Baadami North Fort (Badami)

 archaeological site, fort

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Badami North Fort is the main fort which is towards the northern side of the Agasthya Lake. The Fort has a temple and a mosque too.
Located in the Bagalkot district of North Karnataka, Badami is known for its beauty and rich history. Ruled by Chalukya’s in ancient times, Badami is a must visit tourist site in state of Karnataka. In Badami, Badami Fort is the most well-known archaeological site soaked in the history of the Chalukyas and the Pallavas. The Badami Fort with its entrance guarded by Nandi (Shiva’s bull), is immersed in archaeological splendor and culture that takes you back to pre-historic times. This beautiful fort is spread across two hills and further divided into North Fort and South Fort.

It is believed that once upon a time, North Fort housed Tipu Sultan’s treasury. The steps which lead to the forts are steep and strenuous and hence one has to be careful while climbing them. In 5th century, King Pulakeshi II had built two ‘Shivalayas’ with Upper Shivalaya devoted to Lord Vishnu and Lower Shivalaya devoted to Ganesha. The entire wall of Shivalaya is depicted with mythological tales and showcase beautiful sculptures of elephants and horses. A watchtower stands tall near the Lower Shivalaya and it is believed to be built in the 14th century. The fort also houses granaries and treasure sites, which are worth seeing as they remind us of the glorious days of our Indian history.

The Badami Fort is a deserted area and part of the front gate of the fort has been blocked for the tourists owing to few accidents and mishaps in the past. The history of Badami records falling of the city in the backdrop of war between the Chalukyas and Pallavas. Narasimhavarman in his rage destroyed every inch of Badami and what remains today is a little window which opens towards history and unfolds the fascinating story of beautiful Badami in its glory.