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In the Land of Gomateshwara

Bahubali
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I planned a trip to Shravanabelagola, a popular Jain pilgrimage center.  It is a small town in Hassan District of Karnataka.  Asia’s largest statue of Bahubali stands here.  From Kochi, it is 430 km to Shravanabelagola, the route being Thrissur – Pattambi – Nilambur – Gudalur – Bandipur – Mysore – Krishnarajpet – Shravanabelagola.  It holds an important place among Jain pilgrimage destinations.  Shravanabelagola is a historical temple town in South Karnataka. 

Shravanabelagola
Shravanabelagola

The predominant hills in this place are Chandragiri Hill and Vindhyagiri Hill.  It is on top of the Vindhyagiri Hill that the famous statue of Bahubali is built.  The statue is 58 feet high and is chiseled out of a single stone.  I reached Shravanabelagola a day before.

Shravanabelagola
Shravanabelagola

The next day early morning itself, I started climbing Vindhyagiri Hill for seeing the statue of Bahubali.  There is a flight of 600 steps which are cut out of rocks.  On climbing a few steps, I could see beautiful scenery all around. 

Bahubali
Bahubali

The early morning scenery of Shravanabelagola is really enjoyable.  There is a famous pond which is known as ‘White Pond’ [Bela means white and gola means pond, it is said that Shravanabelagola got its name from this].

White Pond
White Pond

When I felt tired climbing the hill, I stood for some time and enjoyed the beauty of the place.  I reached the top of the hill, climbing and resting at times.  The temple is built of large granite blocks supported by large slabs of granite.  I went inside and saw the grand statue. Gomateshwar is the Bahubali king who renounced worldly pleasures for leading a spiritual life.

Bahubali
Bahubali

It is interesting to watch the smiling but serious face of Gomateshwar.  The serene face created a feeling of peace in my mind.  Here, customary rites and rituals of Jainism are conducted every day.  The priests and saints here do not wear clothes, they are completely naked.

There are around 30 Thirthankar statues in the small rooms in the corridor surrounding the statue of Gomateshwar.  Each statue is more beautiful than the other. 

Carvings On The Temple Walls
Carvings On The Temple Walls

The Bahubali statue was built in A.D. 981.  There is a rock on which some ancient writings are protected with pane from fading.  Every 12 years, Mahamastakabhisheka is held.  This is a renowned festival.  It was last held in the year 2006. 

Ceremonial Hall
Ceremonial Hall

There are beautiful carvings on the temple walls.  Outside the temple, there is a ceremonial hall.  The view from the top of the hill is enticing.  After worshipping Bahubali and enjoying the beauty, I started climbing down Vindhyagiri Hill.

Ashok SP

About Author

Hi, I'm Ashok SP. I've been traveling the world for over two decades, capturing the beauty and diversity of every place I visit. My journey has taken me to many countries, where I’ve documented my experiences through photos, videos, and blog posts. Through my travels, I aim to share the incredible sights, cultures, and stories I've encountered along the way. Join me as I explore, photograph, and write about the wonders of our world, one adventure at a time.

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