Murudeshwar Shiva Temple is one the most visited pilgrimage and tourist destinations in Karnataka. The temple is situated on the Kanduka Hill which is encompassed on three sides by the waters of Arabian Sea.
This 123ft high Shiva statue is the second highest Shiva Statue in the world and First in Asia.
The temple is entirely modernized with lift facilities in 237.5ft tall Raja Gopura which allows visitor to experience the panoramic view of the Shiva temple surrounded by water and the entire temple complex with a nominal entry fee of 5/- or 10/-. The entry to the lift starts from morning 6 am on-wards so this would be the best time visit.
The temple complex is beautiful all around with the sound of splashing waves and cool breeze adding to its glory. The chronicles of building this temple dates to the ages of Ramayana. The cave below the large Shiva statue beautifully depicts this in the form of smaller statues. The entire story is narrated also by an audio recording played inside the cave. Here goes the story
Ravan's mother Kaikesi,devotee of Lord Shiva, worshiped Shivlinga made of Sand. She always wanted to worship Aatmalinga of Lord Shiva and expressed her wish to her son Ravan.
Ravan promised his mother that he would...