Karkala Shri Gommateshwara Statue — Attraction in Karnataka

Gommateshwara Statue is a 57-foot (17 M) high monolithic statue located on Vindyagiri at Shravanbelagola in the Indian state of Karnataka.

Vindyagiri Hill is one of the two hills in Shravanabelagola; the other is Chandragiri, which is also a seat of several ancient Jain centers, much older than Gommateshwara statue.

The Gommateshwara statue is dedicated to the Jain figure Bahubali. It was built around 983 A.D. and is one of the largest free standing statues in the world.

The construction of the statue was commissioned by the Ganga dynasty minister and commander, Chavundaraya.

Neighboring areas have Jain temples known as basadisand several images of the Tirthankaras.

Chandragiri is dedicated to the Jain figure Bharat, the brother of Bahubali and the son of the first tirthankara Adinatha.

One can have a beautiful view of the surrounding areas from the top of the hill.

An event known as Mahamastakabhisheka attracts devotees from all over the world.The Mahamastakabhisheka festival is held once in 12 years, when the Gommateshwara statue is anointed with milk, saffron, ghee, sugarcane juice (ishukrasa) etc. from the top of the statue.

The statue depicts the prolonged meditation of Bahubali. The motionless contemplation in kayotsarga (standing still) posture led to the growth of climbing vines around his legs.The image of Gommateshwara has curly hair ringlets and large ears. The eyes are open as if he is viewing the world with detachment. His facial features are perfectly chiseled with a faint touch of a smile at the corner of the lips that embodies a calm inner peace and vitality. His shoulders are broad, the arms stretch straight down and the figure has no support from the thigh upwards.

There is an anthill in the background which signifies his incessant penance. From this anthill, emerge a snake and a creeper which twine around both the legs and arms culminating as a cluster of flowers and berries at the upper portion of the arms. The entire figure stands on an open lotus signifying the totality attained in installing this unique statue. On either side of Gommateshwara stand two tall and majestic chauri bearers in the service of the Lord. One of them is a yaksh and the other one is a yakshini. These richly ornamented and beautifully carved figures complement the main figure. Carved on the rear side of the anthill is also a trough for collecting water and other ritual ingredients used for the sacred bath...

A Soulful Visit to Karkala Shri Gommateshwara Statue

Our recent family trip to the magnificent Shri Gommateshwara Statue in Karkala was a truly awe-inspiring experience. Nestled amidst the serene beauty of the Western Ghats, this towering statue of Lord Bahubali stands as a testament to the rich spiritual and cultural heritage of Karnataka.

The journey to the hilltop where the statue is located was delightful, offering scenic views and a calming atmosphere. As we approached the site, the sheer grandeur of the monolithic statue left us mesmerized. Standing tall at an impressive height of 42 feet, the Gommateshwara Statue is an engineering marvel carved out of a single stone, reflecting the exquisite craftsmanship of ancient times.

The sense of peace and spirituality at the site is palpable. The statue, with its serene expression and posture of deep meditation, seemed to radiate tranquility, making it a perfect place for introspection and connection with oneself.

The surrounding temple complex, with its beautifully carved stone structures, further added to the spiritual ambiance. The priests and staff were welcoming, guiding us through the rituals and sharing fascinating insights into the history and significance of the statue.

One of the highlights of the visit was the breathtaking panoramic view from the hilltop. The lush greenery and the distant mountains provided a perfect backdrop, creating a tranquil environment that we cherished as a family.

The place is well-maintained, with facilities for visitors to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Climbing the steps to reach the statue was a bit of an effort, but the rewarding experience at the top made it worthwhile.

Our visit to Karkala Shri Gommateshwara Statue was not just a sightseeing trip but a spiritual journey that brought our family closer to Karnataka’s rich Jain heritage. It is a destination that beautifully combines art, history, and spirituality, leaving a lasting impression on anyone who visits.

We highly recommend this place to anyone seeking peace, inspiration, and a glimpse into the profound cultural legacy of Karnataka. It was a day filled with awe, reverence, and cherished memories...

Nestled in the tranquil town of Karkala, Karnataka, the Gommateshwara Statue stands tall, embodying the Jain principles of peace and non-violence. This remarkable statue, dedicated to the revered figure Bahubali, serves as a beacon of spiritual enlightenment.

Constructed in 1432 CE by Veera Pandya Bhairarasa Wodeyar of the Santara dynasty, under the guidance of Lalitakirti, the Bhattaraka of Karkala Jain Matha, this monument is a testament to ancient craftsmanship and devotion.

🌅 Sunset View Point: Experience the ethereal beauty of the sunset from the vantage point near the statue, where the hues of the evening sky complement the serenity of the surroundings.

💰 No Entry Fees, Only Parking Fees: Admission to this sacred site is free, with only a nominal parking fee of Rs. 50, ensuring accessibility to all who seek solace and reflection.

🙏 Divine Etiquette: As you step into this divine space, remember to maintain decorum and reverence. Respect the sanctity of the place by keeping noise to a minimum and embracing the tranquility it offers.

🌳 Enjoy the Back View: Take a moment to appreciate the scenic beauty surrounding the Gommateshwara Statue. The lush greenery and serene ambiance provide a perfect backdrop for introspection and contemplation.

✨ Create a Review: Visiting Gommateshwara Statue was a truly enriching experience. The sunset view from the nearby point was breathtaking, and the absence of entry fees made it accessible to all. The atmosphere exuded peace and spirituality, reminding me to cherish simplicity and non-violence in my own life. I was captivated by the beauty of the surroundings, and the silence enveloping the area allowed for a profound connection with nature and self. A must-visit for those seeking inner peace and spiritual rejuvenation.

Remember to leave only footprints and take away cherished memories from this sacred...