The Chalukyan style of architecture is best exemplified by temples at Badami. The Chalukyan dynasty was a major power in southern India from the 6th to the 12th centuries. They were patrons of the arts and architecture, and their temples are some of the finest examples of Indian temple architecture. The Badami temples are located in the Badami cave complex in Karnataka, India. They were built in the 6th and 7th centuries by the Chalukyan kings Pulakeshin I and his son, Kirtivarman I. The temples are carved out of the sandstone cliffs of the Badami hills. They are a fine example of Chalukyan architecture, which is characterized by its use of intricate carvings, bold sculptures, and soaring towers. The Badami temples are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The other options are also important Chalukyan temples, but they do not exemplify the Chalukyan style of architecture as well as the Badami temples. The Belur temples are located in Belur, Karnataka, India. They were built in the 12th century by the Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana. The temples are a fine example of Hoysala architecture, which is characterized by its use of intricate carvings, delicate sculptures, and graceful towers. The Aihole temples are located in Aihole, Karnataka, India. They were built in the 6th and 7th centuries by the Chalukyan kings Pulakeshin I and his son, Kirtivarman I. The temples are a fine example of early Chalukyan architecture, which is characterized by its use of simple lines, bold sculptures, and low towers. The Hampi temples are located in Hampi, Karnataka, India. They were built in the 14th and 15th centuries by the Vijayanagara kings. The temples are a fine example of Vijayanagara architecture, which is characterized by its use of intricate carvings, bold sculptures, and soaring towers.