Journey Through Time: Exploring History

Bangalore, a city known for its modernity and tech-savvy culture, is also surrounded by regions rich in historical significance. For history enthusiasts, these outstation destinations provide a unique opportunity to explore the diverse heritage of South India. Book Bangalore outstation cab and start travelling.

1. Hampi: The Ancient City of Ruins

• Distance from Bangalore: 340 km
• Why Visit: Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, one of the largest and richest kingdoms in Indian history. Besides the city is now a sprawling ruin, with ancient temples, palaces, and monuments. Certainly tell the tale of its glorious past.
• What to Do: Explore the Virupaksha Temple, one of the oldest functioning temples in India, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Vittala Temple, famous for its musical pillars and the iconic stone chariot, is a must-visit for its architectural grandeur. Wander through the Royal Enclosure, which includes the Mahanavami Dibba, where kings once watched the Dasara celebrations. Moreover the Queen’s Bath, a stunning example of Indo-Islamic architecture. Don’t miss the Hemakuta Hill, which offers panoramic views of the ruins, especially during sunrise and sunset.

2. Mysore: The Cultural Capital of Karnataka

• Distance from Bangalore: 150 km
• Why Visit: Mysore, also known as Mysuru, is a city steeped in history and culture. It was the seat of the Wodeyar dynasty and is famous for its palaces, gardens, and vibrant cultural heritage.
• What to Do: Visit the Mysore Palace, one of the most magnificent royal residences in India, known for its intricate architecture and grand interiors. The Jaganmohan Palace, now an art gallery, houses a collection of paintings and artifacts from the Wodeyar era. Explore the Chamundi Hill, home to the Chamundeshwari Temple, which offers stunning views of the city below. The nearby Srirangapatna, the island fortress of Tipu Sultan, is another significant historical site. Additionally its well-preserved monuments and the Dariya Daulat Bagh, Tipu Sultan’s summer palace.

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3. Belur and Halebidu: The Cradle of Hoysala Architecture

• Distance from Bangalore: 220 km
• Why Visit: Belur and Halebidu are twin towns renowned for their exquisite Hoysala architecture. These ancient temples are masterpieces of intricate stonework. Especially depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and showcasing the artistic prowess of the Hoysala dynasty.
• What to Do: The Chennakesava Temple in Belur is a fine example of Hoysala architecture. Basically its detailed carvings and sculptures that adorn the walls, pillars, and ceilings. The Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is known for its elaborate friezes depicting stories from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Bhagavad Gita. Following the Kedareswara Temple is another architectural marvel that shouldn’t be missed. A visit to these temples offers a deep dive into the artistic and cultural history of the Hoysala period.

4. Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal: The Chalukyan Trilogy

• Distance from Bangalore: 450 km
• Why Visit: These three towns form a historic circuit that showcases the architectural and cultural achievements of the Chalukya dynasty. Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal are renowned for their rock-cut temples, cave sculptures, and early examples of temple architecture.
• What to Do: In Badami, explore the rock-cut cave temples, especially the Cave 1, dedicated to Lord Shiva, with its stunning sculptures of Nataraja. The Agastya Lake, surrounded by temples and cliffs, adds to the charm of the place. Aihole, known as the “Cradle of Indian Temple Architecture,” features over 100 temples, with the Durga Temple being the most famous for its apsidal shape and intricate carvings. Pattadakal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to a group of temples that blend Northern and Southern architectural styles, with the Virupaksha Temple being the most notable.

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5. Shravanabelagola: The Jain Heritage Site

• Distance from Bangalore: 140 km
• Why Visit: Shravanabelagola is a significant pilgrimage site for Jains, known for its colossal statue of Lord Bahubali, one of the largest monolithic statues in the world. The town is a testament to the ancient Jain culture and its contribution to Indian history.
• What to Do: Climb the 600 steps to the top of Vindhyagiri Hill to see the 57-foot-tall statue of Lord Bahubali, which has been standing for over a thousand years. The surrounding area is dotted with smaller Jain temples and basadis, which are worth exploring for their historical and religious significance. Indeed the nearby Chandragiri Hill also houses several ancient Jain temples, offering insights into the early history of Jainism in the region.

6. Chitradurga: The Fort of the Seven Hills

• Distance from Bangalore: 200 km
• Why Visit: Chitradurga Fort, also known as Kallina Kote or the Fort of Stones, is a massive fortress built on a series of hills. The fort has a rich history, having been ruled by various dynasties. Which including the Nayakas of Chitradurga, Hyder Ali, and Tipu Sultan.
• What to Do: Explore the fort’s seven concentric walls, secret passages, and ancient temples. The Hidimbeshwara Temple, located within the fort, is one of the oldest and most important temples in the area. The Onake Obavva Kindi, a small opening in the rocks, is named after the legendary warrior woman Obavva. He who defended the fort single-handedly against Hyder Ali’s forces. The fort’s strategic location offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a fascinating destination for history buffs.

Travel Through History

Exploring these historical destinations near Bangalore offers a unique journey through time. From the ruins of Hampi to the temples of Belur and Halebidu, each site tells a story of India’s rich cultural heritage. Traveling by outstation cab allows you to comfortably visit these sites, with the flexibility to explore at your own pace and delve deep into the history that each destination has to offer.