TirthaSeva logo

Home › Temples › Karnataka

Karnataka

Mahabaleshwar Temple, Gokarna

The Atmalinga.

Deity
Shiva as Mahabaleshwar (the Atmalinga)
Where
Gokarna, Karnataka
Time to keep
1 day
Best season
October to March; Maha Shivaratri

Why this temple matters

Gokarna holds the Atmalinga of Shiva and is one of the seven Muktisthalas of Karnataka. It is an important place for rituals for ancestors, done on the beach beside the town.

The story

Ravana won the Atmalinga from Shiva on condition that it never touched the ground. Ganesha, disguised as a cowherd boy, offered to hold it and set it down here. It has stayed rooted at Gokarna ever since.

What to look for

  • The Atmalinga, which pilgrims touch through an opening in the sanctum
  • The Maha Ganapati temple, visited first by custom
  • Koti Theertha tank and the town beach

Festivals and when to go

  • Maha Shivaratri, with a large chariot festival

The practical truth

  • Men usually remove shirts in the sanctum.
  • Ancestral rites can be arranged; tell us in advance.

Timings, rules and festival dates change. We confirm the current details for every yatra.

Have a question about Gokarna?

Questions about this temple? Ask us directly.

Start a guided enquiry

Combine Gokarna with

KarnatakaMurudeshwarShiva by the sea KarnatakaKollurMookambika Udupi: The famous Lord Krishna temple situated in the town of Udupi, Karnataka.... FOr more info..Please visit en.wikipedia.org KarnatakaUdupiSri Krishna through the window

How we take you here

Tell us your dates, your companions and your pace. We shape the yatra and explain every cost before you confirm.

Plan my Gokarna yatra

Questions yatris ask

When is the best time to visit Gokarna?

October to March; Maha Shivaratri. Festival days are the most crowded, so plan and book early for those.

How much time should we keep for Gokarna?

We suggest 1 day at an easy pace, more if you are travelling with elders or for a festival.

What can we combine with Gokarna?

Murudeshwar, Kollur, Udupi fit well on the same yatra. Your SahaYatri will suggest an order that suits your pace.

Can TirthaSeva plan our yatra to Gokarna?

Yes. We plan the route, travel, stays and temple visits around your pace, with a multilingual SahaYatri as your single point of contact. Message us on WhatsApp at +91 74115 67001.