Lonely Planet

Karkala Travel Guide

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Karkala a small town is one of the best kept secrets of the Western Ghats and a commendable symbol of religious tolerance.

One of the primary attractions of the town is the gigantic statue of Bahubali or Gomateshwara which is the second largest statue in the world (the first being at Shravanabelagola). A 25 feet tall Brahmayaksha Mahastambha or column of honour has been erected outside the temple and dates to 1436 A.D. The statue is situated on the peak of a granite hill was erected by the King Veerapandya Bhairava Raja of Kalasa-Karkala Kingdom in 1432 AD on the advice of his preceptor Lalitakirti.

Attur Church
Attur Church

When you are in Karkala a visit to the Attur Church, a minor basilica, that has a beautiful statue of statue of St. Lawrence is a must. Located on the outskirts of the town, this is a church that is thronged by people of all faiths.

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