A Divine Detour on the Bangalore–Sakleshpur Highway
Shravanabelagola
A Divine Detour on the Bangalore–Sakleshpur Highway
Nestled in the heart of Hassan district, Shravanabelagola is one of the most significant Jain pilgrimage sites in the world. Famed for the majestic Gommateshwara Bahubali statue, this holy town is a serene blend of spiritual energy, ancient architecture, and natural beauty.
If you’re planning a road trip from Bangalore to Sakleshpur, Shravanabelagola makes for a must-visit stop, just 145 km from Bangalore and 85 km before Sakleshpur, making it an ideal detour to soak in centuries of history and divinity.
Highlights of Shravanabelagola
🗿 Gommateshwara Bahubali Statue (Vindyagiri Hill):
Towering at 57 feet, this monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali is one of the tallest free-standing statues in the world. It symbolizes peace, renunciation, and self-realization, standing atop Vindyagiri Hill, accessible via a steep flight of 600+ stone steps.🏯 Chandragiri Hill:
Adjacent to Vindyagiri is Chandragiri, home to ancient shrines and memorials. It’s believed that Chandragupta Maurya, guided by Jain monk Bhadrabahu, spent his final years here in meditation. The temple complex on this hill was built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century B.C., making it one of the oldest surviving Jain sites.💧 Sacred Ponds:
The word “Belagola” means “white pond” in Kannada, referring to the serene, crystal-clear lake nestled between the hills that adds to the tranquil environment — a perfect retreat for spiritual seekers and meditators.
Shravanabelagola Gommateshwara statue
Lord Bahubali monolithic statue Karnataka
Mahamastakabhisheka – The Grand Jain Festival (Every 12 Years)
Every 12 years, Shravanabelagola hosts the Mahamastakabhisheka, a once-in-a-generation ceremonial bathing of Lord Bahubali’s statue. Devotees from across the world gather to witness this divine spectacle where the statue is anointed with:
Milk
Saffron
Turmeric
Sandalwood
108 Kalashas of holy water and herbs
The most recent celebration was in 2018, and the next is scheduled for 2030. The event attracts millions of pilgrims, Jain monks, saints, and dignitaries — and transforms the small town into a vibrant spiritual hub.
How to Reach Shravanabelagola
From Bangalore (Approx. 145 km / 3.5 hrs):
Route: Bangalore → Nelamangala → Kunigal → Channarayapatna → Shravanabelagola
Ideal for a half-day stop while heading toward Hassan or Sakleshpur.From Sakleshpur (Approx. 85 km / 2 hrs):
Route: Sakleshpur → Hassan → Channarayapatna → Shravanabelagola
You can cover this on the return trip to Bangalore or as part of a Hassan exploration.Nearest Railway Station: Shravanabelagola Railway Station (on the Bangalore–Mangalore line)
Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore
Where to Stay
Limited local guesthouses available near Shravanabelagola
For better amenities, stay in Hassan (45 km) or Sakleshpur (85 km)
Farmer’s Son Resort & Adventure Camp is a scenic nature stay option near Sakleshpur if you plan to continue your journey into the Western Ghats
Why Visit Shravanabelagola?
Rich Jain heritage and historical significance
Witness the grandeur of ancient monolithic architecture
Experience peaceful trekking and hilltop views
A spiritual recharge in a place known as ‘Tapobhumi’
Perfect for a spiritual and cultural detour on your way to Western Ghats getaways
Comments
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budget friendly place to stay in sakleshpur and many tourists place in around sakleshpur
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ranjitha
June 4, 2021sakleshpur nearest to all surrounding district and its next to madkeri chikamgalore dakshin kannada mangalore mysore tumkur mandya bangalore so best place all round the year to visit with national highway only 2 hours travel from all this places