Murudeshwara Temple

Murudeshwara Temple, Murudeshwar,
Karnataka temple of Lord Shiva

Murudeshwara temple is located in Bhatkal District of Karnataka State, South India. It is one of the most popular temples and most visited temples of Karnataka.

This temple is built on the Kanduka Hill which is surrounded on three sides by the waters of the Arabian Sea. This holy and picturesque place is situated between Honnavara and Bhatkal. The temple is dedicated to the Lord Shiva who is here known as Murudeshwara.

According to legends, the Pranalinga of Mahabaleshwara that was thrown by Ravana, the mighty demon-king and devout worshipper of Lord Shiva, is enshrined here.

Main Attractions of Murudeshwar Temple

The idol of Lord Shiva erected beside the temple,built recently, and is said to be the largest idol of Shiva in the world. This huge idol towers 123 feet into the sky and is viewable from a very long distance.

Two life-size elephants in concrete stand guard at the steps leading to the temple.
The Raja Gopura, with a height of 249 feet, is considered the tallest gopura in the world.
As one ascends the hillock, there is a shrine of Jattiga seated on a horse.
There is a massive Fort behind the temple, which is said to be renovated by the mighty warrior prince Tipu Sultan.
Murudeshwara Beach One can relax on the pristine sands of the beach, or swimming or enjoy the water sports. Boating facilities are also available.Beach resorts are available.

Bounded by the shimmering sea and rolling hills, the place is a favourite picnic spot. WIth the roaring sea to the west, the towering hills to the east and the coconut and areca groves nearby, the temple attracts a lot of devotees and tourists as well.

Reaching There

By Air

Nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, 165 km away. Hubli and Panaji airports are other alternatives.

By Rail

Murudeshwara station lies on the Konkan Railway. Some trains from Mumbai and Mangalore stop here. Check out this page. It is submitted by one of our visitors. He has written and given a better direction about how to reach there. Murudeshwar temple - how to reach there

By Bus

Bus facilities are available from Mangalore, Udupi, Kundapur, and Byndoor.

From Mumbai and Mangalore, one can take the NH-17 to reach Murudeshwara.

From Bangalore one can take the NH-206 to reach Honnavar and then take NH-17 to reach Murudeshwara.

Return from Murudeshwara temple to Karnataka

Return from Murudeshwara to Mangalore