Maha Ganapati Temple, Karnataka

According to legend, when mighty Ravan was carrying the Shivalinga to Lanka after getting it from Lord Shiva, he was at Gokarna and asked a boy (Lord Ganesha in disguise) to hold the Linga so that he can complete his daily rituals and informed the boy that the Linga should not be placed on the land. But Lord Ganesha, in disguise as a boy kept the Linga on the earth and Ravan could not lift it. Angered Ravana take stone and hits Ganesha on head. So the Ganesha statue here has a hole one top of the head. The pilgrims must seek the blessing of Lord Ganesha before visiting the Mahabaleshwara Temple.

Maha Ganapati temple ambience is calm and the presence of divine entity can be felt at every corner of the temple. The serenity of the place helps to rejuvenate and calm the inner soul of the individuals visiting the place. The artistic design and the marvellous structure inside the temple are also worth appreciating. The Maha Ganapati temple is truly a wonderfully fascinating one.

It is advisable to understand the local custom without hurting the religious sentiments of the locals. One must wear decent attire while visiting the Maha Ganapati temple. There is also an amazing beach near the temple which is also worth visiting. August to December is the best time to visit the place. The Mahashivaratri celebration is held with great grandeur surrounding both the temples. There are regular trains to Gokarna from all the major cities of Karnataka.