Shravanabelagola is a small town near Channarayapatna in the Hassan district of Karnataka, about 144 km from Bengaluru. It is famous for the Gommateshwara statue, a major pilgrimage site for followers of Jainism. This giant statue was built during the time of the Western Ganga dynasty, known for supporting art and architecture. The town also has historical importance, as it is believed that Chandragupta Maurya, after becoming a Jain monk, spent his last years here and passed away in 298 BCE.
places to visit in Shravanabelagola
Chandragiri
Chandragiri is one of the two hills in Shravanabelagola, the other being Vindhyagiri. It is a sacred site for Jains and has many ancient temples and monuments. The hill has a peaceful atmosphere and offers scenic views. It is often visited by pilgrims and history lovers. The climb up the hill is lined with historic carvings and inscriptions.
Bhagawan Bahubali Idol
The idol of Bhagawan Bahubali is a huge monolithic statue carved around 981 A.D. It stands on Vindhyagiri Hill and is a major Jain pilgrimage site. Many steps lead up to the statue, making the journey part of the spiritual experience. The statue symbolizes peace, sacrifice, and renunciation. It is considered one of the tallest free-standing stone statues in the world.
Bhadrabahu Cave
Bhadrabahu Cave is an important Jain site located in Shravanabelagola. It is believed that the Jain teacher Bhadrabahu meditated here. He was the last spiritual guide of Emperor Chandragupta Maurya. According to Jain tradition, Chandragupta also lived and passed away near this cave. The site is peaceful and has deep historical and religious value.
Bhandara Basadi
Bhandara Basadi, also known as Shantinatha Basadi, is a Jain temple in Jinanathapura near Shravanabelagola. It is dedicated to Lord Shantinatha, the 16th Jain Tirthankara. The temple is known for its simple yet elegant architecture. Devotees come here to pray and admire its spiritual atmosphere. It is one of the key Jain temples in the area.
Aregal Basadi
Aregal Basadi is located in Jinanathapura and was built on a rocky base. It was constructed using bricks and mortar by Hiri Achimayya. He was the son of Barma and related to Ganga Raja, a general under King Vishnuvardhana. The temple has historical and architectural significance. Its rock foundation gives it a unique identity among local temples.
Parshwanatha Basadi
Parshwanatha Basadi is located on Chandragiri Hill and is dedicated to Lord Parshwanatha, a Jain Tirthankara. The temple includes a sanctum (garbagriha), a connecting hall (sukhanasi), a main hall (navaranga), and a porch. The outer walls are beautifully carved. The wide doorways and side verandahs add charm to its structure. It is an important site for both architecture and faith.
Kattale Basadi
Kattale Basadi is a temple dedicated to Adinath, the first Jain Tirthankara. It also has an image of Goddess Padmavathi in the verandah. Built by Ganga Raja, a general under the Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana, the temple has a rich heritage. The government has recently renovated it. It remains a peaceful and sacred place for worship.
Chandraprabha Basadi
Chandraprabha Basadi is located west of Shasanabasadi in Shravanabelagola. It features an open sanctum, a sukhanasi, a navaranga, and a porch. The temple is dedicated to Chandraprabha, the eighth Jain Tirthankara. A seated idol of Chandraprabha is enshrined inside. The temple’s simple design adds to its spiritual appeal.
Best Time to Visit Shravanabelagola
Shravanabelagola is a year-round destination, but the most pleasant time to visit is from October to May. The weather during these months is cooler and ideal for sightseeing and climbing the hills. Winter, especially, attracts more visitors due to the comfortable climate. A special time to visit is during the Mahamasthabhisheka, a grand Jain festival held once every 12 years. This event draws thousands of devotees and tourists from all over the world.
