History has a tendency of surprising you when you least expect. That’s exactly what we experienced during our trip to Banavasi, which is a picturesque temple town tucked away in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. This was first capital of Karnataka, and now it is known for ancient ruins and old temples, where the time stands still.
As each stone has a tale to tell in this place, and as the nature, culture, and heritage come together to create a perfect harmony, let me explain what to explore when you are here.
Things to Do in Banavasi
Banavasi was the capital of the Kadamba dynasty, which was Karnataka’s first indigenous ruling state. Here’s what you should do when you get to this mystique place.
1. Pay a Visit to the Madhukeshwara Temple
The Madhukeshwara Temple in honor of Lord Shiva is one of the prominent landmarksof Banavasi. Constructed over 1,500 years ago, this temple is a breathtaking example of Kadamba architecture. As we walked barefoot on the ancient stone floors, the elaborately carved Nandi and the strange honey-colored Shiva Linga left us gasping. The sanctum’s quietness was broken only by the gentle chant of the priest.
2. A Walk through the Glorious Past
Besides the temple, Banavasi also boasts many ancient monuments and stone inscriptions. Local guides shared the tales of the prosperous town once inhabited by scholars, craftsmen, and poets. It seemed like each wall and each sculpture had a lost story yet to tell.
3. A Quick Stop by the Banavasi Museum
This tiny but intriguing museum is close to the temple and features artefacts, ancient tools, and sculptures, which were used during the Kadamba reign. It provided us with a better understanding of their life then and helped us relive their grandeur.
4. Embracing the Nature's Quiet Charm
Surrounded by the illustrious Varada River, Banavasi is certainly a nature lover’s paradise. Having experienced the culture and the local people’s warmth, we spent a leisurely afternoon by the river, immersing in the peaceoffered by the rural landscape. This was made special by the singing birds and gentle breeze whispering past leaves.
5. Grab a Taste of Local Delicacies
Don’t miss North Canara dishes at the local restaurants in and around the town. Akki rotti, kottige (idli rolled in jackfruit leaf), and banana sweets and delicacies are yummy but and firmly rooted in the local tradition.
Quick Travel Tips
Our visit to Banavasi was like stepping into the pages of a forgotten chapter in Karnataka’s history. It wasn’t crowded or loud. There were no flashy tourist spots or noisy markets. It was just calm and had an overwhelming sense of rootedness.
Here are some top tips for you that come handy:
- Best Time to Visit: October and March
- Getting There: Banavasi is around 25 km from Sirsi, which is well-connected by road from major cities like Hubli, Shimoga, and Bangalore.
- Options to Stay: Although there are basic guesthouses at Banavasi, a stay near Sirsi or at a heritage homestay is preferable.
- Clothing Options: Dressing modestly helps, as you will be going to temples.
- Hire a Local Guide: Their knowledge and anecdotes will help you relate to the place’s rick history.
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