Aihoḷe is a temple complex in the Bagalkot district. It is a very popular tourist spot in north Karnataka. It lies to the east of Pattadakal, along the Malaprabha River, while Badami is to the west of both. According to mythology Aihole is the place where Parashurama washed his axe after killing the Kshatriyas. Aihole has historical significance and is called as cradle of Hindu rock architecture. Aihole was the first capital of the early Chalukyas. Chalukya emblem of Aihole depicts Vishnu in Varaha form. A 6th century stone emblem.