Renowned for the towering 57-foot monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali (Gommateshwara), Shravanabelagola is nestled amidist rocky hills and serene landsacaspes in Hassan district, Karnataka. The ancient town is a symbol of peace, sacrifice and spiritual awakening. With its timeless temples, inscriptions, and hilltop views, Shravanabelagola offers visitors a deep dive into Jain philosophy and South India’s architectural

Geography and Climate

Best time to visit 

Top Attractions in Shravanabelagola

Gommateshwara Bahubali Statue—The highlight of Shravanabelagola, this awe-inspiring monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali stands atop Vindhyagiri Hill. Carved out of a single block of granite in 981 AD, it symbolizes renunciation, self-control, and non-violence. The climb of around 600 steps rewards visitors with a spiritual experience and breathtaking panoramic views.

Vindhyagiri Hill—Besides the Bahubali statue, the hill also features several Basadis (Jain temples) and inscriptions dating back over a thousand years, shedding light on the rich Jain heritage of the region.

Chandragiri Hill—The smaller of the two hills, Chandragiri is home to ancient Jain monuments dedicated to saints like Chandragupta Maurya and Bhadrabahu. The Chandragupta Basadi here is an important historical site where the great emperor spent his final years as a Jain ascetic.

Kalyani (Pond)—The tranquil pond between the two hills is the namesake of Shravanabelagola and adds to the town’s serene spiritual atmosphere.

Mahamastakabhisheka Festival – Held once every 12 years, this grand event involves the anointing of the Bahubali statue with water, sandalwood paste, saffron, milk, and gold coins. It attracts pilgrims and tourists from across the world. The last ceremony was held in 2018.

Things to Do in Shravanabelagola

Local Cuisine

Shravanabelagola reflects the simplicity and devotion of Jain culture. The town promotes Ahimsa (non-violence) and vegetarianism, and most eateries serve pure Jain food, free from onion, garlic, or root vegetables. Traditional South Indian dishes like idli, dosa, and bisibele bath are widely available. The town’s residents, monks, and devotees live in harmony, following centuries-old traditions of humility and compassion.