Everything at Murudeshwar seems to be built on a grand scale. Following on the footsteps of Srirangam Temple gopuram, this dome/gopuram is the second tallest gopuram in the world. Hovering over 237 feet, this 21-storey structure gives a fantastic aerial view of the towering Lord Shiva statue. The 18th floor of the gopuram can be accessed via a lift at a nominal cost of INR 10. The top aerial view with the sea forming the background lends an optical illusion that makes the Shiva statue appear even larger. The gopuram also has two life-size statues of elephants at the entrance that are most often used as a prop for selfies and photographs against the structure. Every inch of this gopuram boasts intricately carved figures of gods, goddesses and heavenly beauties. A pair of binoculars or zoom lenses will allow you to view these etched carvings and statues clearly.

The best time to visit Rajagopuram would be before afternoon or early morning as the sun rays fall upon the statue, making the statue illuminate and shine in the natural light. Also, note that there is a very small window that gives the view of the statue, so there is a lot of crowding at the window. An early morning visit is the best to avoid the crowd. Do not miss the bird’s eye view of the beach at the south-end window on the 18th floor.