About Gommateshwara Statue, Shravanabelagola
On top of Vindhyagiri Hill stands Gommateshwara, a 17 meter statue of Bahubali carved from a single block of granite around 983 CE. Bahubali, son of the first Tirthankara, is shown meditating so long in a standing posture that vines have grown up his limbs. The serene figure is one of the largest free standing monoliths in the world.
Shravanabelagola has been a Jain center since the third century BCE, when tradition says Chandragupta Maurya came here as a monk with his teacher Bhadrabahu. Roughly every twelve years the Mahamastakabhisheka ceremony bathes the statue in milk, saffron and flowers poured from scaffolding. Visitors climb about 600 rock cut steps barefoot.
What to see
- Monolithic statue of Bahubali
- Rock cut stairway on Vindhyagiri
- Chandragiri Hill temples and inscriptions
- Bhandari Basadi in the town
- Mahamastakabhisheka ritual bath
Visiting Gommateshwara Statue, Shravanabelagola: practical guide
- Best time
- October to March
- Hours
- Usually 6:30 am to 6:30 pm with a midday break
- Entry
- Free
- Dress code
- Modest clothing; climb barefoot; wear socks in heat
- Nearest airport
- Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (BLR), 170 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Climb early to avoid hot rock
- Combine with Belur and Halebidu temples
- Check dates of the next Mahamastakabhisheka
Festivals and special days
- Mahamastakabhisheka
- Mahavir Jayanti
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Jainism tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Remove all leather items, including belts, shoes and wallets, before entering temples.
- Do not bring food into temple grounds.
- Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered.
- Some temples ask menstruating women not to enter; follow posted guidance.
- Avoid photographing images in sanctums where it is prohibited.
- Do not touch monks or nuns or offer them food without guidance.
Location map
Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions
Frequently asked questions
Where is Gommateshwara Statue, Shravanabelagola?
Gommateshwara Statue, Shravanabelagola is in Shravanabelagola, Karnataka, India, Asia. GPS coordinates: 12.8540, 76.4844. The nearest airport is Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (BLR), 170 km.
What is the best time to visit Gommateshwara Statue, Shravanabelagola?
October to March
Is there an entry fee for Gommateshwara Statue, Shravanabelagola?
Free Opening hours: Usually 6:30 am to 6:30 pm with a midday break
What should I wear when visiting Gommateshwara Statue, Shravanabelagola?
Modest clothing; climb barefoot; wear socks in heat
Which religion is Gommateshwara Statue, Shravanabelagola sacred to?
Gommateshwara Statue, Shravanabelagola is sacred to Jainism. Active place of worship.
