The ancient capital of the early Chalukya kingdom, Badami is well known for its rich history and ancient architecture. A number of richly carved monuments and caves belonging to Chalukyas, dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries are found here. The Chalukyas laid the foundation of a unique style of architecture, which is a fine blend of North Indian Nagara style and the South Indian Dravidian style of architecture. The architecture and sculptures formed in Badami during the time of the Chalukyas inspired later-day architectural and sculpting traditions.

Go up the sandstone hill and you will come across cave 2, which is dedicated to Vishnu. It is indeed a sight to see Vishnu depicted as a dwarf or Trivikrama of grand dimensions with one foot mastering the Earth and the other the sky. Another form of Vishnu portrayed here is in Varaha or as a boar. Then there is a frieze depicting Vishnu as Lord Krishna, Vishnu riding the Garnda & lotus surrounded by sixteen fishes.

The facade of the third cave is nearly 70 feet wide, and the sheer artistry and sculptural genius makes this cave the highlight of Deccani art. It gives a virtual insight into the art and culture of the 6th century like costumes, jewelry hairstyle lifestyle etc. The other attractions to be looked out for in this cave are the images of Vishnu with a serpent, Vishnu as Narasimha (Vishnu as Man-Lion) Varaha, Harihara (Shiva Vishnu) and Vishnu as Trivikrama.