Located in the centre of Karnataka, Sravanabelagola is a city of tremendous archaeological and religious significance for the Jains. This ancient town is famous for a monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali, an emblem of non-violence and detachment and an enthralling history for lovers and pilgrims from all parts of the country. Located against the backdrop of picturesque hills, Shravanabelagola can be best described as a rejuvenating place of pilgrimage where one can get a feel of aged-less temples, wrought-out carvings and the spirituality of Indian traditions. Regardless of whether one is looking for cultural depth or simple meditation, Shravanabelagola is most welcoming of all to enjoy the rich history of the land and to feel spirituality.
History Of Sravanabelagola
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‘Chandragiri’ and ‘Vindhyagiri’ are the two hills located in Sravanabelagola, Karnataka, which is believed to be the place where Acharya Bhadrabahu, the spiritual guide of Chandragupta Maurya and Chandragupta Maurya himself used to meditate. The Chandragupta Basadi, constructed by Ashoka and dedicated to Chandragupta Maurya, was at Chandragiri Hills in the 3rd BC. Chandragiri also boasts many murals of the Sravka (monks), believed to have commenced meditation in the 5th century AD.
It is the world’s most giant monolithic statue and a significant symbol of Jainism; it is situated on the Vindhyagiri Hills and is 58 feet tall. According to the Jain religion, Gomateshwara or Bahubali is Adi Tirthankar or the first Tirthankara propagating Jainism. It is believed that he sat in deep meditation in the standing position for 1 year, and during this specific period, plans started developing around his legs. It is then stated that after dedicating a year to meditation, he became the possessor of perfect knowledge. It was constructed by a minister of the Ganga Dynasty named Chanvundaraya in 981 AD.
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Mahamastakabhisheka: The Grand Festival
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The Mahamastakabhisheka is a periodic affair that is celebrated only once in twelve years. It is also dedicated to the statue of Bahubali Gomateshwara. It commemorates the triumph of non-violence and spreads the message of God, love, and unity among Jains and other communities. Unlike other festivals, which may take a day or two, the festival spans several days, and hundreds of thousands of devotees flock to Sravanabelagola to watch and be part of the celebrations. The main puja of the festival involves bathing the statue or idol through an anointing process where milk, honey, saffron, water mixed with sandalwood, turmeric, or even gold coins are used.
Other customs practised include worshipping the statue by presenting offerings, including prayers, flowers, fruits, and lamps; chanting hymns and mantras; dancing and singing; taking oaths of refraining from violence, telling the truth, being non-materialistic, and practising moderation. The festival represents the rich culture and heritage of Jainism as well as the diversity of India.
Top Attractions To See In Sravanabelagola
To plan a successful trip to Sravanabelagola, remember some top places. Here is a list put together especially for you to enjoy the historic place.
1. Bhandari Basadi Temple
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This temple is also situated near the Chandragiri Hill. It is treated as a holy temple similar to Adinatha, the first Tirthankara of the Jains. It was constructed by Bhandari, one of Vishnuvardhana of the Hoysala dynasty’s general and was completed in 1128. It possesses a beautiful big idol of Adinatha inside the Garbhagriha, and the Navaranga Mandap has twelve images of Tirthankaras and twelve pillars, each built in the exterior part of the temple. Another noteworthy feature of the temple is a rock inscription from Bhandari that mentions his lineage and patronage of this temple.
Location: Bhagawan Bahubali Street, Shravanbela Gola, Karnataka 573135
Distance from Sravanabelagola: 1.7 km
Related Post: Sravanabelagola Temples
2. Akkana Basadi Temple
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This temple is also situated in the region on the slopes of Chandragiri Hill. This temple is constructed in honour of Parshvanatha, the 23rd Tirthankara of Jains. Constructed in 1181 CE, this temple was commissioned by Akkana, the queen of Hoysala king Veera Ballala II. It contains an exemplary image of Parshvanatha with a seven-hooded serpent roof; its sanctum includes an image of Parshvanatha with a seven-hooded serpent over it and a hall with sixteen pillars and sixteen images of Tirthankaras. There is also a rock carving of Akkana that narrates how great a woman she was and how well she has contributed to the temple.
