About Shravanabelagola Jain Temple
Shravanabelagola Jain Temple is a prominent Jain pilgrimage town located in the Hassan district of Karnataka, India. It is most famous for the awe inspiring Gommateshwara Bahubali statue, a 58.8-foot monolithic sculpture carved out of a single block of granite. Erected around 983 CE by the Ganga dynasty minister Chavundaraya, the statue stands atop Vindhyagiri Hill and depicts Bahubali, a revered figure in Jainism who renounced worldly possessions and attained enlightenment through deep meditation. The statue’s serene expression and the vines entwined around its body symbolize absolute detachment and spiritual victory. Shravanabelagola is also known for its historic Mahamastakabhisheka festival, a grand Jain ceremony held once every 12 years, during which the statue is bathed in milk, saffron, ghee, and other sacred offerings. The last such event was held in 2018. The town is flanked by two hills, Vindhyagiri and Chandragiri, the latter housing ancient Jain temples, inscriptions, and shrines dating back to the 9th and 10th centuries. Apart from its religious significance, Shravanabelagola is admired for its rich cultural heritage and impressive architecture. It is easily accessible by road and rail, located about 145 km from Bengaluru and 85 km from Mysuru, making it a must-visit destination for both spiritual seekers and history enthusiasts.
History of Shravanabelagola Jain Temple
Shravanabelagola has a rich and sacred history deeply rooted in Jainism and Indian spiritual heritage. Its name, derived from “Shravana” (the Jain ascetic) and “Belagola” (white pond), refers to the white pond situated between the two prominent hills of the town Vindhyagiri and Chandragiri. This town has been a revered center of Jain pilgrimage for more than two millennia.
Historically, Shravanabelagola Jain Temple gained immense significance during the Ganga dynasty in the 10th century, particularly under the patronage of Chavundaraya, a minister and commander-in-chief. He commissioned the massive monolithic statue of Bahubali (Gommateshwara) in 983 CE on Vindhyagiri Hill. This statue, carved out of a single piece of granite, is one of the tallest free-standing statues in the world and symbolizes non-violence, renunciation, and self-realization core principles of Jain philosophy.
Even before the construction of the Bahubali statue, Shravanabelagola was an important spiritual hub for Jain monks and scholars. The Chandragiri Hill is believed to have been visited by Bhadrabahu, the last Shrutakevali (one who knew all Jain scriptures), and Chandragupta Maurya, the first emperor of the Maurya dynasty, who later renounced his throne and became a Jain monk under Bhadrabahu’s guidance. According to legend, both Bhadrabahu and Chandragupta attained salvation (moksha) at Chandragiri.
Throughout history, several Jain dynasties, including the Hoysala, Vijayanagara, and Wodeyar rulers, continued to support and preserve Shravanabelagola, leading to the construction of many Jain basadis (temples), inscriptions, and monuments that still stand today. Over 800 inscriptions, some dating back to the 7th century CE, have been found here, making it a significant site for historians studying Jain literature and South Indian heritage.
Today, Shravanabelagola stands as a symbol of India’s ancient wisdom, peace, and artistic grandeur. It continues to attract pilgrims, historians, and tourists from all over the world, especially during the Mahamastakabhisheka festival held every 12 years.
How to reach?
By Air
- Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (165 km)
- Connected to all major Indian and international cities.
- From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Shravanabelagola.
- Mysuru Airport (~85 km) is another option for domestic travelers.
By Train
- Shravanabelagola Railway Station (SVB)
- Located just 3 km from the main town.
- Part of the Bengaluru–Hassan railway line, with regular trains from Bengaluru, Hassan, and Mysuru.
- Auto-rickshaws and taxis are easily available at the station.
By Road
- From Bengaluru: 145 km (about 3.5–4 hours) via Nelamangala–Kunigal–Channarayapatna route on NH75.
- From Mysuru: 85 km (about 2–2.5 hours) via Krishnaraja Sagar–KRS Road or NH275.
- From Hassan: 50 km (about 1–1.5 hours).
Reaching the Temple
Once in Shravanabelagola town, reaching the Bahubali statue atop Vindhyagiri Hill involves climbing about 600–700 steps carved into the hill. It’s best to wear comfortable shoes and start early in the morning, especially in warmer months.
