Gadag District of Karnataka is famous as the birthplace of some of the renowned poets and authors of the state. Gadag is the birthplace of Naranappa, also known as Kumara Vyasa, author of the Karnataka Bharata Kathamanjari, the classic Mahabharata in Kannada. The place is also famous for various ancient shrines, museums, religious centres and monuments.
The Veera Narayana Temple and Trikuteshwara Temple represent Chalukya, Hoysala and Vijayanagara architectural styles and are major attractions. The Trikuteshwara Temple is one of the prominent 50 temples that were constructed by the Kalyani Chalukyan kings. The main shrine has a Shivalinga representing Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara.
The Dambala Temple is another prominent group of temples, located in Dambala Town. The Dodda Basappa Temple, constructed by the Kalyani Chalukyan Rulers, is also popular. The temple has stone carved pillars and walls and is known for its engravings and rosettes.
The Kashivishveshwar Temple, Jain Temple at Lakkundi and Buddhist Shrine dedicated to Goddess Tara Devi are some of the other tourist attractions near Gadag. Rameshwara Temple, Saraswathi Temple and Someshwara Temple are the other attractions.
