SahasraLinga

Another key place of pilgrimage, this place is actually located in the centre of the river Shalmala. The nearest town to this place is Sirsi, 17 km away. Sahasralinga literally translates into 1000 ‘Lingas’ and the name is derived from the numerous Lingas that have been carved on the rocks along the bank of the river Shalmala. ‘Linga’ is a symbol of worship of Lord Shiva. History has it that these ‘Lingas’ were installed by Sadashivaraya who ruled Sirsi between 1678 and 1718. Each of them carries a carving of ‘Nandi’ or the bull in front. The place is thronged by numerous devotees during the festival of Maha Shivratri during which elaborate poojas and rituals are conducted here.
The sight of hundreds of ‘Lingas’ amidst waters is truly a fascinating spectacle. The ‘Lingas’ are of varying shapes and sizes and some of them are dislodged/disfigured due to the force of the water. Approachable from the Sirsi-Yellapur road, it is recommended to visit this place when the water level is low so that the carvings are clearly visible.