The Banashankari Temple is near Cholachagudda, 5 km from Badami. It is one of the most famous temples in the area and belongs to Banashankari Devi, a manifestation of Goddess Parvati.

A temple by the name of Banashankari is located in Cholachagudda, a village adjacent to Badami in Karnataka. It's also popular as Banashankari Devi sometimes. It is one of the most well-known Hindu shrines among the places to visit in Badami. 

The temple is the subject of numerous myths and legends about its building, past, and present. But the most intriguing thing about this temple is that they worship 'Rahu Kalam,' which is unlucky in Hindu culture. The followers of Rahukala implore him to free them from all suffering, adversity, and bad fortune.

The Dravidian and Nagara architectural styles were used in constructing and renovating the Banashankari temple, giving it a harmonious past. Every January, during the religious and cultural festival of Banashankari Jatre, it has continued its heritage of harmony as devotees from Karnataka and neighboring states flock there to express their devotion and take part in the fair and cultural events. An architectural wonder, the Haridra Tirtha is a pond in the temple complex with a large lamp over a three-story building. 

History of Banashankari Temple

The Banashankari temple, a Hindu temple dating back to the 7th century AD, is believed to have been built by Kalyani Chalukya kings. The temple's history could be clearer, but inscriptions from 1019 AD describe the bravery of Rashtrakuta king Bhimadeva. The temple's architecture has Dravidian, Vijayanagara, and Islamic influences, with the entrance ascribed to a warrior named Ketimayya. The temple's exact origin remains unsolved.

Festival

Jatre, meaning fair, is a religious and cultural festival held in January, starting from Rathyatra. It entails carrying a deity through the city, making prayers, and fostering intercultural harmony. The festival features music, drama, a circus, and makeshift shops selling sweets, clothing, and sacred artifacts. The Teppotsavam boat festival involves parents using banana leaf boats to pray for their newborns. The best time for the Badami tour package is from October to January.