Things to do in Murudeshwar

Murdeshwar Temple

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  Home to the second-tallest statue of Lord Shiva in the world, this coastal temple has references in ancient Hindu scriptures and has since been reconstructed.

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  Set atop Kanduka Hill, the temple is nestled amidst the embrace of the Arabian Sea on three sides.

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  It is believed that worshipping here helps devotees fulfil their wishes and experience prosperity.

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  In 2008, the temple complex also built a 20-storied tower, the world’s second-tallest gopuram (entrance tower). Devotees can take a lift to the top floor of Rajagopuram and witness panoramic views.

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  Temple Timings: 06:00 am to 01:00 pm and 03:00 pm to 08:30 pm

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  Aarti Timings: Morning Puja: 06:30 am to 07:30 am | Afternoon Puja: 12:15 pm to 01:00 pm | Evening Puja: 07:15 pm to 08:15 pm

Best Areas to Stay in Tirupati

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  Shri Idagunji Mahaganapathi Temple: Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, this ancient temple is set along the Indian West coast, near Murudeshwar, and attracts thousands of devotees annually. The temple is popular for its unique, black-stoned standing idol of the Lord. Temple Timings: 06:00 am to 01:00 pm and 03:00 pm to 08:30 pm

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  Kodlamane Sri Vishnumurthy Temple: Located in Balkur, a town very close to Murudeshwar, this temple is a prominent pilgrimage site for Hindus. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is nestled amidst a beautiful hill forest, next to a stream. Temple Timings: 07:00 am to 01:30 pm and 04:30 pm to 08:30 pm

Must-visit Attractions in & Around Murudeshwar

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  Murudeshwar Beach: A popular leisure destination, attracting travellers to swim, engage in fishing, or sunbathe on the golden sands.

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  Netrani Island: Also referred to as Pigeon Island, famous for snorkeling and fascinating rock formations, and accessible via boat from the Murudeshwar Beach.

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  Apsara Konda Falls (22.7 km): A tiny yet picturesque waterfall, boasting of mythical stories, lush greens, and splendid views nearby.

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  Basavaraja Durga Fort (40 km): Attracts history buffs with its architectural beauty and adventure enthusiasts with an exciting trek up the hill.

Best Areas to Stay in Murudeshwar

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  Murudeshwar Temple: The sacred aura of this area, lined with budget hotels and guesthouses, is perfect for devotees and history buffs seeking a stay near the Shiva statue.

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  Bhatkal Road: This is a bustling hub near the railway station, lined with hotels and homestays, offering devotees easy access to eateries and transport.

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  NH-66: Convenient access to the hotels and homestays makes this area a great pit stop for road trippers.

Good to Know Before You Travel

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  How to Reach: For flyers, the nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport. Guests can cover the remaining 160 km between the city and the airport easily by road. There is a railway station within in the city, located 2.4 km from the city centre.

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  What to Buy: Most souvenirs that travellers carry back home from the city are handcrafted by local artisans, including textiles, jewellery, wood carvings, pottery, and more.

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  What to Eat: From vegetarian South Indian picks like dosa and idlis to coastal seafood like squid fry and prawn ghee roast, the food scene in the city is diverse and vibrant.