Karkala

Welcome to Karkala: Where Heritage Meets Nature

Namaste and welcome to Karkala, a beautiful town in the Udupi district of Karnataka! Located close to the Western Ghats, Karkala is a special place with lots of history, spiritual vibes, and natural beauty. It’s often called “Pandya Nagari” from its olden days of Jain rule. The town is famous for its black granite, which you can see in many of its ancient structures. That’s why its name “Karkala” actually comes from “kari-kal,” meaning “black stone.”

Karkala, nestled in the Udupi district of Karnataka, is a town steeped in history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Known predominantly for its significant Jain heritage, particularly the colossal Bahubali statue, Karkala also boasts a rich tapestry of Hindu temples, churches, and picturesque lakes, making it a diverse and intriguing destination for travelers.

The town’s name is believed to be derived from “Karikal,” meaning black stone in Tulu, owing to the abundance of black granite found in the region, which has been extensively used in its architectural marvels. Karkala flourished under the rule of the Byrarasas, a lineage of the Santara dynasty, who transformed it into a historic town and a prominent religious center.

Karkala situated about 35 kms. from Udupi, is the headquarters of the Karkala Taluk. About, 52 kms. north-east of Mangalore, is known primarily for the statue of Lord Bahubali (Gomateshwara). The 45-feet tall statue is estimated to weigh 80 tons. Besides its colossal size, the Karkala statue is rendered more striking by its situation on the top of a huge granite rock, 300 feet high, on the verge of a picturesque little lake. This image was erected by a Jain king in 1432, in memory of Bahubali (the first Tirthankara) who renounced the world at his most victorious moment. Just opposite to this image there is a Jain ‘Basadi’ known as ‘Chaturmukha Basadi’ which is built of granite. In front of this temple, there is a beautifully carved pillar called Manasthamhha which is nearly 50 feet high. It is the most beautiful and tallest of 11 Manasthambhas. Like Moodabidri, there are 18 temples at Karkala. The monolith of Gomateshwara formed the nucleus around which the Jain Math and Basadis sprang up. They draw 3 streams of devotees, lovers of art and students of history.

Revered by Jains the world over, the statue of Gomateshwara stands as a true Anantashayana, Karkalasymbol of their faith. Five such statues can be found in Karnataka, the most famous of which stands majestically in Shravanabelagola, (near Hassan, 230 kms from Mangalore). Installed in 981 A.D., it is 1000 years old. Karkala (400 years old), Venur (300 years old), Dharmasthala and Gomatagiri possess the other four. Though not as impressive in size or finish as the one in Shravanabelagola, they nevertheless exude an aura of their own. Apart from their size, the statues are remarkable for the values that they represent-the triumph of man over physical desires Bahubali symbolizes renunciation and peace. Though he could have remained a monarch with all wealth and enjoyments, he still chose to renounce everything and became an ascetic.

Describing the Gomateshwara, Walhouse writes in Frazer’s Magazine: “Upon the outskirts of the town…. the enchanted castles of fairy tales came back to mind, for on the top is seen a castle like wall pierced with a wide-arched entrance, and a dark gigantic form towering over it waist high…the image 45 feet in height. Nude, cut from a single mass of granite, darkened by the monsoons of centuries, the vast statue stands upright with hands hanging straight, in a posture of somewhat stiff but simple dignity. The hair grows in close crisp curls; the broad fleshy cheeks might make the face seem heavy. were it not for the marked and dignified expression conferred by calm, forward-gazing eyes and aquiline nose, somewhat pointed at tip…The arms which touch the body only at Sri Venkataramana Temple, Karkalathe hips are remarkably long, the large well-formed hands, and fingers reaching to knees.”

The Tourist Home in Karkala provides accommodation to the pilgrims.

The famous Venkatramana temple, the abode of Lord Srinivasa, is a place of pilgrimage for Gowda Saraswat Brahmins. This place is known as “Padu Tirupati”.

On the outskirts of the Karkala town, stands the shrine of St. Lawrenceat Attur. The St. Lawrence Church has remarkably rich history.Attur Church, KarkalIt is said that the Attur-Karkala parish was founded even before 1759 A.D.

St. Lawrence of Attur being widely acclaimed as having the power to intercede with God, it is of little wonder that the shrine attracts not only the residents of Udupi District but also pilgrims from all parts of India.

