Pattadakal - Karnataka

Discover the Pattadakal UNESCO World Heritage Site

Described by UNESCO as “a harmonious blend of architectural forms from northern and southern India” and an illustration of “eclectic art” at its height, Pattadakal is not to be missed if you love stepping back in time.

This World Heritage Site is home to nine Hindu temples and a Jain sanctuary, all built from the striking surrounding sandstone. It is thought to have been an important trial ground for the development of South Indian temple architecture.

Built in the 7th and 8th centuries, Pattadakal is a place where design skills and styles from both the north and south of India fuse together.

Things to do in Pattadakal

There are plenty of temples to take your pick from, but the largest and most sophisticated is Virupaksha. Dating back to around 740 and built in a Dravidian architectural style, the ruins are a storybook of history, with friezes depicting wrestling, yoga and a trapped elephant, and inscriptions detailing the society and culture of 8th-century India.

The best way to see Pattadakal

If you would like to visit Pattadakal why not take a look at one of our wonderful ATOL and ABTA protected holidays?  Please remember all our private tours are designed to meet your exact requirements, and the tours mentioned are just examples to help inspire you. Contact our travel experts on 01792 315499 or email info@aitholidays.com for more information.