Sights

Explore Shravanbelagola

Shravanabelagola is a town located in the Hassan district of Karnataka, India. It is one of the most significant pilgrimage sites for Jains, known for its historical, religious, and cultural importance. The town is famous for the Statue of Gommateshwara (Bahubali), which stands as one of the largest monolithic statues in the world.

Places You'll See

Tour Highlights

Tour Itinerary

Shravanbelagola

5 Days 6 Nights
Karnataka: Shravanbelagola

Days Plan

Day 1: Arrival and Introduction to Shravanabelagola

Morning

  • Arrival at Shravanabelagola: Arrive by train, bus, or taxi. If you’re coming from Bangalore or Mangalore, the travel time is approximately 3–4 hours.
  • Check-in at Accommodation: There are several guesthouses, budget hotels, and resorts around Shravanabelagola.
  • Visit the Town Market: Take a stroll through the town to get a feel of the place and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Visit the local shops selling Jain artifacts and souvenirs.

Day 2: Exploration of Shravanabelagola and Nearby Attractions

Morning

  • Chandragiri Hill:
    • Start your day with a visit to Chandragiri Hill.
    • This hill has Jain temples dedicated to various Tirthankaras, and it is also known for the ruins of Chandragupta Maurya's monastery.
    • Take a short walk around the area and explore the Mauryan inscriptions and temple ruins.
    • If you wish, you can climb a few steps to reach the Chandragiri Hilltop, which also offers a great view of the town.

Afternoon

  • Visit Local Jain Temples: Explore the local Jain temples in Shravanabelagola, such as the Parshwanatha Temple and Adinatha Temple.
    • These temples are smaller but feature intricate architecture and carvings, providing insight into Jain culture and rituals.
  • Lunch: Try local Jain cuisine, including sattvic meals, in the town’s eateries. Many restaurants around Shravanabelagola serve traditional South Indian vegetarian food.

Evening

  • Relax by the Lake: Shravanabelagola has a serene lake (called Kalyani). Spend your evening by the lake, enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings.

Day 3: Day Trip to Hassan and Exploring Historical Sites

Morning

  • Visit Hassan (50 km from Shravanabelagola):
    • Leave early and take a half-day trip to Hassan, known for its historical temples and Hoysala architecture.
    • Visit the Chennakesava Temple in Belur and the Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu. These temples are masterpieces of Hoysala architecture, famous for their intricate carvings and detailed sculptures.
    • Belur is around 30 km from Hassan, and Halebidu is about 40 km from Hassan.

Afternoon

  • Lunch in Hassan: Have lunch in one of the local restaurants in Hassan. Many options serve traditional Karnataka cuisine.
  • Explore Local Heritage: After visiting the temples, explore some of Hassan’s cultural and historical attractions, such as the Hassan Museum or the Lakshmi Narayana Temple.

Evening

  • Return to Shravanabelagola: Head back to Shravanabelagola in the evening. Rest for the night, or take a peaceful stroll around the town.

Day 4: Nature, Wildlife, and Local Experiences

Morning

  • Maleyuru Bird Sanctuary (Approx. 20 km from Shravanabelagola):
    • Start your day with a visit to the Maleyuru Bird Sanctuary, located in a serene area near Shravanabelagola.
    • It is home to several species of birds, and if you are a nature lover, you can spend some time birdwatching.
    • The sanctuary is particularly popular during the monsoon season for migratory birds.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Brahmadeva Temple:
    • Head to the Brahmadeva Temple at the base of Vindhyagiri Hill, dedicated to Lord Brahma.
    • The temple is smaller but offers a peaceful experience away from the crowds.

Evening

  • Kalyani Lake:
    • Enjoy a leisure evening by Kalyani Lake, a tranquil spot where you can relax and enjoy the surroundings.
    • Alternatively, you can explore the local markets and purchase Jain artifacts and souvenirs from Shravanabelagola.

Day 5: Reflection and Departure

Morning

  • Sunrise Visit to Gommateshwara Statue:
    • For a reflective and peaceful experience, visit the Gommateshwara Statue early in the morning when the crowd is minimal.
    • Watch the sunrise from Vindhyagiri Hill, an awe-inspiring sight.

Late Morning

  • Explore More Jain Temples: If time permits, you can explore other local temples or visit Chandragiri Hill one last time for its serene atmosphere.

Afternoon

  • Shopping and Souvenir Hunting: Visit the local markets and purchase mementos such as stone carvings, Jain statues, and spiritual texts.
  • Lunch: Enjoy your last meal in Shravanabelagola at a local restaurant, savoring Karnataka’s vegetarian cuisine.

Evening

  • Departure: Depending on your travel plans, you can head back to your destination by road, train, or air.
Notes:

    • 2 passport size photos
    • Adult – Original + photocopy of any of the ID proof i.e. Aadhar Card / Driving Licence /  Voters       ID / Passport
    • Child – Original + photocopy of any of the ID proof i.e. Aadhar Card / School ID / Passport
    • Infant – Aadhar Card / Birth certificate
    • NRI / Foreign nationals – Mandatory Passport + Valid Indian visa / OCI card / PIO card
    • Above mentioned ID proof is mandatory at the time of booking and carry the same ID proof on         tour as well

Shravanbelagola

Tour Details


Hear from Our
Happy Travelers

Visiting Shravanabelagola was nothing short of a spiritual awakening. Standing before the massive Gommateshwara Statue, I felt a sense of peace and reverence that I had never experienced before. The climb to Vindhyagiri Hill was a beautiful journey, offering not just physical exercise but also an opportunity for introspection. I highly recommend this place for anyone seeking spiritual connection

– Priya S., Bangalore

The Gommateshwara Statue left me awestruck. The sheer scale of the statue and its serene expression were truly mesmerizing. I was deeply moved by the history behind it and the incredible Jain traditions it represents. Shravanabelagola is not just a place, but an experience that stays with you long after you've left.

– Vikram T., Chennai

The historical significance of Shravanabelagola is immense. From the inscriptions on the hills to the temples that date back centuries, every corner of this place tells a story. The visit to Chandragiri Hill, with its ancient ruins and the story of Chandragupta Maurya, made me feel like I was stepping back in time. It’s a perfect blend of history and spirituality

– Anjali R., Delhi

Best Time to Visit:

  • October to March is the best time to visit Shravanabelagola as the weather is pleasant, and you can comfortably explore the hills and temples.
  • The Mahamasthakabhisheka festival, held once every 12 years, is a major event attracting thousands of visitors, making it a unique experience if your visit coincides with this festival.

How to Reach:

  • By Air:

    • The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (about 140 km away). From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Shravanabelagola.
    • Alternatively, Bengaluru International Airport (about 150 km away) also serves as a major gateway.

    By Train:

    • Shravanabelagola Railway Station is well-connected by rail to major cities like Bangalore, Mysore, and Mangalore.
    • The station is about 3 km from the town center.

    By Road:

    • From Bengaluru: Shravanabelagola is about 150 km (3-4 hours) from Bangalore, via NH 75.
    • From Hassan: The town is about 50 km from Hassan, which is well-connected to major cities in Karnataka.
    • You can take buses, taxis, or rent a car from nearby cities.

Importance of Shravanabelagola :

Shravanabelagola holds a place of immense religious, historical, and cultural significance in India. Its legacy is rooted in Jainism, and it has been an important pilgrimage site for over two millennia. Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects of its importance:The statue is of Lord Bahubali, a Jain Tirthankara, who is deeply venerated in Jainism for his spiritual achievements, including attaining Kevala Jnana (omniscience)