Temples in Shravanabelagola
Shravanabelagola is one of the most important Jain pilgrimage centres in India. Its temples are called basadis, and they are spread across the two hills and the town between them. The best known is the Gomateshwara (Bahubali) statue on Vindhyagiri, but Chandragiri and the town have some of the oldest and finest basadis in Karnataka.
These are active places of worship. Visitors of all faiths are welcome, but you climb barefoot, dress modestly and keep quiet around pilgrims at prayer.
Famous Temples in Shravanabelagola
Gomateshwara (Bahubali) stands on top of Vindhyagiri. The 17-metre statue of Bahubali was carved from a single rock around the late 10th century under Chavundaraya, a minister of the Western Ganga kings. It shows Bahubali standing in deep meditation, with vines growing up his legs. You reach it by around 600 rock-cut steps.
Bhandari Basadi is the largest temple in the town, built in 1159 CE by Hulla, the treasurer (bhandari) of the Hoysala king Narasimha I. Its long hall holds a row of idols of all 24 Tirthankaras, and it needs no climb.
Chandragupta Basadi is a small, old basadi on Chandragiri, known for its carved stone screens that tell the story of Bhadrabahu and Chandragupta Maurya.
Chavundaraya Basadi, also on Chandragiri, is one of the larger temples on the hill and is linked to Chavundaraya, the minister behind the Gomateshwara statue.
Tips for Visiting Temples in Shravanabelagola
- Leave your shoes at the footwear stand at the base and climb barefoot or in socks.
- Start Vindhyagiri at opening time, before the rock gets hot.
- Wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
- Avoid carrying leather belts, wallets or bags into the basadis where possible.
- Do not eat or carry food on the hills or inside the basadis.
- Carry water, but keep it in a bag while you are in the temple areas.
- Keep your voice low and do not photograph people at prayer.
- The climbs are steep. Palanquins carried by porters are usually available at Vindhyagiri for those who cannot walk up.
Questions
Shravanabelagola — FAQ
What are the main Jain temples in Shravanabelagola?
The main temples are the Gomateshwara statue on Vindhyagiri, Bhandari Basadi in the town, and Chandragupta Basadi and Chavundaraya Basadi on Chandragiri.
Can non-Jains visit the basadis in Shravanabelagola?
Yes. Visitors of all faiths are welcome at the Gomateshwara statue and the basadis. Dress modestly, remove your shoes and respect pilgrims at prayer.
What is a basadi?
A basadi is a Jain temple. The word is used across Karnataka, and Shravanabelagola has dozens of them on its two hills and in the town.
Is there help for elderly visitors at Vindhyagiri?
Yes. Palanquins carried by porters are usually available at the base of Vindhyagiri for visitors who cannot manage the steps. Agree on the details before you start.