Belagavi is a historical and spiritual town in North Karnataka, located in the foothills of the Sahyadri range of mountains and, is a home of many natural wonders. Belagavi is undoubtedly a perfect destination for the family and friends to visit.
Belagavi is home to many historical sites and temples and is undoubtedly an ideal destination for family and friends.
A historical city, Belagavi has mesmerizing waterfalls, historical temples, forests, dams, and trekking hills.
HERE WE HAVE THE TOP 10 MOST VISIT MONUMENTS IN BELAGAVI
BELAGAVI FORT:
Belagavi Fort is one of the oldest monument in Karnataka, State built in the 12th century A.D. by the local Ratta Dynasty rulers, named Jaya Raya (also called Bichi Raja), which speaks of its grandeur and splendor. The fort is a perfect example of an ancient architectural pre-Muslim monument where temples and mosques co-existed in perfect harmony. The fort has been built with stones and mud and a wide moat runs round the fort. In the year 1631, the main gate of the Fort was built.
Of the Two Jain temples inside the Fort, the ‘Kamal Basadi’ a Basadi with the Neminatha Idol in black stone, which is found in a nearby forest, deified on a stone carved pedestal is more famous. Other idols seen in the temple are Bhagwan Sumatinath in the Kayotsarga Sumatinath in the Kayotsarga posture, Bhagwan Parshvanath, under the shade of the -hooded serpent (Nagaraj), Bhagwan Adinath in the Padmasana posture and the Navagraha.
In 1996, the temple was renovated by the Archeology Department.
The other temple, ‘Chikki Basadi’ is in ruins and was once considered a ‘remarkable piece of Jain architecture’. It has a frontage that displays festooned rows of dancing figures, musicians, and trimmed flowers. Both the temples were built in the Chalukyan Architecture Style inside the Fort.
There are 2 Hindu Temples, At the entrance, there are spectacular shrines of Goddess Durga and Lord Ganesha which will truly mesmerize you. The outer façade of the temple exhibits painted images of mythological figures.
The Fort has two Mosques (Masjids), namely Safa Masjid and Jamia Masjid. The former mosque is the most frequented by the Muslim population of Belagavi. Safa Masjid, built by Asad Khan Lari was completed in 1519 and the mosque’s pillar has exquisite inscriptions in a fusion of Nagari and Persian styles. The Jamia Masjid, dated 1585-1586, was built by Sher Khan.
RAJHANSGAD YELLUR FORT:
Yellur Fort (also known as Rajhansgad Yellur Fort), is one of the most impressive historical places to visit in Belagavi, Karnataka. It is an ancient fort ruled by several kings including the Marathas, Peshwas, Hoysalas, Bahamanis, etc. Yellur Fort has an elaborate entrance designed in the Gomukhi style and a rustic well enclosed within the wells. In the centre is the ancient Lord Shiva Temple which is visited by several visitors every day, especially on Mondays.
Perched high on a hill, one can enjoy trekking up on the Fort and admire the beautiful and spectacular views of the lush green surroundings. Moreover, there is a sweet water well located at the hilltop.
KAPILESHWAR TEMPLE:
Kapileshwar Temple is one of the famous temples of Belagavi. It is popularly known as “Kashi of South” According to inscriptions found at Kamal Basti, Kapileshwar Temple opened around 1000 AD, and people strongly believe that the Shiva Lingam is Self-Incarnated.
Devotees visit and seek blessings of Lord Shiva at this temple before visiting India’s 12 Jyotirlinga and the devotees are allowed to access the Shiva Lingam from close proximity.
PANCHALINGESHWAR TEMPLE:
Hooli Panchalingeshwar Temple is one of the top temples in Belagavi District and it stands in perfect condition. Ancient Village Hooli is located at 9 km distance from Saundatti and 78 km from Belgaum district. The Archaeological Survey of India protects this Chalukya architecture temple from the Jain Bastis Dynasty.
KALAMESHWAR TEMPLE:
It is listed amongst Belagavi’s famous temples and is dedicated to the Lord, another form of Lord Shiva. Although Kalameshwar Temple is located in Old Belgaum far from the city, it attracts several devotees. The temple is open from morning 7 am to 8 pm in the evening.
KITTUR FORT AND PALACE:
Kittur Fort and Palace is built by Rani Chennamma. Kittur Fort and Palace is one of the most interesting places near Belagavi. Apart from the temples of Maruti, Kalmeshwara, Dyamavva, and Nathapanthi Matha, this place also holds a marvelous archaeological museum inside the palace. This fort has a display of weapons, armor, knick-knacks, jewelry, costumes, historical sculptures, and inscriptions, which presents a visual treat for archeology enthusiasts.
Military Shri Mahadev Temple
Military Shri Mahadev Temple is one of the city’s oldest temples and this ancient Shiva shrine is managed by the Indian Army. The foundation stone of the Military Mahadev temple origin was laid on 18th January 1954, and inaugurated in 1955 on 24th January for the public, by Lieutenant General S.M. Shrinagesh Southern Command and General Officer and Commander-in-Chief. It is renowned for its well-landscaped garden, play area for children, and hosting of religious rituals and festivals like Maha Shivratri.
The temple boasts intricate carvings that are similar to the carvings found in Prominent temples across South India. It has long been used as a place of worship by Army personnel, which is why it is called the Military Mahadeva Temple.
The temple is clean and well-maintained. Devotees can also visit a mini zoo near the house’s deer and emus. People of our city love to spend their time with their loved ones, as the area of the Temple is big enough and is maintained by the Officials.
ST MARY’S CHURCH
St.Mary’s Church was built in 1869, in the Gothic Style. The building is believed to have been designed by Rev Francis Gell. The altar is built with teak and marble and is towered by an exceptionally beautiful stained-glass collage, which depicts the life of Jesus from birth to resurrection in 12 frames.
It is open for the visitors from 9 AM till 7 PM. However, Auto can be hired from any part of Belagavi city to reach the Church.
SOGAL SOMESHWARA TEMPLE:
Sogal Someshwara Temple is an architectural and cultural gem steeped in spirituality and legend. This temple is made long ago in the Chola Period and was made to dedicate Lord Shiva.
SAUNDATTI YELLAMMA TEMPLE:
Saundatti Yellamma Temple also commonly known as Renuka Devi Temple and was built in 1514 by Bomappa Nayaka of Raybag. The deity in the temple is the goddess Yellamma or Ellama , revered as a fertility goddess.
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