Shravanabelagola is a town located in the Hassan district of Karnataka, India. It is famous for its enormous statue of Gommateshwara Bahubali, a significant Jain pilgrimage site. This statue is the world's tallest monolithic statue and is one of the most impressive sculptures in India. The town is surrounded by scenic hills and is a popular tourist destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. In this article, we will explore the history and significance of Shravanabelagola, as well as the attractions and activities that visitors can enjoy.
History and Significance
Shravanabelagola has a rich history dating back over 2,000 years. It was the capital of the powerful Western Ganga dynasty in the 6th century and later became an important center of Jainism. The town is named after the Jain monk Shravana who is said to have performed penance here. The Bahubali statue, which stands at a height of 57 feet, was carved in the 10th century by the Ganga dynasty king Chavundaraya. The statue is a symbol of Jainism's commitment to non-violence and is considered one of the most important Jain pilgrimage sites in India.
Attractions and Activities
The most popular attraction in Shravanabelagola is, of course, the Gommateshwara Bahubali statue. The statue is located on top of a hill called Vindyagiri and can be reached by climbing a flight of around 600 steps. The climb is quite challenging, but the stunning views from the top are well worth the effort. Visitors are required to remove their footwear before climbing the hill, and photography is not allowed in certain areas of the temple complex.
In addition to these, there are also several other temples, tanks, and structures in the town that are worth exploring. One such structure is the Chandragiri Hill Fort, which offers stunning views of the town and surrounding landscape. The fort was built in the 17th century and played an important role in many historical battles.
Another must-visit attraction in Shravanabelagola is the Kalyani or the Gullakayajji Pushkarni tank. This is a large, rectangular tank that was built in the 10th century by the Ganga dynasty. It is said to have been used for bathing by the Jain monks who used to live in the town. The tank has a small temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Gullakayajji, which adds to its significance.
Apart from these attractions, Shravanabelagola is also known for its local cuisine, which is a blend of Kannada and Jain influences. The town is famous for its speciality dish called "Bisi Bele Bath", a spicy rice and lentil dish that is a staple in most households in Karnataka. Other must-try dishes include the Akki Roti (rice flour flatbread), Jolada Roti (jowar flour flatbread), and Mysore Pak (a sweet made from gram flour and sugar syrup).
For those interested in history and culture, a visit to the Shravanabelagola Archaeological Museum is a must. The museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the town's rich history, including ancient sculptures, inscriptions, and coins. The museum is open from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM every day except Monday.
Nature lovers can explore the beautiful hills and valleys surrounding Shravanabelagola. The nearby Chandragiri and Vindhyagiri hills offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and there are several hiking trails in the area. Visitors can also take a stroll through the town's colorful markets and sample some of the local cuisine, which is a unique blend of Jain and Kannada flavors.
Accommodation
Shravanabelagola has several accommodation options for visitors, including budget hotels, guesthouses, and resorts. The rooms are clean, comfortable, and reasonably priced, with most offering basic amenities such as air conditioning, hot water, and Wi-Fi. Some of the popular accommodation options include the Jain Math and Dharmashala, the KSTDC Mayura Bhuvaneshwari Hotel, and the Hotel Yatri Nivas.
How to Reach
Shravanabelagola is located about 150 kilometers from Bangalore, and the easiest way to reach is by road. The town is well connected by buses and taxis, and there are several private tour operators that offer day trips from Bangalore. The nearest railway station is in Hassan, about 50 kilometers from Shravanabelagola, and there are regular trains