Discover the awe-inspiring Shravanabelagola Gommateshwara statue, a Jain pilgrimage site steeped in history and serenity.
Wikimedia / Ananth H V
Towering 57 feet above the Vindhyagiri hill, the Gommateshwara Bahubali statue is the largest monolithic statue in Asia.
Wikimedia / Ananth H V
Legacy of Bahubali: The prince who renounced
He was the son of Rishabhanatha, the first Jain Tirthankara. He was a prince who renounced kingdom and attained enlightenment.
Wikimedia / Pratyk321
Shravanabelagola, dedicated to Bahubali Gommateshwara, is a sacred place for Jains, attracting devotees for centuries.
Wikimedia / Dey.sandip
The site's sanctity dates back centuries, with historical records suggesting Jain presence as early as 3rd century BC.
Wikimedia / Dineshkannambadi
An Ancient Legacy
Shravanabelagola is more than just the statue. Explore its temples, monasteries, and serene atmosphere.
Wikimedia / Arpa Ghosh
Beyond the Colossus: A Spiritual Complex
The 600-step climb to the statue's feet is seen as a pilgrimage in itself, offering spiritual merit.
Wikimedia / Arpa Ghosh
Steps to Enlightenment
A grand ceremony called Mahamastakabhisheka, involving the anointing of the statue, is a sight to behold (last held in Feb 2018).
The Mahamastakabhisheka
Wikimedia / Florian Maier
This second hill nearby is where founder of the Mauryan Empire, Chandragupta Maurya performed penance to attain enlightenment!
Also visit Chandragiri
Wikimedia / Pratyeka
Wikimedia / Anks.manuja
A day trip from Bangalore (160 kms) is possible. Leave early in the morning. Carry a pair of socks for climbing the stairs as they become hot later in the day. Footwear isn't allowed on the hill.