Ravana cave is one of the oldest rock cut temples in Aihole, is located south east of Hucchimalli temple. This temple dates back to the 6th century, with a rectangular shrine, with two mantapas.
About Ravanphadi Cave :
The Ravana Phadi is one of the oldest rock cut cave temples in Aihole, dating back to the 6th century AD. It is located to the south-east of the Hucchimalli Temple. Consisting of large carved pillars and a veranda, this temple houses a Shiva Linga in the inner sanctum. It features a rectangular shrine with two mantapas and its sanctum is inclusive of an entrance hall with three entrances. Its walls are also covered with various carvings of Lord Shiva. The carvings mainly depict the dancing postures of Shiva as Nataraja, surrounded by the Saptamatrikas.
Attractions Of Ravanphadi Cave in Aihole, Karnataka :
Ravanphadi Cave has large plain field in the front of outcrop and architects have used this with success.
Entrance in the cave opens to the southwest. Cave itself stands on high platform and can be reached by a flight of steps.
In the front of entrance in the temple there stands huge, monolithic pillar with a square base. Closer to the entrance is sculpture of Nandi – bull which Shiva rides. Bull is seated on platform and is facing the cave.
On both sides from entrance there are located two smaller, free-standing pillared halls, adding much effect to the magnificent architecture of entrance in temple.
Entrance in the cave is adorned with two columns adorned with stone carvings. Both sides of entrance are decorated with reliefs of fat-bellied deities. Possibly these are depictions of Kubera, guardian of wealth.
History :
Ravana Phadi cave is one of the oldest rock cut temples in Aihole, is located south east of Hucchimalli temple. This temple dates back to the 6th century, with a rectangular shrine, with two mantapas. There is a Shivalinga in the inner room or sanctum sanctorum. This is a Shaivite cave temple with a sanctum larger than that of the Badami Cave Temples. The sanctum has a vestibule with a triple entrance and has carved pillars. The walls and sides of the temple are covered with large figures including dancing Shiva.
Location :
Ravanphadi cave is a rock cut temple located south-east of the Hucchimalli Temple. This temple is said to be built in 6th century. This temple houses with two mandapatas in front of it and also a rock cut Shiva linga. Ravanphadi cave temple with a sanctum larger than that of the Badami Cave Temples. The sanctum has an entrance hall with a triple entrance and has carved panels.
