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New Delhi: Murudeshwar Temple in Karnataka is a dramatic coastal shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, set right along the shores of the Arabian Sea. Its claim to fame is the 123-foot Shiva statue, making it the 2nd tallest Shiva statue in the world. The temple complex has a 21-storey Raja Gopuram with a lift to the top for panoramic views and an artificial cave that visualises mythological stories to the deity.

Visitors are drawn by its mythological roots, oceanfront ambience and unique architecture that blends the old and new. The temple remains open to all with free entry and a dress code that encourages modest attire. Daily timings are from 6 am to 12 pm and 3 pm to 8:15 pm, making it convenient for those travelling from nearby coastal towns and cities. If you want to visit this divine site, here is the complete guide to Murudeshwar Temple.

Everything you need to know about Murudeshwar Temple

1. Location of Murudeshwar Temple

Murudeshwar is located in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, facing the Arabian Sea. The coastal position adds to the experience, especially during sunrise and sunset.

2. How to reach Murudeshwar Temple

• By air: Mangalore International Airport (about 134 km away) is the nearest option. Taxis and cabs are easily available from the airport.
• By road: Frequent buses connect Murudeshwar to Bengaluru, Mysuru, Udupi and other major towns. Well-connected highways make road trips smooth and scenic.
• By rail: Murudeshwar Junction links the town to multiple cities across India with daily trains. It is the most convenient mode for many travellers.

3. History and legends of Murudeshwar Temple

The history of the Murudeshwar Temple is deeply connected with the epic Ramayana. According to legend, the demon king Ravana performed intense penance to please Lord Shiva and received the powerful Atma Linga, a divine form of Shiva believed to grant immortality to the one who worshipped it with utmost devotion. Shiva agreed but warned Ravana that the Atma Linga must never be placed on the ground until it reached its final destination.

On his way back, the gods feared the growing powers Ravana would gain. Lord Ganesha appeared before him as a young Brahmin boy. As Ravana was preparing for his evening prayers, he asked the boy to briefly hold the Atma Linga. Ganesha agreed but said he could hold it only until he called Ravana three times. As Ravana prayed, Ganesha called out thrice and placed the Atma Linga on the ground, where it became firmly rooted. Realising the trick, Ravana tried to pull it out with all his might, but only succeeded in breaking off fragments of the Linga, which scattered to nearby places like Gokarna. The main Linga, however, remained fixed at Murudeshwar.

The original shrine here is believed to date back to the third millennium BC, making Murudeshwar a site of ancient worship. Another associated legend tells of Maharishi Markandeya, who defeated Yama, the god of death, through his devotion to Shiva. Pleased with his unwavering faith, Shiva granted the sage immortality, further enhancing the temple’s spiritual importance.

Most parts of the temple visible today, including the majestic Gopuram and structures around the hill, belong to the modern 20th-century development, while the massive Shiva statue was added later, transforming Murudeshwar into one of the most iconic Shiva pilgrimages in India.

4. Places to explore in Murudeshwar

• Rajagopuram: This 21-storey Gopuram with an elevator offers a stunning aerial view of the Shiva statue and coastline.
• Statue Park: Landscaped gardens and sculptures sit behind the statue, creating ideal photography spots.
• Murudeshwar Beach: A calm beach where travellers can relax, play water sports or enjoy local snacks.
• Murudeshwar Fort: Located behind the complex, it adds a slice of history to the tour.
• Kethapayya Narayan Temple: A nearby ancient shrine known for its traditional style.

5. Nearby places to explore

• Kollur Mookambika Temple: A well-known Shakti Peeth on the Souparnika River.
• Maravanthe Beach: A scenic beach with the river on one side and the sea on the other.
• Jog Falls: One of India’s highest plunge waterfalls, great for a day trip.
• Netrani Island: Famous for scuba diving and vibrant coral reefs.
• Idagunji Ganapati Temple: A revered Ganesha temple visited by thousands.
• Udupi: A pilgrimage and food paradise known for the Sri Krishna Temple.

6. Where to stay in Murudeshwar

• Blue Pearl Beach Guest House
• RNS Residency
• Murudeshwar Beach Residency
• Pushkar Cottages Murdeshwar
• Amani Beach Home Stay
• The Ocean Front
• Aryana Guest House
• Coastal Pearl Homestay

Murudeshwar Temple is that rare destination where mythology, architectural marvels and the sea come together beautifully. It offers peaceful worship, visual grandeur and a memorable travel experience for both spiritual seekers and coastal explorers.