Popular Temple
Mahabaleshwar Temple, Gokarna
Gokarna, Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka
The 'Kashi of the South' — where Ravana's Atmalinga became forever fixed in the earth
At a glance
- Location
- Gokarna, Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka
- Presiding deity
- Lord Shiva (as Mahabaleshwar, the Atmalinga)
- Temple type
- Popular Temple
- Tradition
- Shaiva
- Nearest railway station
- Gokarna Road railway station (~10 km)
- Nearest airport
- Dabolim Airport, Goa (~145 km)
- Best time to visit
- October to March; Mahashivratri is celebrated with particular grandeur.
History
The Gokarna Mahabaleshwar temple's legend involves Ravana, who obtained the Atmalinga from Shiva and attempted to carry it to Lanka; through Ganesha's cleverness, the linga was fixed permanently into the earth at Gokarna, becoming impossible to move — hence the name "Mahabaleshwar" (of great strength). The temple stands near the Arabian Sea and is known for its ancient Dravidian architecture.
Spiritual significance
Gokarna is regarded as South India's Kashi, and its beaches are world-famous for their natural beauty, making it popular for both pilgrimage and tourism.
Plan your visit
Darshan timings
6:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM (two shifts).
Timings change on festivals and special occasions. Confirm with the temple's official source before you travel.
Gokarna Road station lies on the Konkan Railway line, connected to Mumbai, Goa, and Mangalore; the temple is an easy auto ride from the station.
Continue your Shiva bhakti
Devotional texts for this deity, already on the site.