Pattadakal is a town in the Indian state of
Karnataka. Pattadakal is a perfect example of architectural genius as it contains temples constructed according to various styles. But the primary influence of the Chalukiyan art clearly reflects from the various temples it houses. Four temples in
Pattadakal have been engineered by keeping the style of architecture followed by the Dravidians in mind. Others except Papanatha temple are illustrations of the style followed by the Nagaras who descended from the northern parts of India.
Significant temples at
Pattadakal of Karnataka are mentioned below:-
Virupaksha Temple: Being built by Lokeshwari who was the spouse of Vikramaditya II, this temple came into existence to commemorate the huge win of the king against the Pallavas in 735. Although it resembles the Kailashnatha temple of Kanchi this temple is a marvelous piece of art that inspired the Rashtakootas to build the Ellora Kailashnatha Temple.
The Virupaksha Temple is placed in the eastern facet of the Malaprabha river. The 18 pillars that augments the beauty of the mukhamandapam contain vivid portrayals of the scenes from Puranas.
Other sculptures include Ravananugrahamurthy, Narasimha, Gajendramoksham and also Shiva performing a type of tandava or dance. Another idol include an embodiment of Lakulisa.
Mallikarjuna Temple:- It bears uncanny resemblance with the Virupaksha temple but is a little bit on the smaller side.
The Papanatha Temple is dowered with a Vimanam that has been constructed according to the Nagara style of engineering. It also possesses scenic portrayal of famous moments from the Hindu epic, Ramayana.
Other temples include the Galaganatha Temple, Kasi Visveswara, Chandrasekhara, Sangameswara, Jambulinga, Kadasiddeswara and a Jain Temple.
Pattadakal is a sought after tourist destination of Karnataka.
