Kalaburagi, Karnataka
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After being a cultural and dharmic centre under the Rashtrakutas, Kalyana Chalukyas, Yadavas and the Kakatiyas, Kalaburagi came under the control of the Bahmani Sultans. The Sharana Basaveshwara temple in the heart of the city, built nearly 200 years ago, stands tall among all the religious structures that include only tombs and mosques. The district stands testimony to the glorious rule of the Kalyana Chalukyas, whose capital city, Kalyana, was not far off. The strong cultural heritage in the form of amazing ancient temples in the rural areas is a testimony to a vibrant society that existed. A traveller who loves history, monuments, and ancient temples must surely head for Kalaburagi. August to December is the best time to visit Kalaburagi. The city is approximately 570 kilometres away from Bengaluru and about 230 kilometres away from Hyderabad. The city has a well connected rail station and a domestic airport. The nearest international airport is in Hyderabad.
Nearby Places to See
Sharana Basaveshwara Temple
This temple was constructed over 200 years ago and is home to the Samadhi of a famous swami. The impressive structure we see today is the reconstructed temple, which was built with both white and black marble. A peaceful afternoon could be spent strolling the extensive precincts, which feature gardens and numerous trees.
Koranti Hanuman Temple
At the entrance, visitors are greeted by a large, beautiful statue of Hanuman. The temple was constructed within the city about 150 years ago. Hanuman is known as “Guarantee Hanuman” by city dwellers because he is believed to grant every wish made to the god.
Kalagi
Approximately 40 kilometres away is the town of Kalagi. Several ancient temples can be found in the village of Kalagi. With the exception of one, all of these temples are in various states of disrepair. Many visitors to the city are drawn to the city by the allure of its temples, drawn in by the intricate sculptures and beautiful architecture, but these temples have been neglected by the authorities and ignored by the general public for far too long.
The fort’s ramparts and bastions are still standing, and a cannon is stationed in one of them. An impressive structure, the Jama mosque dates back to 1367 and is located inside the fort. Alongside the fort’s outer walls can be found an ancient Someshwara temple. Some of the pillars in this temple are beautifully designed, but the structure as a whole has fallen into disrepair.
Buddha Vihar
Buddha Vihar is a sizable area frequented primarily by locals on the weekends. It was the Dalai Lama who opened the farms and the Buddha Vihar, a charming little building. The expansive land has been improved into a pleasant picnic area.
Located in the old areas of the city, here the visitors can see 3-4 equal sized large buildings that are the tombs of the Bahmani kings who ruled from Kalaburagi before the capital was shifted to Bidar. The Chor Gumbaz is another fortified structure perched high above the ground. It’s an odd structure that doesn’t look like a tomb and has no real purpose. It stands on its own and is stunning, so a visit is still recommended.
Things to Buy
Things to buy include Clothing, Souvenirs, Sandalwood art.
Foods to Relish
North Karnataka Spicy Thali, Cut Mirchi.
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Destination