Murudeshwar Mandir, having the world’s second largest Shiva Statue
The main temple"s entrance, also known as the gopura, stands at 123 ft and you can witness the amazing view of the Shiva statue from the top of the gopura.
NewsBharati 17-Jun-2022 17:04:24 PM
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When it comes to heritage, Karnataka is one of country’s underrated places. It is simply amazing how one state can be home to such a wide variety of tourist spots. With part of the Western Ghats being in this state, it is abundant in lush natural beauty. Then there are also the historic ruins of Hampi which lure several history enthusiasts.
The Shiva statue here is truly impressive, and will surely leave you with a true sense of tranquillity. The magnificent statue is a perfect tribute to a God who is held in high respect all over the world.
Interesting right? The Murudeshwar temple is a wonderful place to check out for offbeat travellers as well as Hindu devotees. The massive statue, surrounding views, and divine ambiance are sure to stay with you forever.
But one of the top places that make Karnataka an amazing destination worth is the temples. Right from their architecture, religious significance, their history or their location, most temples in Karnataka are alluring. One such temple is the unique Murudeshwar temple located in Murudeshwar.
Located in Karnataka, this powerful shrine is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple boasts of the second highest statue of Lord Shiva in the world and the size of this statue will give you with a sense of awe. This temple is situated on the Kanduka Hill, surrounded by the Arabian Sea on 3 sides. The main temple's entrance, also known as the gopura, stands at 123 feet and you can witness the amazing view of the Shiva statue from the top of the gopura.
The whole surface of this temple is covered in intricate detailes & carvings that you will ever see. The compound of the temple has been modernized excluding the sanctum sanctorum, which is in its original form. The main deity of the temple is the Sri Mridesa Linga, which is believed to be a part of the original Atma Linga.
The Shiva statue here is truly impressive, and will surely leave you with a true sense of tranquillity. The magnificent statue is a perfect tribute to a God who is held in high respect all over the world.
Legend | According to legend, the Atma Linga or the Soul of Shiva was the key to invincibility and immortality. The demon king Ravana wanted to acquire it for which he devoutly prayed to Lord Shiva. Pleased by his devotion, Lord Shiva granted him the Atma Linga, on the condition that it musn't be placed on the ground before he reaches Lanka.
But, Lord Ganesh and Lord Vishnu tricked him into placing the Linga on the ground, after which it got attached and was rendered immovable. Livid, Ravana tried to destroy the Linga, but the force of his attack only scattered the Linga to various different places, which gave rise to many sacred places throughout the country, one of them being Murudeshwar.
The statue has been strategically created to sparkle when the first light of the dawn falls upon it. Marvel at the 20-storey gopuram built adjacent to the statue. You can go up the elevator to soak in a magnificent view of the surroundings.
Also Read | Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple, a unique treasure of Hampi
Murudeshwar temple darshan bookings are completely free, you can visit any day between 6:00 am to 12 noon and 3:00 pm to 8:15 pm. The Mangalore International Airport is the closest airport to here, being 159 kilometre away. The closest railway station is the Murudeshwar Railway Station about a kilometre away from the temple.
Interesting right? The Murudeshwar temple is a wonderful place to check out for offbeat travellers as well as Hindu devotees. The massive statue, surrounding views, and divine ambiance are sure to stay with you forever.
Kinjal Dixit
Kinjal Dixit has a degree in bachelors in English and is currently pursuing her Master's in Journalism and Mass Communication. She has a hand at writing about infrastructure, culture and in sharing humanitarian stories.