Location: SH 8, Shravanbela Gola, Karnataka 573135
Distance from Sravanabelagola: 1.9 km
3. Chamundaraya Basadi
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Aside from Sravanabelagola is Chandragiri Hill, which also holds considerable significance. Now, the hill has a temple named Chamundaraya Basadi, dedicated to Jain Tirthankara, Neminatha. The first Jain temple seen here was constructed in 982AD and is regarded as one of the sacred shrines for Jain followers. This layout makes it unique to have two stories, and this two-tier temple is famous for other architectural features. Pilgrims can ascend to the top of the tower since there are pretty small stairs to view the surrounding environment. Hiding taxis and autos to reach the hill from Sravanabelagola is also possible.
Location: SH47, Shravanbela Gola (Rural), Karnataka 573135
Distance from Sravanabelagola: 1.9 km
Related Post: Temples In Karnataka
Best Time To Visit Sravanabelagola
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The best time to visit Sravanabelagola: You can see this place all year round; however, the best time to visit Sravanabelagola is during winter, which is from October to March. Summers begin in April and last until June. This is one of the seasons in the state that records the highest temperatures. People are advised to avoid summer because this time comes with high humidity, temperature and problems such as dehydration. Depending on the region of the country, monsoon season begins in the early part of July and continues up to September. It rains moderately to heavily in this region so sightseeing will be hampered during this season.
Winter season begins in October and lasts up to March. The weather will be good at Sravanabelagola, which will help with sightseeing. Tourist destinations around Sravanabelagola are also at the prime beauty this season, so you can roam around the state comfortably.
How To Reach Sravanabelagola
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The town is about 51 km southeast of Hassan, 78 km from Halebidu, 89 km from Belur, 83 km from Mysore and 233 km from Mangalore. Being an important town in the Karnataka state of India, it is very well connected to all the state’s major cities.
By Air: The nearest airport is Bangalore, which is 157 km away from this place.
By Rail: Sravanabelagola has a Railway junction, but there are only limited trains connecting it, and one has to board local trains to reach this place. The nearest Big station is Hassan, 57 km away, and Bangalore is 157 km away. Dadar-Mysore Sharavati Express and Talaguppa Mysore Intercity Express are the trains that connect Mysore with Hassan, and Yeshvantpur-Karwar Express is the train that connects Bangalore with Hassan.
By Road: The place is conveniently located and easily accessible from Bangalore, Mysore, and Hassan. Hassan has many daily buses that can reach all the nearest and far destinations. Thus, travelling to Sravanabelagola through Channarayapatna is always better, as no direct buses are available from Hassan City. From Channarayapatna, tourists can take advantage of autos, private cars, taxis, and bus services to travel to this holy town.
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Whether one is a pilgrim looking to find inner peace, a history lover who wants to see magnificent monuments or just a traveller, Sravanabelagola is a destination with a purpose. Do not miss the opportunity to visit the centre of Karnataka. Be sure to come immediately; book your trip to Karnataka today to make some fantastic travel memories!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Sravanabelagola
Are there any charges for entry to the temples in Sravanabelagola?
There is no special entry fee for sightseeing in the temples of Sravanabelagola. However, some services, like hiring a guide, may have other incidental costs. It is also good if donations are offered to the temples. Still, they are not mandatory.
What kind of souvenir can I purchase in this area of Sravanabelagola?
Some of the items that are common features of Sravanabelagola are Bahubali idols, Jain idols, state handicrafts, and artwork. These items can be purchased from shops and stalls around the temples and from the craftsmen who produce them.
Is there any Jain library or culture centre in Sravanabelagola?
In Sravanabelagola, there are libraries and cultural centres dedicated to Jainism. These centres keep manuscripts and artefacts and provide information about Jainism's history and principles.
What popular foods and local cuisine should I consider eating while in Sravanabelagola?
Sravanabelagola serves traditional South Indian vegetarian dishes and also accommodates Jain meals. It would help if you did not miss having dosa, idli, vada, sambar, and other rice dishes. These dishes are sold at the restaurants around the temple complex.
Are there any volunteer activities in Sravanabelagola?
If you are interested in volunteering or community activities in Sravanabelagola, you can inquire about the local organizations or cultural centres associated with Jainism. Opportunities such as environmental initiatives, educational programs, and cultural events will be available.
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