Banashankari Amma Temple, Cholachagudda

Goddess Banashankari (Shakambhari, a form of Parvati)

Cholachagudda, near Badami, Bagalkot district

Folktale & Sacred Story

According to legend drawn from the Skanda Purana and Padma Purana traditions, the demon Durgamasura terrorized the people of this region until the goddess confronted and slew him in fierce battle, restoring peace and prosperity to the land; she came thereafter to be worshipped here as the protecting goddess of the forest, Banashankari.

Most Revered Practice

The annual Banashankari Jatre (car festival), held in the Hindu month of Pushya, is the temple's largest and most revered event, centered on a grand chariot procession of the deity.

Prasadam & Offerings

Prasadam details not independently verified — confirm locally.

Temple Speciality

The temple complex includes a large sacred temple tank (Haridra Tirtha) considered holy in its own right, along with a distinctive Dravidian-style gopura, and sits within easy reach of Badami's famous rock-cut cave temples.

Why Pilgrims Visit

A visit pairs well with exploring the nearby Badami cave temples and the Aihole-Pattadakal Chalukyan heritage circuit, along with experiencing the temple's vibrant annual jatre.

History & Legend

Inscriptions credit the Chalukya ruler Jagadekamalla with installing the black-stone image of Goddess Banashankari around 603 CE, close to the Chalukyan capital of Badami. Over the centuries the original shrine fell into disrepair, and the present temple structure was rebuilt in 1750 by the Maratha chieftain Parashuram Agale. The temple remains closely tied to the wider Chalukyan heritage landscape of Badami, Aihole and Pattadakal in the surrounding region.

Divine Significance

Worshipped as Vanadurga or Shakambhari, 'goddess of the forest,' Banashankari is the kuladevata (family deity) for many families across North Karnataka and Maharashtra, and the temple is one of the region's most important Shakti pilgrimage centers.

Darshan Timings

Generally open through the day for darshan, approximately 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM (please confirm exact timings with the temple before visiting, as they vary by season and festival).

How To Reach

The nearest airport is Hubballi Airport, roughly 105 km away, and the nearest railway station is Badami, about 5 km from the temple.

Where To Stay

Hotels and guesthouses are available in Badami town, a short drive from the temple.

Local Food Nearby

North Karnataka vegetarian thalis, jowar rotti and local Badami specialties are available in the nearby town.

Contact & Official Info

Visitors can contact the Banashankari Devi Temple Trust or Karnataka's Muzrai Department for visiting and festival information.

Location Map

View on Google Maps → (15.88722, 75.705)