu temples in all of India).

Vishnu on upper level, south side of the *Lad Khan*

Banashankari

Arguably the most popular pilgrimage destination in the Badami area: featuring an ancient shrine with later Maratha renovations and additions.