Archaeological Museum

The Archaeological Museum in Badami, founded in 1979, is a rich source of history from the region's time as capital of the ancient Chalukya empire. Located at the foothills of the northern hill, this treasure trove aims to collect and preserve explored materials, sculptures, inscriptions and architectural members scattered in and around Badami. It comprises four separate galleries, two of which are open air, showcasing exhibits ranging from mythological to prehistoric times, dating back to the 6th century.

The museum mainly comprises of ancient stones, tools, and sculptures. One can find a range of architectural members, inscriptions, hero stones, and carvings datable from the 6th to the 16th century. There are four galleries inside the building, as well as an open gallery in the veranda and an open-air gallery in front. The exhibits chiefly comprise of sculptures of Lord Shiva in different forms, along with deities like Lord Ganesha, the different avatars of Lord Vishnu, the holy Lajjagauri, and various panels narrating Bhagavata scenes. One of the galleries houses a scaled model of a prehistoric rock shelter, with showcases in the surrounding walls displaying stone artifacts, prehistoric art and their activities.

The masterpieces in the collection include Lajja Gouri, Makara Torana carved on both the sides, the narrative panels with intricate carvings, animal figurines of lions, elephants, Kalarimurthy, Tripurantaka Siva and Bhairavi. If one is feeling especially adventurous, a trek through the northern hill offers some truly breathtaking views of the town, the neighbouring boulders and Agastya Lake.