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Karkala Bahubali Statue–Travel Guide, History & Best Time to Visit

Home AttractionsKarkala Bahubali Statue

Karkala Bahubali Statue

Karkala, Karnataka 574104

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Looking for a historic spiritual landmark and one of the most impressive monolithic statues in Karnataka? The Karkala Bahubali Statue is one of the most iconic attractions in the Udupi district.

Opening Hours9:00AM - 7:00PM

Entry FeeFree

Visit Duration1 - 2 Hours

Family Friendly

Yes

Wheelchair Accessible

Parking Available

Yes

Restroom Available

Food Available

Highlights

1. Admire the Majestic Bahubali Monolithic Statue
The centerpiece of Karkala is the towering Karkala Bahubali Statue, also known as the Gommateshwara statue.
Installed in 1432 AD by King Veera Pandya Bhairarasa Wodeyar, the statue stands 42 feet tall and is carved from a single granite rock. The sculpture depicts Lord Bahubali in a calm standing posture symbolizing meditation, sacrifice, and spiritual enlightenment.
Key features of the statue include:
A peaceful facial expression
Vines carved around the legs representing long meditation
Intricate craftsmanship typical of Jain art
The monument is one of the most significant Jain statues in India.
2. Climb Vindhyagiri Hill for Panoramic Views
The statue is located atop Vindhyagiri Hill, Karkala, and visitors can reach the top by climbing a set of stone steps.
Once you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with:
Stunning views of Karkala town
Green landscapes and distant hills
Excellent photography opportunities
The climb is relatively short and manageable for most visitors, making it suitable for families and students as well.
3. Witness the Grand Mahamastakabhisheka Festival
One of the most spectacular events associated with the statue is the Mahamastakabhisheka, a major Jain religious ceremony held once every 12 years.
During this festival:
The statue is ceremonially anointed with milk, saffron, sandalwood paste, and flowers.
Thousands of devotees and tourists gather to witness the ritual.
The town of Karkala becomes a vibrant center of spiritual celebrations.
This festival is one of the most important Jain religious events in the region.
4. Explore Historic Jain Temple in Karkala
Apart from the Bahubali statue, Karkala is known for its rich Jain heritage and ancient temples.
Visitors can explore nearby temples such as
Chaturmukha Basadi–A unique four-faced Jain temple built entirely from granite
Guru Basadi–One of the oldest Jain temples in the town
Anekere Basadi–Located beside a scenic temple pond
Together, these temples make Karkala an important center of Jain culture and history in Karnataka.

Best Time to VisitJune – September

Recommended Duration1 - 2 Hours

Difficulty Leveleasy

Famous For

Not specified.

About Karkala Bahubali Statue

Karkala Bahubali Statue is Standing majestically on Vindhyagiri Hill, Karkala, this 42-foot monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali is a remarkable symbol of Jain philosophy, peace, and renunciation. Carved from a single block of granite in the 15th century, the statue attracts pilgrims, history lovers, photographers, and travelers exploring spiritual places in coastal Karnataka. Surrounded by lush greenery and panoramic views of Karkala town, the Bahubali statue offers not just religious significance but also a memorable sightseeing experience for visitors of all ages.

Karkala Bahubali StatueKarkala, Karnataka 574104View on Map