Shravanabelagola (Kannada: ಶ್ರವಣಬೆಳಗೊಳ) is a city located in the Hassan district, in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is one of the most important Jain pilgrim centers. In Kannada language, "Bel" means white and "kola", the pond, an allusion to the beautiful pond in the middle of the town. It reached a high point in architectural and sculptural activity under the patronage of Gangas of Talakad.

Attractions in Shravanabelagola:

Gomateswara (Lord Bahubali)

The statue of Gomateswara is on top of the Vindhyagiri Hill (also called Indragiri Hill). This statue can be seen from 24km away.The statue was completed in 981 by the Ganga king Chavundaraya and named “Gommata,” the handsome one. It represents Bahubali, the son of the first tirthankara, King Rishabdeva of Ayodhya (also known as Adinath).

Mahamastakabhisheka

Every twelve years, thousands of people come here for the Maha-mastak-abhi­sheka, when the 1,800-year-old statue is bathed with precious stones, milk, ghee, yogurt, saffron, and gold coins.

Other Temples in Shravanabelagola:

There are many other Jain shrines on the way up Indragiri Hill. In the town at the bottom of the hill is the Bhandari Basti (1159), with images of the twenty-four tirthankaras.

At the end of the street there is a math (monastery) with a library containing rare palm-leaf manuscripts. Next door, there are 10th century bronze statues of the tirthankaras and murals depicting the life of Parswanath.

There are also Jain temples on the top of the nearby Chandragiri Hill. The Chandragupta Temple (12th century) has nice carvings depicting the story of Chandragupta and his guru, Bhadrabahu. It is said that Chandragupta, the Maurya emperor, starved himself to death on this hill around 300 BC. There are also intricately carved pillars and a 24m high pillar. Also on the hill is the Chamundaraya Temple, dedicated to Parswanath.

First among India's 7 Wonders:

On August 5, 2007, the magnificent statue of Shravanbelagola was voted by Indians as the first of Seven Wonders of India. 49% votes went in favor of this 1000-plus year old marvel of human architecture and religious faith.

How to reach Shravanabelegola:

If you are starting from Bangalore, here is the detail. Shravanabelegola is 158 km from Bangalore. From Bangalore take the road to Nelamangala (27 km), and turn left onto NH-48. Divert from Hirisave to Sravanabelagola, and cover 18KMS to reach the place.