Mahabaleshwar Temple, Gokarna: Abode of Lord Shiva
Opening Hours
6:00 AM - 8:00 PM (Subject to change; confirm before visiting)
Best Time To Visit
October to March (Pleasant weather)
Aarti Timing
Morning Aarti : 6:00 AM (Approximate)Evening Aarti : 7:30 PM (Approximate)
The Mahabaleshwar Temple in Gokarna is a renowned Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is known for housing the 'Atmalinga', believed to bestow immense blessings on devotees. The temple's ancient architecture and spiritual ambiance create a profound and enriching experience for pilgrims.
Expectations for Pilgrims
To receive blessings from the Atmalinga and seek spiritual fulfillment.
To experience the serenity and sanctity of the temple's atmosphere.
Sacred Prasad: Blessings from Lord Mahabaleshwar
Prasad at the Mahabaleshwar Temple usually includes sacred ash (vibhuti), flowers offered to the deity, and sometimes consecrated food. It symbolizes the divine grace and blessings received from Lord Shiva.
Prasad / Prasadam :
Note : Prasad is distributed by the temple priests after the completion of prayers and rituals. It is usually offered freely to all devotees.
Offerings to Lord Mahabaleshwar: Expressions of Devotion
Devotees visiting the Mahabaleshwar Temple can offer various items to express their devotion and seek blessings. These offerings are a way to connect with the divine and participate in the temple's sacred rituals.
Devotee's Offerings
It is customary to offer these items with a pure heart and sincere devotion. Temple priests can guide you on appropriate offerings for specific prayers or rituals.
Essential Experiences: Immerse in Gokarna's Spirituality
Activities:
Sacred Rituals & Pujas: Connecting with the Divine
The Mahabaleshwar Temple hosts various pujas and rituals dedicated to Lord Shiva. These ceremonies are an integral part of the spiritual experience, allowing devotees to deepen their connection with the deity.
Attending Pujas:
Non Attending Pujas:
Pujas can be arranged directly with the temple priests. It is advisable to inquire in advance, especially during peak seasons and festivals.
Historical Roots & Profound Meaning: The Legacy of Mahabaleshwar Temple
The Mahabaleshwar Temple has ancient origins and is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and the history of Gokarna.
Significance: A Paramount Spiritual Beacon
The Mahabaleshwar Temple is one of the most sacred Shiva temples in India, revered for its Atmalinga and its profound spiritual significance.
Key Aspects:
- The Atmalinga The Atmalinga is considered the heart of the temple's sanctity. It represents the ultimate reality and is believed to grant liberation (moksha) to those who worship it with devotion.
Opening Hours
Sunday : 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM Monday : 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM Tuesday : 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM Wednesday : 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM Thursday : 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM Friday : 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM Saturday : 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM
User Review
Total Reviews : 20978
- Star Rating :
Author Name : GTMCare
Review Time : a month ago
Review : personalized review by myself Dr. Hukam Singh Sandu for the Om Mahabaleshwar Temple, Gokarna:
Review by Dr. Hukam Singh Sandu – #GTMCare
Visiting the Om Mahabaleshwar Temple in Gokarna was a deeply spiritual and serene experience. As a naturopath and wellness professional, I often seek places that radiate natural energy and spiritual calm—and this temple truly embodies both.
The sacred atmosphere, rich history, and the tranquil surroundings of the temple made it a perfect destination for inner reflection and rejuvenation. The divine presence of Lord Shiva can truly be felt here, especially being one of the rare temples where devotees can touch the Atmalinga directly.
I found the temple premises clean and well-organized, and the priests were respectful and knowledgeable. The nearby Om Beach adds to the peaceful charm of the place, making it not just a religious visit, but a holistic wellness journey.
A must-visit for seekers of spirituality, peace, and natural healing.
– Dr. Hukam Singh Sandu
Assistant Professor | #GTMCare - Star Rating :
Author Name : Kishor Rai
Review Time : a month ago
Review : The Mahabaleshwar Temple in Gokarna is a deeply spiritual and serene place with a strong sense of history and devotion. The atmosphere is peaceful, and the temple architecture reflects timeless beauty. It’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a sacred experience in South India.
The only reason I’m giving 4 stars instead of 5 is due to the waiting time in the queue, especially during weekends or festive seasons. It can take a while to get inside, so it’s best to plan your visit during off-peak hours if possible.
Still, it’s worth the wait for the experience. Truly a divine and memorable place. - Star Rating :
Author Name : Ha Ma Jo
Review Time : 2 weeks ago
Review : Most important religious place in Uttar Kannada which is unique as it has Aatmlinga inside the temple. It's believed this temple was built 1500 years ago.
Mythological story behind this place and temple is quite interesting and one must listen to it to full grasp glory of the place.
There is generally large crowd for Darshan. Be ready to be in que for at least half hour even on weekdays.
Devotees can go near to the linga and take Darshan which is good thing. There is generally no pushing by temple staff which is generally the case at popular shrines.
There is beautiful temple of Adi-Gokarna inside the temple complex. - Star Rating :
Author Name : Pankaj Bharti
Review Time : 2 weeks ago
Review : Shree Mahabaleshwar Dev Temple in Gokarna is a sacred and tranquil haven, revered for its ancient Shiv Ling and powerful spiritual aura. - Star Rating :
Author Name : Indushree Shanthachary
Review Time : 2 months ago
Review : To be honest.
The temple people don’t treat you good untill unless you give money.
It has become business, peoples who give money or put dakshine to Poojaris they allow you to touch n feel athma linga in peace if not they would move you out soon with lot of shoutings 🤣.
They have a board saying no foreigners allowed but I saw foreigners inside a temple
Only tradition wears are allowed inside a temple.
Women : chuddi or saree
Men : no pants, only panche with no baniyans n shirt.
Please visit this temple with peace without any external taughts .
First visit the ganapathi temple which is next to this shiva temple
Next visit shiva temple and also backside of this temple there is a Paravathi temple do not miss to visit
Most of the peoples don’t visit Paravathi temple which is backside of this shiva temple bcz they don’t know.