Vindhyagiri Betta — Attraction in Karnataka

The Gommateshwara statue (ಗೊಮ್ಮಟೇಶ್ವರ) is the tallest monolithic statue in the world, carved out of a single block of granite. It is 57-foot (17 m) high monolithic and located on Vindyagiri at Shravanbelagola in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is so tall that it can be seen from 30 km away. symbolizes Peace, Non violence, sacrifice worldly affairs, and simple living as followed by Jainism. 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 Jainfigure Bahubali. It was built around 983 C.E. and is one of the largest free standing statues in the world.[1] The construction of the statue was commissioned by the Ganga dynasty minister and commander, Chavundaraya. Neighboring areas have Jain temples known as basadis and 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.[2] 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 statueHeinrich Zimmer attributed this anointment as the reason for the statue's freshness.[1] The next abhisheka will be in 2030.[3] bhisheka will be in 2030.[3] In 2007, the statue was voted as the first of Seven Wonders of India in a Times of India poll; 49% of the total votes went in favor of it.[4] ³

bhisheka will be in 2030.[3] In 2007, the statue was voted as the first of Seven Wonders of India in a Times of India poll; 49% of the total votes went in favor of it.[4] bhisheka will be in 2030.[3] In 2007, the statue was voted as the first of Seven Wonders of India in a Times of India poll; 49% of the total votes went in...

One of the best weekend holiday Pilgrimage and heritage destination, within 150 km from Bangalore, Vindhyagiri also known as Odegala Basadi, Udayagiri and Sravanabelagola. Dedicated to the Jain Tirthankaras Neminatha, Shantinatha and Adinatha, the temple rests on top of Vindhyagiri hill in Sravanbelagola. Try to reach Sravanabelagola in the morning because once the sun raises up the rock will become hot that may spoil your mood of enjoy the intricate carvings and elegant craftsmanship that showcase the workmanship of Ganga dynasty. Because the temple is situated on top of the rock hill, you have to be ready to climb 650 steps in barefoot under scorching sun, so don't forget to wear a hat, it will take 20-30min walk to reach, on the way you can sea ancient scrips on rocks. Once you reach the summit you see the representation of Ganga's rock-cut architectural form in Akhanda-bagilu the main entrance of the temple and the gigantic statue of Gommateshvara Bahubali which stands 58ft tall monolithic statue carved out of single stone, the largest monolithic stone statue in the world, and also the carved idol of Lord Bahubali's brother Bharata's near the temple. One of the most important features of this place is that once in 12Years Mahamastakabhisheka Pooja will be done where abhisheka for statue will be performed using Milk, Sree Gandha powder, Sugarkane Juice, etc worth watching abhisheka Pooja once in a life time. Another one is Udayagiri or Chandragiri which is exactly opposite to this temple which is also Jain pilgrimage place.

Best time to visit - January - March...

Vindhyagiri Hill opposite to Chandragiri hill is located in the town of Shravanbelagola in Karnataka.The Gommateshwara statue is a 57-foot high, it is carved on top of Vindhyagiri Hill. It is carved of a single stone. There are many Jain temples known as basadis and several images of the Tirthankaras on both the hills.

You can find various stone inscriptions and many markings made on stone which is preserved by placing transparent glass on such markings on both the hills.

There is also a beautiful lake at the foot steps of the Vindhyagiri Hill which looks very nice from the top of the hill. Vindhyagiri Hill and top part of the statue and some basadis can be seen from the top of the Chandagiri Hill. Chandagiri Hill and some basadis can be seen from the top of the Vindhyagiri Hill

How to reach from Bangalore? Take a bus from Bangalore to Channarayapattna. From Channaryapattna you can get a bus to Shravanbelagola. It is easily accessable by public transport (KSRTC buses). The bus stand is about 600 meters from main entrance of Vindhyagiri Hill and about 150 metres main entrance of Chandragiri Hill. There is also Shri Mutt at distance of about 250 metres. Also the serve free food. Besides there is a Goshala where cows are taken care of by the Mutt.

Best time to visit is before afternoon as the steps become very hot during afternoon. There is drinking water, washroom facility and shoe/chappal stand at the entrance. There are many eateries near the Hill and also a small market...