Sahasralinga, Sirsi Taluk, Uttara Kannada District

Yet another place visited during UttaraKannada itinerary in winter 2019. Here is a short post on Sahasralinga

21 December 2019

Sahasralinga is well known pilgrimage centre of Karnataka situated at Bhairumbe village in Sirsi Taluk of Uttara Kannada district. Bounded by thick forests, lying amidst the pristine Shalmala river, Sahasralinga lures devotees from various corners of Karnataka. Thousands of lingas are carved in boulders over the river and hence the name. It is quite spiritual to watch and spot the lingas here. 

Uttara Kannada is known for wondrous nature. Situated near Hulagola village of Sirsi Taluk, the ancient marvellous pilgrim place Sahasralinga lies in lap of nature. The shivalingas carved over the boulders of river is mesmerising sight for every pious person. Shivalinga is omnipresent here at Sahasralinga. You tend to spot shivalinga at every eye sight. It feels like the river performs continuous Abhisheka on shivalinga and thus rendering the water divine.

Here is translated version of script painted on walls.

Surrounded by unique flora-fauna, invaluable medicinal plants, Sahasralinga is excellent tourist location. Having mythological, religious and natural importance, Sahasralinga attracts pilgrims from distant places during Shivaratri & eclipse time.

The pilgrimage centre has importance from ancient times. It is believed that Shri Rama & Seeta had travelled to this place during Tretayuga. Also Pandavas during exile had installed shiva-lingas during sojourn here. Consequently, the shalmala river is also known with name DevaraHole and PandavaraHole.

Around 16th century AD, the local king Arasappa Nayaka at the behest of Swarnavalli Matha to overcome infertility is believed to have carved shiva lingas over the boulders of Shalmala river and performed pooja to these lingas. As a fruit of this effort, the king was blessed with progeny. Later from same dynasty King Sadashivaraya also believed to have carved additional shivalingas here. Apart from Shivalingas, one can spot Nandi sculptures also which were carved during the regime. The large bull sculpted out of river rock is one of primary attractions at Sahasralinga. 

The next attraction here is the hanging bridge constructed across the river to facilitate passage for village dwellers. Only 25 people are allowed to pass at a time due to limited capacity. However, we could see even bikers riding over the bridge.

When to visit

During winter season (from November to May). Monsoon season is not at all advisable due to brimming river. It would be impossible to spot ShivaLingas in turbulent weather and gushing water.

Route

Quite easy to visit from Sirsi. The GPS is quite accurate. Unfortunately the mobile signal is not available, hence I suggest you to fix the route in Sirsi and start the drive. At times, even GPS signal may be lost. Seek help of locals if you spot one :-) (sparse human presence in dense jungle).

One needs to take Sirsi-Yellapura route if travelling from Sirsi. Nominal parking fee is levied from visitors (guess Rs.20/- for cars)

From Sonda, an interior route for 4kms leads parking arena near hanging bridge. From here, its a short walk to actual spot. There is no parking fee here.

More than pictures, I have details in video. Please watch full length to feel the place