Murudeshwar Temple, Karnataka: History, Timings, Atma-Linga Story

If you are looking for a beach destination that also gives you a deep spiritual vibe, then Murudeshwar in Karnataka is a perfect place to visit. Famous for having the asia’s second tallest statue of Lord Shiva, Murudeshwar is not just a pilgrimage spot but also a scenic getaway.

Surrounded by the Arabian Sea on three sides and backed by the Western Ghats, this peaceful town offers a unique mix of nature, spirituality, and adventure. Whether you’re going for darshan at the iconic Murudeshwar Temple or just want to relax on the beach with a view of the majestic Shiva statue, Murudeshwar promises a memorable experience for every kind of traveller.

Murudeshwar Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in the town of Murudeshwar, in Karnataka. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is most well-known for having one of the tallest Shiva statues in the world, standing at a height of around 123 feet. The temple is built right on the coast, so you get to see beautiful views of the Arabian Sea from here.

About Temple Structure and Location

The main temple, also called the Raja Gopura, is about 20 stories high and visitors can take a lift to the top to enjoy a panoramic view of the sea and the huge Shiva statue. The temple is built in traditional South Indian style and has beautiful carvings and sculptures. The location itself is very peaceful, with the temple surrounded by sea on three sides, making it perfect for a spiritual and scenic trip.

History of Murudeshwar Temple

Murudeshwar Temple is not just a beautiful coastal temple in Karnataka, it is also deeply connected with a powerful story from Hindu mythology — the legend of the Atma Linga.

According to legend, Ravana, the demon king of Lanka, was a great devotee of Lord Shiva. He performed intense penance and worshipped Lord Shiva to obtain the Atma Linga, a divine and powerful form of Lord Shiva.

Pleased by his devotion, Lord Shiva granted him the Atma Linga — but with one condition: the Linga must never be placed on the ground. If kept down, it would get fixed at that place forever.

Now, the gods were worried. If Ravana took the Atma Linga to Lanka, he would become invincible. So, Lord Vishnu and Lord Ganesha created a clever plan to stop him.

On his way back, Ravana reached Gokarna, and Lord Ganesha (disguised as a small boy) tricked him. Ganesha told Ravana that he would hold the Linga while Ravana took a quick break, but only for a few minutes. Ravana agreed. Ganesha placed the Linga on the ground, and it got fixed there permanently.

Angry and helpless, Ravana tried to pull it out. The top part flew off and landed in a place now known as Murudeshwar. That’s where this temple was built, honoring Lord Shiva and the story of the Atma Linga.

Visiting Tips

The temple is open to all, and entry is free. It gets crowded during festivals like Maha Shivaratri, so plan your visit accordingly. Early mornings or evenings are best to enjoy the view and avoid heat. You can also enjoy the nearby beach, local shops, and small eateries. Photography is allowed in the outside areas but not inside the sanctum.

When was Murudeshwar Temple Built?

The Murudeshwar Temple as it stands today has ancient origins but has undergone major renovations and reconstruction over time.

Here’s a brief historical timeline:

• Ancient Times: The temple’s original shrine is believed to be several centuries old, with legends linking it to the Ramayana era. It is said that the Atma Linga was broken and scattered by Ravana, and one part fell here—making it a spiritually significant spot.
• Modern Construction: The present structure of Murudeshwar Temple, including the towering Raja Gopura (249 feet high) and the massive 123-feet Shiva statue, was developed and renovated in the 1990s and early 2000s by philanthropist and businessman R. N. Shetty.

So, while the roots of the temple go back to ancient times, the modern form we see today was mostly built in the late 20th and early 21st century.

Who built Murudeshwar Temple​?

The original Murudeshwar Temple has ancient roots and is believed to have been constructed centuries ago by local rulers and devotees, inspired by legends from the Ramayana. However, the grand modern structure we see today was renovated and expanded significantly by:

Dr. R. N. Shetty

A well-known philanthropist, industrialist, and devotee of Lord Shiva, Dr. R. N. Shetty is credited with rebuilding and modernizing the temple complex in the 1990s and early 2000s.

His Contributions Include:

• Constructing the 249-feet tall Raja Gopuram (temple tower) — one of the tallest in India.
• Erecting the 123-feet tall Shiva statue — second tallest Shiva statue in the world.
• Developing the temple premises, gardens, and tourist facilities to make Murudeshwar a major pilgrimage and tourist attraction.

So while the spiritual significance is ancient, the present-day majestic temple was built and funded by Dr. R. N. Shetty as an act of devotion.

Murudeshwar Temple Timings (Karnataka):

• Morning Darshan: 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM

• Evening Darshan: 3:00 PM to 8:15 PM

Note: Temple remains open all days of the week.

Note: Timings may slightly vary on special days or festivals. It’s best to visit early morning or evening for peaceful darshan.

How to reach Murudeshwara?

By Road:

Murudeshwar is well-connected by road.

• You can easily get KSRTC or private buses from cities like Bangalore, Mangalore, Udupi, Gokarna, and Karwar.
• If you’re driving, just follow NH-66 (National Highway) — it passes right through Murudeshwar.

By Train:

Murudeshwar has its own railway station — 📍Murdeshwar Railway Station (MRDW)

• It’s just about 2 km from the temple.
• Trains from Mumbai, Mangalore, Goa, Karwar, and Bangalore stop here.
• From the station, you can take an auto or walk to the temple.

By Air:

The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (IXE) – around 155 km away.

• From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus/train to reach Murudeshwar.

Final Words About Murudeshwar Temple:

Murudeshwar Temple is not just a religious place — it’s a powerful mix of mythology, history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Whether you go there to pray, explore the grand Shiva statue, or just enjoy the sea view from Raja Gopuram, the experience will stay with you forever.

The legend of the Atma-Linga, the peaceful vibe of the temple, and the stunning architecture make Murudeshwar a must-visit destination in Karnataka. It’s the kind of place where you feel connected — to nature, to culture, and to something beyond yourself.

If you’re planning a spiritual or coastal trip, make sure Murudeshwar is on your list. You’ll come back with a calm heart, beautiful memories, and maybe even a few blessings!