Shravanabelagola

Perched between two rocky hills in the Hassan district of Karnataka, Shravanabelagola is a place where spirituality, history, and breathtaking landscapes come together. Home to the tallest monolithic statue in the world, this Jain pilgrimage center has been a sacred destination for centuries.

Whether you’re a devotee seeking blessings, a history buff fascinated by ancient inscriptions, or a traveler looking for a peaceful retreat, Shravanabelagola offers a unique experience that leaves a lasting impression.

A Glimpse into Shravanabelagola’s History

Shravanabelagola has been a prominent Jain pilgrimage site for over a thousand years. The name Shravanabelagola means “White Pond of the Shravana”, referring to the beautiful lake at the town’s center and the serene atmosphere surrounding it.

The site gained prominence during the reign of the Ganga dynasty (4th–10th century AD) and later under the Hoysala dynasty (12th–14th century AD). Jain monks, kings, and devotees have contributed to its spiritual and architectural heritage, making it one of the most revered Jain sites in India.

The Majestic Bahubali Statue – An Icon of Jainism

The highlight of Shravanabelagola is the 57-foot-tall statue of Lord Bahubali (Gommateshwara), standing atop Vindhyagiri Hill.

What Makes the Bahubali Statue Special?

• Carved from a single block of granite, it is the tallest monolithic statue in the world.
• The statue was commissioned in 981 AD by Chavundaraya, a minister of the Ganga dynasty.
• It depicts Lord Bahubali, a revered Jain saint known for his deep meditation and renunciation of worldly pleasures.
• The facial expression of the statue reflects absolute peace and detachment, symbolizing the ultimate goal of Jainism – liberation (moksha).
• The statue has no support structures, a remarkable engineering feat for its time.

Climbing 650 steps carved into the rocky hill to reach the statue is an experience in itself, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the town below.

The Mahamastakabhisheka – A Grand Jain Festival

Every 12 years, Shravanabelagola witnesses the Mahamastakabhisheka, a grand anointment ceremony of Lord Bahubali’s statue.

During this sacred event, devotees and monks perform ritualistic bathing of the statue with:

• Milk – Symbolizing purity
• Turmeric – Representing good health
• Sandalwood paste – Denoting calmness
• Saffron and vermillion – Symbolizing devotion
• Gold and silver flowers – As a mark of reverence

The festival attracts thousands of Jain devotees and tourists from around the world, making it one of the biggest religious events in India. The next Mahamastakabhisheka is scheduled for 2030.

Chandragiri Hill – A Treasure Trove of Jain Heritage

Opposite Vindhyagiri Hill lies Chandragiri Hill, home to several ancient Jain temples (basadis) and historical inscriptions dating back to 600 AD.

Must-Visit Attractions on Chandragiri Hill:

• Chandraprabha Basadi – Dedicated to the 8th Jain Tirthankara, Chandraprabhu.
• Parshwanatha Basadi – Featuring a stunning idol of Lord Parshwanatha, the 23rd Tirthankara.
• Bhadrabahu Cave – Where the great Jain monk Acharya Bhadrabahu meditated, and where Chandragupta Maurya, the founder of the Maurya Empire, spent his last days as a Jain ascetic.
• More than 800 inscriptions in Kannada and Sanskrit, providing insights into Jainism and ancient Karnataka’s history.

Chandragiri is a less crowded yet spiritually enriching destination, offering a glimpse into the simplicity and devotion of Jain monks from centuries ago.

Best Time to Visit Shravanabelagola

The best time to visit Shravanabelagola is October to March, when the weather is pleasant for exploring the hills and temples. If you want to witness the grand Mahamastakabhisheka, plan your visit in 2030.

How to Reach Shravanabelagola

• By Air: The nearest airport is Bangalore International Airport (157 km).
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Hassan (50 km), well connected to major Karnataka cities.
• By Road:
  • From Bangalore: 143 km (3-hour drive) via NH 75
  • From Mysore: 83 km (2-hour drive)
  • From Hassan: 50 km (1-hour drive)

Regular KSRTC buses and private taxis make it easy to reach Shravanabelagola.

Where to Stay in Shravanabelagola

While the town itself has basic guesthouses for pilgrims, better accommodations are available in Hassan or Channarayapatna.

• Luxury: Hoysala Village Resort, Hassan
• Mid-range: The Ashhok Hassan
• Budget: Jain Dharmashala, Shravanabelagola

Why Visit Shravanabelagola?

1. Spiritual Serenity – Whether you’re Jain or not, the peaceful ambiance of this pilgrimage town is soul-refreshing.
2. Architectural Marvel – The Bahubali statue is a rare masterpiece of ancient Indian sculpture.
3. Historical Significance – The town has deep connections to the Mauryan Empire, the Gangas, and the Hoysalas.
4. A Unique Experience – Climbing Vindhyagiri Hill and witnessing the vast landscape from the top is an unforgettable journey.

Conclusion

Shravanabelagola is more than just a Jain pilgrimage site—it is a place of spiritual wisdom, historical treasures, and architectural brilliance. Whether you’re seeking peace, history, or an adventure, this sacred town welcomes you with open arms.

So, when are you planning your trip to this timeless spiritual haven? 🌿✨

Have you visited Shravanabelagola? Share your experience in the comments! 😊