Banavasi is the oldest town of Karnataka and the first capital of native Kannada empire Kadambas. This is a laid back temple town near Sirsi in the Malenadu region of Uttara Kannada. The place is set amidst thick forest, ancient village and river Varada flowing around it on three sides. Earlier the Banavasi was known with many names like “Konkanapura”, Vaijayanthipura”, “Jayanthipura”, “Vanavasika”, etc.
Blessed with pristine nature, ancient temples, paddy fields, wild rivers, and tumbling waterfalls this is Sureshot heaven for travellers.
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History of Banavasi
First native rulers of Karnataka, who happened to rule the entire state. Kadambas ruled from 345 AD for about 2 centuries and made Banavasi as their capital. They were the ones to make Kannada as the official language of the state. Recently, a 5th-century copper coin belonging to Krishna Verma with the inscription of Kannada scripts was discovered. This is one of the oldest coins and it’s used during Kadambas for trade purpose.
After Kadambas, the kingdom fell into hands of a lot of other dynasties like Ratrakutas, Chalukyas, the Hoysalas, Sonda, Vijayanagar, and Yadavas who played their part in developing the town.
This is possibly one of the oldest towns in Karnataka. The mere existence of the town can be dated back to 4000 BC. as.it finds a mention in Hindu Mythology Mahabharat. It was referred to as “ Vanavasika” in Mahabharat.
Besides this, Banavasi has found a mention in books of ancient travellers and philosophers from other countries. Claudius Ptolemy, a Roman geographer has mentioned about the beauty of the town in one of his work during 2nd century AD,
Huen Tsang, a Chinese traveller, had visited Banavasi during (630 – 644AD) and has mentioned about it in Chinese script. Also, traces can be found in works of the Persian scholar Alberuni.
In Fact, Banavasi was the home to great Kannada poet Adikavi Pampa. And it is believed that he wrote many of his epics sitting on the banks of river Varada.
Pampa has mentioned about this place in one of his works telling-
It is pure bliss to be born in Banavasi as a human being. If not as a human being, then at least one should be born as a bee or a cuckoo in the garden of Banavasi.- Pampa
Madhukeshwara Temple explanation
Madhukeshwara temple dedicated to Lord Shiva was built by Mayura Sharma of Kadamba dynasty in the 9th century The Shivalinga here is in honey colour and “Madhu” in Kannada literally means honey, hence the name Madhukeshwara, Unlike most of the temples which follow a specific style, this temple does not deflect any particular architecture. As the temple has undergone many changes with the change of rule.
In Addition to this, we can also notice temples of Parvati, Narasimha, Veerabadra, and Basavalinga.
Not just that, there are mandapas like Sankalpa, Nritya, and Triloka Mantapa which beautifies the temple. Sankalpa Mantapa or meeting hall was built by Chalukyas and Nritya Mantapa was built during the Hoyalas period. Triloka Mantapa that depicts the 3 worlds can be seen in carvings.
Nagadevatha sculptures that are carved with an inscription of Brahmi and Prakrit can also be seen. You can also witness a cot made out of stone within the temple.
Chandragutti fort, Gundapura lake, Unchalli falls, Yana caves, and Pampavana are some of the places you can pay a visit when you are here.
Banavasi- one of the main centres arts and Culture In Karnataka
Banavasi has been a prominent place for arts and cultural activities right from the days of Kadamba dynasty. Hence, to continue the legacy,” Kadambamahatsava” a cultural festival is organised for 3 days every year. You can witness dancers, musicians, folk artists, Yakshagana troupes, drama artists etc, performing to showcase the rich history of the town.
Food To Eat
Undoubtedly, this town produces one of the juiciest pineapples in the whole of Karnataka. As a result, you would see pineapples being used in most of their dishes. Other than this, people here are fond of having rice, Jowar or cornbread with lots of veggies, pickles, and chutneys. If you have a sweet-tooth then never missout on “Obattu with ghee” the local favourite.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a bag full of nature along with history and picture-perfect landscapes, then head to Banavasi.so, if you have any fond memories of spending your time in this quaint little temple town, please do share your stories in the comment section below.
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