Murudeshwar Temple: History, Atma Linga Story & Timings 2026

The Divine Marvel on Kanduka Hill

Perched on a hillock surrounded by the Arabian Sea on three sides, Murudeshwar Temple is not just a spiritual center but an architectural wonder. Famous for the World’s Second Tallest Shiva Statue (123 feet) and the massive 20-story Raja Gopura, it attracts millions of devotees annually. But the soul of this temple lies in its ancient legend connecting to the Ramayana.

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Quick Temple Facts

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The Legend: Ravana and the Atma Linga 🕉️

The history of Murudeshwar goes back to the Treta Yuga.

1. Ravana's Penance: The Demon King Ravana performed rigorous penance to please Lord Shiva. He wanted the "Atma Linga" (Soul of Shiva) to attain immortality.
2. The Condition: Shiva granted the boon but with a strict condition: "Do not place the Linga on the ground before reaching Lanka. If you do, it will get fixed there forever."
3. The Trick: Sensing danger, Lord Vishnu and Ganesha devised a plan. As Ravana reached Gokarna, Vishnu blotted out the sun, creating an illusion of dusk. Ravana, a devout Brahmin, had to perform his evening Sandhyavandanam prayers.
4. Ganesha's Role: Ganesha appeared as a shepherd boy. Ravana asked him to hold the Linga. Ganesha agreed but said he would call Ravana thrice, and if he didn't return, he would place it down.
5. The Establishment: Ravana got delayed. Ganesha called thrice and placed the Linga on the ground. It got firmly fixed.
6. Murudeshwar Born: Furious, Ravana tried to uproot the Linga. He threw away the coverings of the Linga. The cloth covering the Linga fell at Mrideshwara (now Murudeshwar). The main Linga remained at Gokarna (Mahabaleshwar Temple).

Thus, the sanctum of Murudeshwar houses a piece of the original divine Atma Linga!

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Architectural Wonders

1. The Shiva Statue (123 ft)

• Built in 2 years by Shivamogga sculptors.
• Designed to glitter in sunshine.
• The statue sits in a lotus position with the sea as a backdrop.
• Photo Tip: Best captured from the Gopuram top or the beach during sunset.

2. The Raja Gopura (237 ft)

• One of the tallest in Asia.
• Uniqueness: It is the only Gopuram with a Lift (Elevator)!
• Ticket: ₹10-20.
• The View: The lift takes you to the 18th floor for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the Shiva statue and the unending Arabian Sea.

3. Bhukailasa Cave Museum

• Located behind the statue.
• Features life-sized sculptures narrating the story of Ravana and Ganesha.
• Entry: ₹10-20.

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Temple Timings & Pooja Schedule (2026)

Pro Tip: Visit during early morning (6-7 AM) for a peaceful darshan, or evening (5 PM) to catch the sunset and night illumination.

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How to Do Darshan?

1. Footwear: Leave footwear at the dedicated counter (nominal fee).
2. Entry: General queue is free. Special darshan tickets might be available on crowded days.
3. Sequence: Visit the main sanctum first → Circumambulate → Visit Shiva Statue → Cave Museum → Gopuram Lift.
4. Prasadam: Laddu Prasadam is available at the counter. Free Annadanam (lunch) is served at noon.

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Where to Stay Near Temple?

Stay close to walk to the temple for early morning aarti.

• RNS Residency: (Premium) Right next door.
• Kamat Yatri Nivas: (Budget) 5 mins walk.
• Temple Trust Rooms: (Budget) Inside complex.

Read Top Hotels Guide →

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a dress code for Murudeshwar Temple?

Yes. Men should wear trousers/dhoti and shirts (removing shirt is not mandatory like in Kerala temples). Women should wear Saree, Chudidar, or long pants. Shorts, mini-skirts, and sleeveless tops are not allowed.

How much time is required to visit the temple?

• Darshan only: 30-45 mins.
• Full tour (Statue + Gopuram + Cave): 2-3 hours.

Can we touch the Atma Linga?

In the main sanctum, devotees are usually not allowed to touch the Linga. You can see the tip of the Linga (resembling a cow's ear) which is illuminated by oil lamps.

Is photography allowed?

Photography is strictly prohibited inside the main sanctum. However, you can take photos freely outside, near the Shiva statue, and from the Gopuram.

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Complete Your Pilgrimage

We can help plan your spiritual journey, including stays at Gokarna and Kollur Mookambika.

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Related Guides

Temple Rooms Booking →

One Day Trip Itinerary →

Bangalore to Murudeshwar →

Hotels Near Temple →

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