Gomateswara temple at Sravanabelgola, Karnataka Tourism
In Karnataka it was but natural that in such a climate of deep religiosity and tolerance, Jainism would also flourish and take deep roots in the soil. There are different traditions as to how Jainism which originated in Bihar had traveled to Karnataka but the fact remains that the State has become an important center of Jainism. In different part of the State the ancient religion of India has found roots but the mammoth shrine of Gomatheswara at Sravanabelgola in the southern part of the State will always remain a lasting monument to the great influence that Jainism has wielded on the life of the people of Karnataka.
The monolithic statue at Gomateswara stands as a magnificent sight visible even from a distance of 25 km. The seventeen meter high statue, believed to have been erected more than a thousand years ago in the Hassan district of Karnataka, stands as a great monument not only to the abiding faith of the people but also to the splendid architectural excellence displayed by the hands that put it up.
