One of the most unique temples with an unusual name is the LadKhan temple. It is named after an Islamic person who used this Hindu temple as his home. This is an early 8th-century monument that was built in Panchayath style with a huge pillar hall for gathering
Nestled in the quiet village of Aihole, Karnataka—famously called the “Cradle of Indian Temple Architecture”—stands a structure that looks more like a sturdy hall than a house of worship.
The Lad Khan Temple (or Chalukya Shiva Temple) is a fascinating laboratory of design. The designers of this temple experimented with turning wooden concepts into eternal stone.
A Transition of Faith and Names
The temple’s spiritual identity has also shifted over 1,500 years. Originally dedicated to Lord Vishnu, it currently houses a Shiva Linga with a massive Nandi bull facing the inner sanctum. Some scholars even suggest it may have served as a Surya (Sun) temple. Others believe it was a royal assembly hall for the early Chalukyan kings.
Architectural Highlights
What makes the Lad Khan Temple truly stand out for modern travelers is its unique, “experiment-style” layout:
- Panchayatana Style: This structure is built in one of the earliest versions of the Panchayatana (Panchayat Hall) style. It features a large pillared hall. The temple transitions from a rectangular entrance into a square sanctuary at the rear.
- Wooden Influence in Stone: Look at the roof. You’ll see heavy stone slabs joined with stone “rafters.” These mimic ancient wooden log designs. This is a rare surviving adaptation of timber styles in sandstone.
- Two-Story Sanctum: Unusual for its time, the temple includes a second, smaller square shrine. This shrine is built directly above the main central hall. It is accessible via a stone ladder.
- Intricate Details: Don’t miss the pillars. They are adorned with carvings of river goddesses Ganga and Yamuna. Look at the intricate lattice windows. They filter soft light into the dim interior.
- Stone Ladder – Don’t miss the stone ladder that was used to climb to second floor sanctuary
Also, when you are at the LadKhan temple, take a look at 2 miniature temples outside. These two temples are supposed to be the models for building bigger temples, according to our guide
We really enjoyed visiting this unique temple for its architecture. My favorite part is the photograph of Nandi taken from the sanctuary. With the light in the background, this photo almost looks ethereal.
Peaks to Palaces 