The short answer
Parshvanatha Basadi (Chandragiri): what visitors should know first
Yes, if you have time inside the enclosure. The 18-foot image is the tallest on the hill and the pillar outside is visible from some way off. Allow fifteen to twenty minutes and see it after the Chavundaraya Basadi.
History and context
The story behind Parshvanatha Basadi (Chandragiri)
Wikipedia lists the basadi as 12th century and notes the monolithic Parshvanatha of 18 ft and a manastambha. A heritage account says that no records name the founder or date, so treat both with caution.
Useful facts
Parshvanatha Basadi (Chandragiri) facts at a glance
- Location
- Chandragiri enclosure, Shravanabelagola
- Faith
- Jainism (Digambara)
- Deity/dedication
- Parshvanatha, 23rd Tirthankara
- Visitor note
- Footwear off; leave space for worshippers
- Image height
- About 18 ft, tallest on Chandragiri
Why it matters
Why Parshvanatha Basadi (Chandragiri) is worth your time
Parshvanatha is one of the most widely worshipped Tirthankaras, recognisable by the snake hood. The large image here shows that Chandragiri is not only an early site but one where later communities added new, ambitious work.
It also helps you compare sizes. The Gommateshwara across the valley is about 17 metres; the Parshvanatha is much smaller but a major piece in its own setting, and that comparison tells you how the two hills divide their roles between monumental and intimate worship.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The 18-foot image
The tallest Tirthankara image on the hill, with a serpent hood above.
- 02
The manastambha
A tall free-standing pillar in front of the temple, visible across the enclosure.
- 03
Scale comparisons
Seeing this and then the Vindhyagiri statue gives a clear sense of scale.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Find the temple by its pillar, a tall manastambha standing in front of the building that Wikipedia puts at roughly 20 metres high. Look at it from the front, and then step into the temple to see the image it faces.
The main image shows Parshvanatha, the 23rd Tirthankara, about 18 feet high and the tallest on the hill. Sources describe the figure standing, with a seven-hooded serpent canopy over the head. The scale is easiest to appreciate when you stand at the feet and look up.
Leave space for worshippers, who often come here specifically for this image. Wikipedia places the temple in the 12th century, but a heritage account says that no information is available as to when or by whom this shrine was founded, so treat the date as uncertain.
Plan with confidence
Visit as a guest, not a spectator.
- Look at the pillar before going in
- Leave space for worshippers
- Ask before photographing
- Remove footwear and avoid leather
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Chandragiri hill enclosure, Shravanabelagola
- Time needed
- 15 to 20 minutes
- Best time
- Morning, between November and February
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- It is inside the hilltop enclosure, so the Chandragiri climb comes first. Inside, the ground is mostly level but uneven, and there is limited seating.
- Tickets and access
- Covered by the Chandragiri visit. Remove footwear, dress modestly and ask before photographing the image; leather is commonly discouraged.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Parshvanatha Basadi (Chandragiri)
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Prices are live on the partner site.
Travelling with parents?
It is inside the hilltop enclosure, so the Chandragiri climb comes first. Inside, the ground is mostly level but uneven, and there is limited seating.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
How tall is the Parshvanatha image?
About 18 feet according to Wikipedia and heritage accounts, making it the tallest on Chandragiri.
Who founded the temple?
No firm record is cited; Wikipedia places it in the 12th century but a heritage account says no information is available.
Is it open daily?
The Chandragiri enclosure is open in daytime; confirm timings locally.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
