Murdeshwar — Exquisite and Divine Destination

 

The fame of the town — The huge coastal statue of Shiva

Traveling is normally associated as an activity to relax the brain and muscles. In the present corporate rundowns, the mind takes a huge blow. Humans always find ways to achieve peace and happiness, and what could be better than some undisturbed days with family in a beautiful peaceful destination.

Let’s plan your next trip here !

The enthralling and divine town of Murdeshwar lies on the pristine western coast of India in the beautiful state of Karnataka. The town got its fame and recognition due to the 123 feet idol of Lord Shiva (2nd Tallest Shiva Statue) constructed on Kanduka Hill, which is surrounded by the Arabian Sea, giving this place a magical feeling. In case, you do a google image search for the name “Murdeshwar”, all the images in the page will resemble the one above. The credit of developing this mesmerizing place goes to Dr. R.N. Shetty, a entrepreneur, businessman and educationist.

Tourist Attractions ?

Statue of Shiva: The statue is constructed at the tip of a huge rock island surrounded by sea from three sides, giving a fantastic oceania experience for the eyes. You need to climb on few stairs to reach the base temple located at top of the hill island. Prefer visiting it the evening, which makes the climbing bit easy.

Shri Murdeshwar Temple: Well known for its 237.5 feet Rajagopura (entrance) having 20 stories. The temple is beautiful and the ocean around gives a scenic touch. Take the elevator to reach 18th floor of Gopuram to witness the mind blowing views of statue and sea around. You can capture many ever memorable pictures of the town which looks engraved amidst coconut palms provides much needed greens for the eyes.

View of Rajagopuram and Shiva Statue

The base temple and view from 18th floor of Rajagopuram

Murdeshwar Beach: A clean white sand beach exists at north and south end of the island offering a good beach time for visitors. The cleanliness of the beach is worth mentioning. Visit it in the early morning hours for a peaceful experience.

Beach-side Market: For children and ladies, the beach market provides a good option to buy memories. The prices are quite moderate, but you always have the option to bargain for lesser rates.

Snack at Naveen Beach Restaurant for Sunset : If you are not staying in RNS, It is highly recommended that after your day activity, do sit here for tea and snack at the sea facing area for a beautiful saffron sunset. But ! Please ignore the taste. That may be disappointing.

Scuba Diving at Netrani Island: Many scuba diving firms offer you this facility and the prices may range from Rs 3000–4000 per person. So, it is on your pocket power to decide.

Beach Market (Left) and RNS Residency (Right)

How to reach this place ?

Best Way, take a train in the Konkan Railways. The advantage, it goes through a scenic route and its light on the pocket. The town has its own railway station but few train halt here. The other nearest station is Bhatkal which is around 13km from here , and most trains have their halt here. If you are staying in 300–400 km radius, I will suggest you to have a road trip, especially if you are traveling with family. Nearest airport is Mangalore.

Where to Stay ?

RNS Residency is the most highly rated stay option that can be taken and might have the best views any resort can offer in the town, but it is bit costly. During my visit, i opted for Dhenu Atithya, a good stay option with in-house restaurant serving descent food and most important, quite lighter on pocket.

Who should Visit ?

A travelers who likes coastal towns, coastal food and relish peaceful beaches. Having a faithful believe for the almighty will make your visit more peaceful and refreshing. And, yeah ! You should be able to adjust with basic south-indian food.

Who should not Visit ?

If you are looking for party towns, night life and happening beaches, skip this place. Always remember, this is a town centered around a religious spot, so don’t expect it to have a Goa like atmosphere and please do not try to make it.

No of Days required: 1 Night -2 Days

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Personal Experience about the place:

While returning, I forgot one of my bag near the auto-stand and I was completely unaware of it. Just close to railway station, my auto driver got a call that your travelers forgot his bag here and i am bringing it and within minutes he arrived with the bag. The best thing, the driver didn’t expected any monetary favour in return. That’s rare !..

After reading all this, You may get a question, “Traveling so far for just this statue ? Is it that worth”. My answer to this will be only one line. “Where on Earth can you find Divine Blessings while sitting on a Pristine Beach”.

Happy Traveling !