What's So Special?

If witnessing the world’s largest idol of Lord Shiva intrigues you, consider a visit to Murudeshwar. Here, you can marvel at the magnificent colossal idol and the tallest Raja Gopura in India. The temple site offers breathtaking scenery and a tranquil ambiance.

Legend:

Murudeshwar’s dates back to the Ramayana era. During the epic war, Ravana, the story's antagonist and a fervent devotee of Lord Shiva, sought immortality through rigorous penance. Pleased by Ravana’s unmatched devotion, Lord Shiva bestowed upon him the Atma Linga, under the condition it never touch the ground until he reached Sri Lanka. Intervening, Lord Vishnu schemed to make Ravana relinquish his boon by disguising the day as dusk with his chakra. Mistaking it for sunset, Ravana entrusted the Atma Linga to a Brahmin boy – Lord Ganesha in disguise – until he completed his evening rites. However, Ganesha promptly placed the linga on the ground, disappearing soon after. Enraged and deceived, Ravana attempted to destroy the linga. Unable to do so, he removed its exterior and hurled it to Kanduka Hill, where the Murudeshwar temple now stands.

Peculiarities:

Enclosed on three sides by the Arabian Sea, the 249-feet Raja Gopura is an architectural marvel. The sitting statue of Lord Shiva, flanked by life-sized elephants, gives the temple a majestic aura. Equipped with modern amenities, the temple includes lift facilities within the Raja Gopura for enhanced views.

Specialty:

Murudeshwar is home to the hollow Linga, symbolizing Shiva’s soul, a unique feature among Lord Shiva temples which typically feature solid, rock-hard structures.

Over 200 artists collaborated to create the mammoth effigy.

Formerly known as “Mrideshwara.”

The 18-storeyed Raja Gopuram, the “King of Towers,” offers a spectacular bird’s-eye view of the town (accessible by both steps and elevators).

Ideal for parasailing, speed boating, and snorkeling.

A short boat ride away, Netrani Island (or Pigeon Island) is perfect for scuba diving, offering sightings of parrotfish and butterflyfish.

A historic fort, renovated by Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan stands nearby, originally built during the Vijayanagar Empire.

Philanthropist and entrepreneur R.N. Shetty funded the temple, originally built by Kashinath.

Temple and Pooja Timings:

General: 3:00 AM – 1:00 PM; 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Morning Darshan: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Evening Darshan: 3:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Morning Pooja: 6:30 AM – 7:30 AM

Maha Pooja: 12:15 PM – 1:00 PM

Night Pooja: 7:15 PM – 8:15 PM

Entry: Free

Temple Festivals:

Mahashivaratri: Celebrated before the onset of spring, this festival venerates Lord Shiva as a source of positivity and spiritual renewal, and as the mediator of a historic celestial conflict. It is regarded as an auspicious time for women to seek blessings for a virtuous spouse.

Karthik Purnima: Commemorating the defeat of the demon trio, Tripura, and celebrating the birth of Lord Karthikeyan, this festival takes place in the Karthikai month (November – December).

Dress Code:

Visitors are advised to wear respectful attire.

Nearby Temples:

Sri Mahabaleshwar Temple, Gokarna (54 km)

Kollur Mookambika Temple (60 km)

Idagunji Maha Ganapathi Temple (20 km)

Best Time to Visit:

October to May is the ideal period, with a peak pilgrimage during the Mahashivaratri festival in February. For scuba diving enthusiasts, the best months are November to January.

Access:

By Air: Mangalore Airport, 165 km away.

By Rail: Murudeshwar Station; connected to major cities by the Karwar Express.

By Road: Well-connected to major Karnataka cities.

FAQ:

What makes Murudeshwar a unique travel destination?

Murudeshwar is renowned for the world's largest idol of Lord Shiva and the tallest Raja Gopura in India, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and a tranquil ambiance. The site also offers parasailing, speed boating, and snorkeling.

What is the legend behind Murudeshwar?

The legend dates back to the Ramayana era, involving Ravana, Lord Shiva, and Lord Ganesha. Ravana, seeking immortality, was tricked by Lord Vishnu and Lord Ganesha, leading to the establishment of the Atma Linga at Murudeshwar.

What are the temple timings and major festivals celebrated at Murudeshwar?

The temple is open from 3:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Major festivals include Mahashivaratri and Karthik Purnima, celebrated with great devotion and fanfare.

How can I reach Murudeshwar?

Murudeshwar is accessible by air via Mangalore Airport (165 km away), by rail through Murudeshwar Station, and by road with connections to major Karnataka cities.

What are some nearby attractions and temples to visit around Murudeshwar?

Nearby attractions include Sri Mahabaleshwar Temple in Gokarna (54 km), Kollur Mookambika Temple (60 km), and Idagunji Maha Ganapathi Temple (20 km), each offering unique spiritual and cultural experiences.