Murudeshwar is a small coastal town in Karnataka that is popular for a variety of reasons. Murudeshwar is home to second largest statue of Lord Shiva in India. The beautiful and colorful statue of Lord Shiva is about 123 feet tall and is located on a small hill top right next to Arabian Sea.
The hill on which the statue is located has a nice well-paved pathway that goes around the statue. There are several architectures throughout this path that has some religious significance. Going around this pathway, watching the spectacular art work, and feeling the breeze of the Arabian Sea is an experience in itself. At some places along the pathway, you can feel the high current winds pushing you away, and you try hard to retain your balance and walk further.
Lord Krishna and Arjuna on a chariot
Sun God
Saint Vyas reciting Mahabharata to Lord Ganesha
Ravana handing over Atmalinga to Lord Ganesha (in disguise). The story of Gokarna in statues!
Murudeshwar also has a temple that is dedicated to Lord Shiva, very next to the hill that has the statue. A 20 floor gopura has been built at Murudeshwar temple. This gopura is supposed to be the second largest in India. The gopura also has a lift which provides breathtaking view of Murudeshwar. Visitors can pay a nominal amount and go to the “Murudeshwar View” floor. With the statue of Lord Shiva on one side, Murudeshwar town on the other, and Arabian Sea on the remaining sides, you will be spellbound by the views from this floor.
The twenty floor Gopura (Second tallest in India)
Murudeshwar Beach
Murudeshwar is a small town and yet it has many places to explore. Walk around the statue, amazing views from the top of gopura, or a gentle stroll on the beach will leave you with a rejuvenated mind. For the adventurist side of you, Murudeshwar also offers many water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, Jet Ski ride and so on. Scuba diving near the Netrani Island close-by is quite popular, and perhaps the only place in Karnataka where you can go for scuba diving.
Get ready to go to Netrani Island!
Picturesque Murudeshwar
The town of Murudeshwar looks even more picturesque at night when the lights illuminate the statue and the buildings around. A dinner on the floating restaurant overlooking the statue on one side, and the cool breeze of Arabian Sea on the other is something that will stay on your memory for a long time!
Location
Where to stay?
- Murudeshwar
Distance Chart
| From | Distance (in km) |
| Gokarna | 80 |
| Mangalore | 156 |
| Panjim, Goa | 225 |
| Dharwad | 231 |
| Bangalore | 515 |