Shravanabelagola: The Spiritual Gem of Karnataka**

 **Shravanabelagola: The Spiritual Gem of Karnataka**


Located in the Hassan district of Karnataka, **Shravanabelagola** is among the most important Jain pilgrimage centers in India. Famous for its **towering Bahubali statue**, ancient temples, and historical importance, this holy town is visited by pilgrims, history buffs, and architecture enthusiasts from across the globe. With its peaceful atmosphere and profound spiritual value, Shravanabelagola is a destination that one must visit to experience peace and divine inspiration.


## **A Glimpse into Shravanabelagola's Legacy**


Shravanabelagola has been a major hub of **Jainism** for more than **2,000 years**. The name of the town is actually a combination of three Kannada words: **"Shravana" (sage), "Bela" (white), and "Gola" (pond)**, which describe the peaceful white pond in the town. It is here that **Chandragupta Maurya**, the illustrious Mauryan emperor, is said to have abdicated his kingdom and lived out the rest of his life as a Jain ascetic.


## **Prime Attractions in Shravanabelagola**


### **1. Gommateshwara Bahubali Statue – A Masterpiece in Stone**

The **57-foot monolithic statue** of **Lord Bahubali** is the town's prime attraction. Sculpted from a single block of granite in **981 AD**, the grand statue is the **world's tallest monolithic statue** and rises above **Vindhyagiri Hill**. Pilgrims ascend **600 steps** to receive blessings and enjoy the panoramic view from the top.


### **2. Chandragiri Hill – A Historical Treasure**

Opposite Vindhyagiri lies **Chandragiri Hill**, which is the site of **several ancient Jain basadis (temples)**, such as the **Chandraprabha Basadi and Parshwanatha Basadi**. The hill is also the resting place of **Chandragupta Maurya**, and hence a historical attraction for enthusiasts.


### **3. Akhanda Bagilu – The Majestic Gateway**

A magnificent entrance to the temple complex, **Akhanda Bagilu** has beautiful carvings and inscriptions, a glimpse of the architectural genius of the past in the region.


### **4. Kalyani (Pushkarini) – The Holy Pond**

The **Kalyani**, the holy pond at the foot of the hill, is said to be of divine importance. Pilgrims bathe in its waters before going up the hill for darshan.


### **5. Bhandari Basadi – A Hidden Gem**

Constructed during the **12th century**, this stunning Jain temple reflects magnificent **Hoysala architecture** and contains exquisite idols of Jain Tirthankaras.


## **Mahamastakabhisheka – The Great Jain Festival**


Shravanabelagola welcomes the grand **Mahamastakabhisheka** every **12 years**, a breathtaking ritual in which the **Bahubali statue is anointed with milk, saffron, ghee, turmeric, and sandalwood paste**. The festival draws millions of pilgrims and tourists from all over the globe, making it a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual pilgrimage.


## **Best Time to Visit Shravanabelagola**


The best time to visit is from **October to March**, when the climate is mild and comfortable for ascending the hills and touring the temples.


## **How to Reach Shravanabelagola**


- **By Road:** Well linked by road, Shravanabelagola is **140 km from Bengaluru**, **85 km from Mysuru**, and **52 km from Hassan**.

- **By Train:** The closest railway station is **Shravanabelagola Railway Station (13 km away)**, with improved connectivity via Hassan and Mysuru.

- **By Air:** The closest airport is **Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (160 km away)**.


## **Why Visit Shravanabelagola?**


Whether you are a **spiritual traveler, history buff, or architecture enthusiast**, Shravanabelagola has something special to offer. From its **awe-inspiring Bahubali statue** to its **ancient Jain temples and natural beauty**, this holy town is a cultural and spiritual haven. **Plan your trip and experience the spiritual and historical majesty of Shravanabelagola!**


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