Shravanabelagola is a prominent pilgrimage town located in the Hassan district of the Indian state of Karnataka. It is one of the most significant Jain pilgrimage sites, renowned for its ancient temples, historical importance, and especially the colossal statue of Gommateshwara Bahubali. Shravanabelagola is known for its rich Jain heritage, with numerous ancient temples and inscriptions in the area. The town is mentioned in several ancient Jain texts, and it is considered a sacred place of worship and learning. The town has a significant Jain monastery and has historically been a center for Jain teachings and philosophy. Shravanabelagola has been a key center of Jain culture for over a thousand years, with inscriptions dating back to the 3rd century BCE. Notably, the Maurya Emperor Ashoka is believed to have visited this area and left his rock edicts there, which further solidify its historical significance. The town has witnessed the rise and fall of many dynasties, including the Ganga and Hoysala dynasties, both of which contributed to the town's development and the construction of its temples and monuments. Shravanabelagola is not just a religious center but also a place of historical, cultural, and architectural importance.
Climate: The climate of Shravanabelagola is typically tropical and moderately warm, characterized by three distinct seasons: summer, monsoon, and winter.
Best Time to visit: The best time to visit Shravanabelagola is during the winter months (October to February), when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities. This is also the time when pilgrims and tourists most often visit to avoid the intense heat of summer and the heavy rains of the monsoon.
How to Reach: By Air: Mysore Airport | By Rail: Hassan Railway Station
The Gommateshwara (Bahubali) Statue in Shravanabelagola, Karnataka, is a monumental Jain landmark symbolizing spirituality and asceticism. Erected in the 10th century by Ganga dynasty ruler Chamundaraya, this 58-foot (17.7-meter) statue is one of the world’s largest monolithic statues, carved from a single granite block. Bahubali is depicted in deep meditation, embodying Jain ideals of non-violence, detachment, and spiritual triumph over material desires. Visitors climb 617 steps to reach the statue, passing smaller Jain temples along the way. The Mahamastakabhisheka, a grand ritual held every 12 years, involves anointing the statue with offerings. With its simple, unadorned design, the statue reflects Jain values of renunciation and purity, while symbolic carvings at its base enhance its spiritual depth.
Timings: 6.00 am – 11.30 pm and 3.30 – 6.30 pm
Entry Fee: Nil
Vindyagiri Hill in Shravanabelagola, Karnataka, is a prominent Jain pilgrimage site known for the towering Gommateshwara (Bahubali) Statue at its summit. Rising to about 3,300 feet, the hill requires visitors to climb 617 rock-carved steps that lead through several ancient Jain temples, offering both spiritual and scenic experiences. The climb is steep but accessible, and the summit provides panoramic views of Shravanabelagola, Chandragiri Hill, and surrounding green landscapes. Vindyagiri Hill, rich in historical and spiritual significance, is a place for meditation and connection to Jain Tirthankaras, drawing pilgrims for worship and contemplation amid its natural beauty.
Chandragiri Hill, one of the two main hills in Shravanabelagola opposite Vindyagiri Hill, is an important Jain pilgrimage site rich in history and spirituality. Known for its ancient temples, inscriptions, and links to Jain heritage, it is believed to be where the Jain Council took place and where many Jain monks meditated. The hill, associated with Lord Chandranatha, the 8th Jain Tirthankara, features temples with historical and architectural significance and inscriptions from the Ganga Dynasty and later periods. Climbing Chandragiri’s stone steps provides scenic views of Vindyagiri Hill, Shravanabelagola, and surrounding landscapes, making it a serene spot for meditation and reflection.
Shravanabelagola Lake, situated at the foot of Vindyagiri Hill in Karnataka, is a serene water body integral to the spiritual landscape of Shravanabelagola. It offers visitors a peaceful retreat for relaxation and reflection after exploring the area's Jain pilgrimage sites. The lake, framed by hills and temples, enhances the spiritual ambiance of the town, symbolizing purity and tranquility in Jain tradition. It is also used for Jain rituals, especially during the Mahamastakabhisheka festival, and attracts nature lovers with its birdlife and calm setting, making it ideal for quiet walks, meditation, and contemplation.
Heritage Circuit of South India: Explore Wayanad, Mysore & Hassan
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