Best Photo Spots in Shravanabelagola
Shravanabelagola is a town of stone. The Gomateshwara statue rises above Vindhyagiri, the rock-cut steps climb straight up the bare granite, and the old basadis on Chandragiri look back across the white pond that gives the town its name.
Most of the good photos here come from the two hilltops, so plan your day around the climbs. These are the best photo spots in Shravanabelagola, from the statue itself to the quieter carved temples below.
Medium crowdEntry Free
Bhandari Basadi
- Best timeMidday, when the town is quiet and the hill climbs are too hot; late afternoon for softer light on the front of the temple.
- ColorsCreamSaffronMaroon
Medium crowdEntry Free
Chandragiri Hill
- Best timeLate afternoon, when soft light falls on the stone basadis and Vindhyagiri is clear across the pond.
- ColorsCreamSaffronOchre
Low crowdEntry Free
Chandragupta Basadi
- Best timeLate afternoon, when side light brings out the detail in the carved screens and the hilltop is quiet.
- ColorsCreamOchreSaffron
High crowdEntry Free (footwear/help extra)
Gomateshwara Statue
- Best timeEarly morning, when the light is soft on the pale granite and the courtyard is still quiet.
- ColorsSaffronWhiteCream
High crowdEntry Free
Vindhyagiri Hill
- Best timeEarly morning, for soft light over the town and pond and cool steps; late afternoon for warm light before the hill closes.
- ColorsSaffronWhiteRust
Why Shravanabelagola Is Great for Photography
Few places in India let you photograph a 1,000-year-old monolith up close. On Vindhyagiri you stand in the courtyard at the feet of the Bahubali statue, and on the way up the steps give you wide views of the town, the pond and Chandragiri opposite.
Chandragiri is the quieter hill. Its basadis sit close together inside a walled enclosure, with carved stone screens, old inscriptions and a clear view back to Vindhyagiri. Down in the town, Bhandari Basadi adds a long pillared hall lined with Tirthankara idols.
Photography Tips for Shravanabelagola
- Climb at opening time: The light is soft, the steps are cool and the courtyard around the statue is much quieter before the tour buses arrive.
- Shoot the view on the way up: The best frames of the pond and the town come from the upper steps of Vindhyagiri, not only from the top.
- Use Chandragiri for the statue from afar: Late afternoon from Chandragiri gives you the whole of Vindhyagiri with the statue on top.
- Keep your hands free: You climb barefoot on steep steps, so carry your phone or camera in a small bag or on a strap.
- Be respectful inside basadis: Do not photograph people at prayer, and ask before taking photos inside a working shrine.
- Leave the tripod behind: It is awkward on the steps and may not be allowed on the hilltops.
Best Time for Photography in Shravanabelagola
October to February gives clear skies and pleasant mornings for the climbs. After the monsoon, from late September, the fields around the town turn green, which makes the view from the top more colourful. In March to May the haze and heat build up quickly, so shoot early.
The hills usually close in the early evening, so plan sunset-light photos for the last hour before closing rather than after dark.
Questions
Shravanabelagola — FAQ
What are the best photo spots in Shravanabelagola?
The best photo spots are the Gomateshwara statue on Vindhyagiri, the view from Vindhyagiri's upper steps, Chandragiri hill, Chandragupta Basadi and Bhandari Basadi. Together they cover the statue, the hilltop views and carved Jain temples.
Can I take photos of the Gomateshwara statue?
Yes, visitors usually photograph the statue from the courtyard on top of Vindhyagiri. Be quiet and respectful, as pilgrims pray at the statue's feet, and follow any instructions from the temple staff.
Where can I photograph the whole of Vindhyagiri hill?
Chandragiri, the smaller hill opposite, gives the best view of the whole of Vindhyagiri with the statue on top. The pond at the foot of the hills is another good spot for a wide shot.
What is the best time of day for photos in Shravanabelagola?
Early morning is best for Vindhyagiri, when the light is soft and the steps are cool. Late afternoon is best for Chandragiri and for views of the statue from across the pond.
Is Shravanabelagola good for Instagram photos?
Yes. The giant statue, the long line of rock-cut steps up the bare granite and the stone basadis on Chandragiri make strong, simple backdrops, especially in morning light.