Places to Visit in Karkala

1. Jain Heritage Sites:

• Shri Bhagwan Bahubali Digambar Jain Statue (Gomateshwara Statue): The most iconic landmark of Karkala, this magnificent 42-foot monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali stands majestically on a hill. Carved out of a single granite rock in 1432 AD by King Veera Pandya, it is the second tallest Bahubali statue in Karnataka (after Shravanabelagola). The serene posture of Bahubali, embodying renunciation and peace, attracts thousands of devotees and tourists, especially during the Mahamastakabhisheka ceremony held every 12 years.
• Chaturmukha Basadi: A unique and architecturally stunning Jain temple built in 1586 AD by King Immadi Bhairava. Its name, “Chaturmukha,” means “four faces,” as the temple has four identical entrances leading to a central sanctum, each adorned with images of Jain Tirthankaras. Made entirely of carved granite, it’s a testament to ancient craftsmanship.
• Anekere Basadi: Located in the middle of Anekere Lake, this Jain temple, built in 1545 AD, is another fine example of Chaturmukha architecture. The lake itself, built in 1262 by the Bhairasa dynasty, holds historical significance as a royal bathing spot.
• Manastambha of Hiriangadi: A towering 54-foot high monolithic pillar with intricate carvings, standing in front of the Neminath Basadi. It was installed in 1455-1460 by King Veerepandya IV.
• Venur Gomateshwara Statue: While not directly in Karkala town, Venur, a small town about 28 km away, is home to another 35-foot tall Bahubali statue. It’s often visited in conjunction with Karkala for a complete Jain pilgrimage experience.

2. Lakes and Nature:

• Ramasamudra Lake: A picturesque freshwater lake, a popular picnic spot, and a major source of drinking water for Karkala. It’s surrounded by lush greenery and offers serene views, especially during sunrise and sunset. Boating is also available here.
• Anekere Lake: Besides the Basadi, the lake itself is a tranquil spot for relaxation and birdwatching.
• Ottinene Viewpoint: (While listed for Kundapura, similar viewpoints offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats and coastal plains can be found around Karkala, providing great photography opportunities.)
• Waterfalls: Karkala is surrounded by the Western Ghats, and during the monsoon, several seasonal waterfalls come alive, such as Durga Water Falls and Arbhi Falls, offering refreshing natural experiences.

3. Other Religious Sites:

• St. Lawrence Minor Basilica (Attur Church): This Roman Catholic church, built in 1759, is a significant pilgrimage site, particularly renowned for its annual feast in January which draws devotees from all faiths. It was elevated to the status of a Minor Basilica by Pope Francis in 2016, making it only the second in Karnataka.

4. Cultural & Recreational:

• Shri Parashurama Theme Park (Bailur): A cultural park dedicated to the legendary sage Parashurama.
• Koti-Chennaya Theme Park: Dedicated to the legendary Tuluva folk heroes, Koti and Chennaya, offering insights into local folklore.
• Miyar Kambala: If visiting during the Kambala season (traditional buffalo race), experiencing this vibrant event is a unique cultural immersion.

List of Temples in Karkala

Karkala is home to a multitude of Hindu temples, reflecting its diverse religious landscape. Here are some prominent ones:

• Sri Venkataramana Temple (Padutirupathi): An ancient and highly revered Hindu temple, established by the Goud Saraswat Brahmin community around the 15th century. It is dedicated to Lord Venkataramana (Lord Vishnu) and is often referred to as “Padu Tirupathi” (West Tirupati) due to its resemblance in rites and rituals to the famous Tirumala Temple. It’s known for its annual “Lakshadipotsava” and “Maharathotsava” festivals.
• Shri Anantha Shayana Temple: This temple, dedicated to Lord Ananthapadmanabha (an avatar of Lord Vishnu), has a fascinating history. It was originally a Jain Basadi, later converted into a Hindu temple in the 16th century.
• Veera Maruthi Temple: Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this temple houses a large statue of the deity. It was originally built in 1539.
• Sri Durga Parameshwari Temple (Kukkundoor): A significant temple dedicated to Goddess Durga Parameshwari.
• Pervaje Shree Mahalingeshwara Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Sri Gururaghavendra Mutta: A spiritual center.
• Sri Devaki Krishna Ravalnath Temple: Another revered Hindu temple.
• Shri Padmavati Temple: While Padmavati is also revered in Jainism, there are Hindu temples dedicated to Goddess Padmavati as well.
• Mariamma Temple Karkala: A local temple dedicated to Goddess Mariamma.
• Dendabettu Shree Mahalingeshwara Devasthana: Another temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Sri Dattatreya Mookambika Temple (Hirgana): A temple dedicated to Lord Dattatreya and Goddess Mookambika.
• Sri Venugopalakrishna Temple: Dedicated to Lord Venugopalakrishna.
• Sri Brahmalingeshwara Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Brahma.
• Kala Bhairava Temple: Dedicated to a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva.
• Shri Adhishakti Veerabhadra Temple: Dedicated to Lord Veerabhadra, an incarnation of Shiva.
• Bhagavati Durgaparameshwari Temple.
• Shri Ambika Annapoorneshwary Temple Gurbettu Sanoor.

Karkala truly offers a rich and varied experience, combining historical and architectural wonders with serene natural landscapes and a deep spiritual essence. It’s an ideal destination for those interested in heritage, religious tourism, and exploring the lesser-known gems of coastal Karnataka.