Vindhyagiri

Vindhyagiri is a prominent hill located in the Hassan district of Karnataka, India. It is one of the two hills that form the town of Sravanabelagola, the other being Chandragiri. Vindhyagiri is renowned for housing the colossal statue of Gomateshwara, also known as Bahubali. This monolithic statue, carved from a single granite rock, stands at an imposing height of 57 feet and is considered one of the most significant Jain monuments in the world. The statue is visible from several miles around and is a major pilgrimage site for the Jain community.

The hill itself is accessible via a flight of approximately 600 steps carved into the rock face. The ascent offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the town of Sravanabelagola and the adjacent Chandragiri hill. Several Jain temples and basadis are also located on Vindhyagiri, dedicated to various Tirthankaras. The most notable among these is the Mahamastakabhisheka temple, which surrounds the base of the Gomateshwara statue. This event, the Mahamastakabhisheka, a grand consecration ceremony, is held once every twelve years, drawing devotees and tourists from across the globe. The history of Vindhyagiri and the statue is deeply intertwined with Jain traditions and the monastic order. It is a place of immense spiritual significance and architectural marvel.