Shri Bahubali Gomateshwara Statue , Karkala - a divine masterpiece

The Bahubali Gomateshwara Statue in Karkala is a 42 foot monolithic marvel built in 1432 CE, symbolizing Jain ideals of renunciation, peace, and enlightenment. It is the second tallest Bahubali statue in the world and a major pilgrimage site in Karnataka.

In the historic town of   Karkala  , nestled in Karnataka’s Udupi district, stands the awe inspiring   Bahubali Gomateshwara Statue   — a monolithic icon of Jain spirituality and artistic grandeur. Erected in   1432 CE   by   Veera Pandya Bhairarasa Wodeyar  , a ruler of the   Santara dynasty  , this statue is a profound symbol of   meditative renunciation and inner victory.

 

The statue was commissioned under the guidance of   Lalitha Kirti Bhattaraka Swami  , a revered Jain spiritual leader.   Bahubali, also known as   Gommateshwara  , is celebrated in Jain tradition for renouncing his kingdom and attaining   Kevala Jnana   (absolute knowledge) through deep meditation. The statue commemorates Bahubali’s   year long penance in standing posture  , during which vines grew around his legs — a motif depicted in the sculpture. 

• The statue stands at 42 feet (12.8 meters)   tall, carved from a single granite rock.
• It is the   second tallest monolithic Bahubali statue   in the world, after the one at Shravanabelagola.
• Bahubali is depicted in the   Kayotsarga posture   — upright, arms hanging down, eyes closed in serene meditation.
• The site includes a   Brahmastambha (pillar of truth)   at the entrance, adding to its spiritual symbolism.

There are 2 routes to reach the temple at hill top . One is by stairs , for senior citizens this is not recommended . Other is through the road which leads to the temple. When we visited the gate to this road was closed following some unforseen event which occurred at Karkala , however on reaching the contact number displayed at gate  , we got prompt response about when it will get opened. So in case if you find the gate closed , call up the number for information.

 

The statue is a major center for   Jain pilgrimages  , especially during the   Mahamastakabhisheka  , a grand anointing ceremony held every 12 years.  It is surrounded by several   Jain Basadis  , including the nearby   Chaturmukha Basadi  , enhancing the region’s religious and architectural richness. The hilltop location offers panoramic views of Karkala and its lush surroundings, making it a serene spot for reflection. 

 

At the Bahubali Gomateshwara site in Karkala, the stambha (pillar), Kshetrapala (guardian deity), and Tirthankara idols each hold deep symbolic meaning in Jain tradition — representing truth, protection, and spiritual liberation respectively. 

The   stambha  , often called the  Brahma Stambha , is a tall, ornate pillar placed at the entrance of Jain temples or sacred sites.  It symbolizes   absolute truth and spiritual purity  , standing as a vertical axis connecting the earthly realm with the divine. In Karkala, the stambha marks the sanctity of the Gomateshwara hill and serves as a   dharmic beacon  , guiding devotees toward righteous conduct and inner clarity. 

The   Kshetrapala   is a protective deity traditionally placed near temple entrances or boundaries.  In Jain tradition, Kshetrapalas are not worshipped as supreme beings but are   guardians of sacred space  , ensuring the sanctity and safety of the temple grounds. At Karkala, the presence of a Kshetrapala near the Bahubali statue reinforces the idea that the site is spiritually fortified, allowing devotees to meditate and worship without disturbance. Tirthankaras   are enlightened beings who have conquered inner passions and guide others on the path to liberation. The idols of   Aranath, Mallinath, and Munisuvratnath   — placed in nearby basadis like the Chaturmukha Jain Basadi — represent   spiritual ideals of renunciation, knowledge, and compassion  . Their placement around the Bahubali statue emphasizes the   continuity of Jain teachings  , with Bahubali as a living embodiment of the path laid out by the Tirthankaras.

 

The   Bahubali Gomateshwara Statue in Karkala   is not just a monument — it’s a spiritual experience that invites visitors to contemplate the virtues of   detachment, peace, and self realization  . Whether you're a pilgrim, a historian, or a seeker of silence, this towering figure offers a timeless message carved in stone. Temple is open between morning 9 AM to 7 PM . Do visit this spot and share your experience.