Exploring the Mystical Stone Sculptures of Sahasralinga, Sirsi

Nestled deep within the lush forests of the Western Ghats in Karnataka, the sacred site of Sahasralinga near Sirsi is a hidden gem that blends spirituality with nature's tranquility. My recent visit to this enchanting destination left me awestruck and reflective.

Sahasralinga (thousand Lingas) is a name of a place situated at 12 Kms north of the town of Sirsi. There is a proper tar road going to Sahasralinga from Sirsi.

As I wandered along the banks of the Shalmala River, what greeted me was nothing short of divine artistry. Thousands of Shiva Lingas, each carefully carved onto naturally occurring rocks, stretch across the riverbed. What makes this site so unique is the seamless fusion of human devotion and natural beauty. Some lingas are accompanied by intricately carved Nandis, the sacred bull and devoted mount of Lord Shiva, patiently facing the linga in eternal reverence.

Sahasralinga (thousand Lingas) is a name of a place situated at 12 Kms north of the town of Sirsi. There is a proper tar road going to Sahasralinga from Sirsi.

It takes around 20-25 minutes from Sirsi to drive there. If you happen to visit some of the famous places in the north Karnataka like Gokarna or Jog falls, you can also cover this place. This place is more ideal for a family and picnic. This place is more ideal for a family and picnic. Here is the distance of Sahasralinga from other places:

Sahasralinga from Jog falls: 75 Km (around 2 hours)

Sahasralinga from Gokarna: 100 Kms (Around 3 hours)

While going from Gokarna to Sahasralinga, You will cross Kumta, 15 Km south of Gokarna and then you will take Kumta-Sirsi road. So, on the way, you can also cover Yana which is a really beautiful place to see with rock caves in the middle of the forest.

Sahasralinga:

Best time to visit Sahasralinga:

Other facilities at Sahasralinga:

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Sahasralinga:

In Sanskrit, Sahasralinga means thousand (Sahasra) Lingas. These all Lingams signify lord Shiva. Sahasralinga is situated in the river Kengre which is a small river. It is said that these shiva lingams were built by Sadashivaraya, king of Sirsi.

Besides lingams, you can also see Basava or the Nandi, the Vahana of lord Shiva, in the river. According to local people, a few years ago, there used to be a lot of Lingas but people stole the lingams from this place. So, do not particularly expect a thousand of lingams but yeah there are a few hundred.

The peaceful sound of flowing water, the soft rustling of bamboo leaves, and the spiritual energy in the air make Sahasralinga a serene retreat for anyone seeking a moment of peace or divine connection. The carvings are said to have been commissioned during the reign of the Sadashivarayavarma, a king of the Kadamba dynasty, adding a deep historical value to the site.

Sahasralinga is not just a religious site—it’s a reminder of how devotion and nature can coexist in perfect harmony. It’s a must-visit for photographers, history buffs, spiritual seekers, and nature lovers alike.

Tips for Travelers:

Best visited post-monsoon (October to February) when the river flow is gentle.

Wear comfortable walking shoes—most sculptures are scattered across slippery rocks.

Early morning visits offer the best lighting for photography and a more peaceful experience.

Respect the sanctity of the site—avoid touching or stepping on the sculptures

Sahasralinga Travel Guide, Sirsi

Sahasralinga (thousand Lingas) is a name of a place situated at 12 Kms north of the town of Sirsi. There is a proper tar road going to Sahasralinga from Sirsi.

It takes around 20-25 minutes from Sirsi to drive there. If you happen to visit some of the famous places in the north Karnataka like Gokarna or Jog falls, you can also cover this place. This place is more ideal for a family and picnic. This place is more ideal for a family and picnic. Here is the distance of Sahasralinga from other places:

• Sahasralinga from Jog falls: 75 Km (around 2 hours)
• Sahasralinga from Gokarna: 100 Kms (Around 3 hours)

While going from Gokarna to Sahasralinga, You will cross Kumta, 15 Km south of Gokarna and then you will take Kumta-Sirsi road. So, on the way, you can also cover Yana which is a really beautiful place to see with rock caves in the middle of the forest

Sahasralinga:

In Sanskrit, Sahasralinga means thousand (Sahasra) Lingas. These all Lingams signify lord Shiva. Sahasralinga is situated in the river Kengre which is a small river. It is said that these shiva lingams were built by Sadashivaraya, king of Sirsi.

Besides lingams, you can also see Basava or the Nandi, the Vahana of lord Shiva, in the river. According to local people, a few years ago, there used to be a lot of Lingas but people stole the lingams from this place. So, do not particularly expect a thousand of lingams but yeah there are a few hundred.