Shravanabelagola Temple

Shravanabelagola Temple

Shravanabelagola Temple, one of the main Jain pilgrim centers, is located in the midst of the Vindhyagiri and Chandragiri hills. It is named after the tank in the middle of the town called ‘Belagola’.

Sri Gomateshvara

The monolithic sculpture of Sri Gomateshwara is about 57 feet hight, making it the highest monolithic sculpture in the world.

Rock cut steps on the Vindhyagiri hills leading to Sri Gomateshwara

The statue was installed by Ganga King Rachamalla Sathyavakya in 988 AD.

Sri Gomateshvara

Bahubali was the first son of king Vrishabhadeva, who later became the first Tirthankar (Adinath).

Sri Gomateshvara

The Mahamasthakabhisheka (anointing ceremony) takes place every 12 years attracting hordes of pilgrims to Shravanagelagola.

View of the Chandragiri hills from the top

Chandranatha Basti

This Jain Basti is known for it’s exquisite sculptures and frescos.

Central Courtyard

Sculptures on the side walls

Fresco

Fresco

Chandragiri Hill

Chandragiri is a small hill opposite the Vindhyagiri. A set of rock cut steps take you up to the Temple Complex.

Who needs snow when you have bums made of steel

The walled temple complex has numerous Jain temples and monasteries.

Outside the temple complex

It is said that Chandragupta Maurya, and his guru Bhadrabahu came here from North India and participated in Sallekhana (death by fasting).

Inside the temple complex

View from the top of the hill