This is a modest shrine on the Arabian Sea’s shoreline. It is located to the south of the Shree Mahabaleshwar Temple. To the left of Shree Mahabaleshwar Temple lies Shree Mahaganapati Temple. As one faces Shree Mahabaleshwar Temple, the Shree Mahaganapati Temple is to the right and is one of the most famous temples to visit in Gokarna. Just a few kilometers away from Mahabaleshwar Temple lies the Maha Ganapati Temple, a notable temple with a 1.3-meter-high black stone idol of Lord Ganesha.
This temple is usually visited before heading to the larger Mahabaleshwar Shrine. The architecture of this temple is very beautiful. It was made to honour the fact that Lord Ganesha was able to take Ravana’s Atma Linga. This temple is a must-see for anyone who wants to find peace and quiet.
The main idol is little and upright, with short legs and a big belly, as is typical of Shree Mahaganapati. When devotees touch the idol, they get a peculiar feeling since it is highly vibrant and radiates strength. There is an impression that the idol is alive.
It is commonly believed that devotees who pay their respects at the temple experience a peculiar sensation when they touch the feet of the Mahaganpati idol located inside the temple. Following the abhishekam, a small pooja that the devotees perform. Devotees place ‘garika,’ or grass blades, on Ganesha’s idol. They are permitted to touch the dented head of the Shree Mahaganapati idol.
According to mythology, the dent was made when King Ravana, who had been tricked by Ganesha, struck Ganapati’s head hard with a rod. There is a mythological tale related to it. With a moving line, you may enter and exit this temple in less than ten minutes.
Timings
The temple is moderately crowded with pilgrims, most of them are from various states around the country. The temple is open to worshipers from 6 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. It reopens at 5 p.m. and remains open until 9 p.m.
The architecture of Maha Ganapati Temple
Inside the Maha Ganapati Temple are a number of awe-inspiring structures that will completely captivate you. The temple is located on the road, and various vendors sell flowers and incense to be presented to the Lord. As soon as you enter the temple, you will witness distinct lines of worshippers eager to pay their respects to the Lord.
The resonance of a hundred bells fills the temple hall, causing you to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. The Lord Ganesha idol is small and has a hole in its head.
Gokarna is historically and mythologically rich. Beautiful, well-known temples are located here, along with stories and legends about Atma Lingam, Shatashrunga mountain, Lord Shiva and Vishnu, and more. Visit these magnificent temples by staying at our resort in Gokarna.
Featured image credits: gokarnatourism.co.in
