To read the previous blog on Hampi-Badami Day-5 click here
Day 6: Wrapping Up in Belagavi
On day 6, we got up, had breakfast and spend a slow morning at the Orchard Resort, Belagavi . We checked out by 10:30 am and started the return journey to Pune.
On the way, we explored Kamal Basdi, a beautiful Jain temple in Belagavi. The temple is inside Belagavi Fort which is administered by the Indian army. The entire fort is accessible by car.
KAMAL BASADI (RATTA JINALAYA)
Tucked inside the historic Belagavi Fort, Shri Kamala Basadi is a serene Jain temple dedicated to Shri Neminath, the 22nd of the 24 Jain Tirthankaras. The fort itself is maintained by the Indian Army, adding an element of quiet discipline to the surroundings.
The temple gets its name from a beautifully carved inverted lotus—Kamala—crafted from stone with astonishing detail and precision. This intricate design is a testament to the incredible craftsmanship of ancient India, often said to surpass even today’s imagination. The temple complex is peaceful, well-maintained, and offers a reflective escape into spiritual and architectural heritage.
Shri Neminath Tirthankar Temple (Kamal Basadi) was built in 1204 C.E. by Bichana or Bichiraja, a minister of Kartavirya IV of the Ratta dynasty, inspired by Shubhachandra Bhattarakadeva. Two inscriptions composed by Balachardradeva (Kavi Kandarpa) related to these temples, presently in the British Museum, London (U.K.), give more information on these temples. The Ranga Mantap has a massive stone lotus ceiling, hence the name Kamal Basadi. This mantap was restored in 1996 by the Archaeological Survey of India. The backdrop of the idol has a carved Kalpavruksha. The second Jaina temple in the complex can also be “traced” to the Ratta period.
We had lunch at Udupi Grand Family restaurant, Nipani where they allowed pets only in the outdoor dining. We stopped for dinner at Hotel Sadguru, Satara where they allowed pets only in the outdoor dining. After a few last meals and scenic stops on the road, we made our way back to Pune. This journey through Karnataka’s historic sites left us with unforgettable memories and a renewed appreciation for South India’s rich heritage.
From the ancient temples of Badami to the majestic ruins of Hampi, each stop was a portal to the past, and sharing it all with my husband and Sophie made it even more special. For anyone who loves history, culture, and a bit of adventure, I can’t recommend this journey enough!
I hope this blog captures the essence of your road trip and the unforgettable experiences along the way! Let me know if you’d like to add or adjust any details.
Where did we eat ?
Hotel Sadguru pure veg, Wadhe, Pune-Satara road
Amar Only veg, Karnataka
Sri Veerabhadreshwar Lingayat Khanavali
Special Tea & Coffee, Hampi
Hampi Paradise, Hampi
A1 Hotel Raj, Hubballi
Udupi Grand Family restaurant, Nipani
Hotel Sadguru, Satara
Where did we stay ?
Hotel Badami Court
Goan corner / Zostel Gangavathi
Orchard Resort, Belagavi
