Explore Mahabaleshwar Temple and its alleys

Gokarna has been known for ages as a spiritual town for the popular Mahabaleshwar Temple, which lies very close to the main beach of Gokarna. It attracts large number of pilgrims throughout the year, who take a dip in the sea before paying homage to Lord Shiva. This temple, made of granite stones, is built in Dravidian architectural style and is famous for its Atmalinga or Shivlinga. Placed on a pedestal, devotees can view the top of the Shivalinga only through a hole. A visit to this 1500-year-old temple during Shivrathri would be a great experience as the town celebrates the big festival with a Rath Yatra and other celebrations. It is also considered by Hindus as one of the places of salvation in Karnataka. The Ganapathi Temple nearby is also quite a popular one. The narrow dwindling streets and alleys of Gokarna with numerous cows for company is an interesting place to saunter. With temple paraphernalia displayed on either side of the streets by the vendors, the place looks colourful, vibrant and religious. One can pick up rudrakshas, miniature Shivlingas and many other interesting artifacts from the displays. The narrow lane beside the temple leads to the main beach of Gokarna.