Question 1

What is the significance of Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple in Karnataka?

Accepted Answer

Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple in Gokarna, Karnataka, is one of the most important Shiva pilgrimage sites in India. It enshrines the Atmalinga - a Shivalinga that, according to the Puranas, Ravana brought from Kailash and Lord Ganesha tricked him into placing permanently in the ground. Gokarna is also one of the seven sacred cities (Saptapur) in Shaivism and a Char Mukti Kshetra.

Question 2

What are the darshan timings at Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple?

Accepted Answer

Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple is open for darshan from 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM daily. The temple follows strict rituals; only Hindus are allowed inside the sanctum. Abhishekam and special pujas are performed during morning hours. On auspicious days like Maha Shivaratri and Mondays, timings may be extended.

Question 3

How to reach Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple?

Accepted Answer

Gokarna is located in Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. The nearest railway station is Gokarna Road (9 km), with trains from Goa, Mangalore, and Mumbai on the Konkan Railway. Hubli Airport (160 km) is the nearest airport. Regular buses connect Gokarna from Hubli, Karwar, Mangalore, and Goa. By road, Gokarna is on the NH66 coastal highway.

Question 4

What is the best time to visit Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple?

Accepted Answer

The best time to visit Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple is October to March. Maha Shivaratri (February/March) is the most important festival, with a grand chariot procession (Ratha Yatra) that draws thousands of pilgrims. The Karthika Deepotsava (November) is another major event. Gokarna's beaches are also most pleasant during the winter months.

Question 5

What is the Atmalinga legend associated with Gokarna temple?

Accepted Answer

According to Hindu mythology, the Atmalinga at Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple was Lord Shiva's own soul-linga, which Ravana (Lanka's king) obtained as a boon. On his way back to Lanka, Ganesha (disguised as a boy) tricked Ravana into placing the linga on the ground, which immediately took root permanently at Gokarna. Lord Vishnu is said to have sliced the outer case into pieces, giving rise to the surrounding satellite Shiva temples.

Question 6

Are non-Hindus allowed inside Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple?

Accepted Answer

Non-Hindus are not permitted to enter the inner sanctum of Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple. The temple strictly follows traditional Agama rules. Foreign visitors and non-Hindus can visit the outer precincts and enjoy Gokarna town and its beaches. It is advisable to carry an identity document; temple authorities may verify faith before granting entry.

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Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple

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Enter through the ancient stone entrance

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Visit the beautiful beaches of Gokarna

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