Shravanabelagola
The shravanabelagola is a main Jain religious journey into south Karnataka and it is believed to have come into existence from the 5th century BCE along the eastern India. In addition to laying the foundation for universal renunciation, it significantly contributed to the social rejection of the Brahman or priestly class's religious tradition.
Shravanabelagola is the 18 m tall statue of lord gomateshwara and it's one of the world's free standing statues. It was constructed by the chamundaraya who is a Ganga warrior, it is a tower over Vindhyagiri Hill and was carved from a single granite block Up to 30 km away, it is visible. It is one of the most famous places for people who want to learn more information about the beliefs, culture and traditions of the Jain. To see the close up view one must climb 700 stairs that have been hewn into the rock face. The sculpture of this size is the incredible to witness. You will undoubtedly be in awe of this enormous monolithic statue of Lord Gomateshwara and all the Jain Tirthankaras are shown in the enclosures that surround them. Every year, visitors from all over the world congregate here in hopes of achieving spiritual happiness and enlightenment. Additionally, there is a Sanskrit Patashala where those who are interested can study Shastra’s and Sanskrit. To get to the summit of the hill, one must walk barefoot up approximately 660 steps. While children can ascend the slope, seniors can use the palanquin service.
Entry Fee:
There is no entry fee for the temple and photography is allowed.
Darshan time:
6:00 am to 11:30 pm and from 3:30pm to 06:30 PM open every day
Specialty of the temple:
The specialty of the shravanabelagola temple is the statue of Lord Gomateshwara which is located in the northwest of Bangalore. If you're planning a trip to Karnataka or want to take a break from hustle and bustle, then you must visit the Jain temple which is the Shravanabelagola Temple. The town has been a prominent centre for Jain art, religion, culture and the architecture. Shravanabelagola is the 18 m tall statue of Lord Gomateshwara and it's one of the world's free standing statues. Once every 12 years, there is a festival called the mahamastakabisheka that is celebrated, which attracts devotees from all over the world. Priests ascend to the top of the statue and pour hundreds of pots of coconut water, turmeric paste, milk and so on over the statue's head and a flower shower from a helicopter serves as the ceremony's stunning finale. To know more about the Jain culture and to enjoy this stunning festival, one should visit the shravanabelagola temple which is one of the best places in Karnataka.
Best time to visit the temple:
The best time to visit the temple is from September to March.
Dress code of the temple:
There is no specific dress code required.
Festival of the temple:
Once every 12 years, there is a festival called the mahamastakabisheka that is celebrated, which attracts devotees from all over the world. Priests ascend to the top of the statue and pour hundreds of pots of coconut water, turmeric paste, milk and so on over the statue's head and a flower shower from a helicopter serves as the ceremony's stunning finale. The festival is celebrated over 12 days, and a large number of people are gathered here. To know more about the Jain culture and to enjoy this stunning festival, one should visit the shravanabelagola temple which is one of the best places in Karnataka.
How to reach the temple?
By Air : The nearest airport to Shravanabelagola Temple is Bangalore Airport (BLR).
By Train :The nearest railway station to Shravanabelagola Temple is Hassan Railway Station.
By Road :Devotees or tourists can also reach Shravanabelagola Temple by road or by car it is well-connected with almost every part of southern India.
FAQ
1.Can you ascend Vindhyagiri Hill to have a close-up look at the statue?
Yes, travellers can ascend Vindhyagiri Hill to see the Gomateshwara monument up close. The statue is accessible by steps.
2.Is Shravanabelagola a place of worship for Jains?
Yes, one of the most holy Jain pilgrimage centres in India is Shravanabelagola.
3.Are there any limitations on taking photos inside the temple grounds?
There can be limits on taking photos, it is better to ask about relevant regulations on-site.
4.Can I hire a tour to find out more about the temple's significance and history?
Yes, you can hire knowledgeable guides at Shravanabelagola who are familiar with the temple's history and cultural significance.