Lakkundi, Karnataka
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A village that once was a rich and grand city full of temples and wells has only a few of them left intact. These twenty-odd temples tell a story of grandeur and culture that flourished back in the 10th century during the rule of the Kalyana Chalukyas and the following centuries when other dynasties ruled. The Kashi Vishwanatha temple is a masterclass in art. So is the Naneshwara Temple. The large Basadi (Jain temple) of Attimabbe is an impressive structure as well. Every nook and cranny of the village has an ancient temple in some state of decay, welcoming visitors. The Chandramouleshwara temple leaves visitors spellbound with intricate art on the ceiling. A thousand years ago, Lakkundi was known as Lokkigundi, and a royal mint was located here, which indicates that it was a major commerce and economic centre. Ancient coins found in various parts of the state have the seal “Lokki,” indicating their minting place. Many of the stepped wells have just vanished. Four of them have survived the travails of time and give the visitors a picture as to how the vanished ones probably looked. The more than 75 inscriptions found here reveal a great past that is unparalleled. The Archaeological Survey of India is making big efforts to promote the place as a historical tourist destination. Lakkundi is about 12 kilometres from the district headquarters in Gadag. The nearest rail connectivity is at Gadag, with Hubballi, 60 kilometres away, being the nearest air connection.
Nearby Places to See
The well-maintained museum is close to the Jain temple and displays numerous damaged idols, temple components, inscriptions, and other artefacts discovered nearby in Lakkundi. Visitors are also given information about Lakkundi’s illustrious past.
It is a large stepwell that has been skillfully constructed with bridges, a mantapa, and numerous side shrines. The little shrines are now deserted. A mandapa has been constructed over the steps at the front of the well. The Manikeshwara temple, a simple trikuta (three sanctums) structure, can be found right next to this step well.
This village, about 14 kilometres outside of Lakkundi, is home to an impressively designed temple dedicated to Dodda Basappa. The tower of this temple is designed in the shape of a 24-pointed star. While the temple’s interior is rather plain, its exterior is what sets it apart as the only one of its kind in all of Karnataka.
The district headquarters, Gadag, is 12 kilometres from Lakkundi, and it is home to the beautiful Trikuteshwara and Saraswati temples. The temples, which share the same grounds, were built in the 10th or 11th century. At the Saraswati temple, there are two pillars that stand out due to their exquisite craftsmanship and elaborate designs.
Binkadakatti, which was established in 1972, is located on the outskirts of Gadag, about 17 kilometres from Lakkundi. This tiny zoo, which covers just 16 square kilometres of land, not only houses rescued and injured animals but also serves as a rehabilitation centre.
Things to Buy
Things to buy At Gadag include Garments.
Foods to Relish
Brinjal fritters, Girmit (Puffed rice mixed with chilli powder, carrot, onion and spices), Roti with curd and groundnut chutney, North Karnataka thali.
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