Murudeshwar, one of the most magical coastal towns and the heart of Karnataka tourism industry, is the perfect destination to avoid crowds. Along with its peaceful lands, there are multiple things to do in Murudeshwar, like exploring scenic beaches, visiting sacred temples and mosques, and enjoying luxury on a budget.

If it’s your first time exploring the quaint, spiritual town of Murudeshwar, here is a list of the 10 top places to visit in Murudeshwar 2025 to begin your year by recharging to achieve all your goals!

Get Blessings at the Sacred Shri Murudeshwar Temple

One of the most popular things to do in Murudeshwar, which draws hundreds of pilgrims and tourists yearly, is the Shri Murudeshwar Temple. It’s mainly known for housing the second tallest 123-foot-tall Lord Shiva statue worldwide! The Temple is an architectural marvel, surrounded by the Arabian Sea on three sides, so you can admire the spectacular sunset views behind the gigantic statue.

Make time to attend the holy poojas at Murudeshwar Temple, and grab a free meal from the Aana Prasad Hall on your visit. Don’t forget to ascend to the 18th floor of the Raja Gopura, a towering building offering unbeatable views of the statue. Every inch of the Gopura is crafted carefully, containing over 100 carvings of Gods, Goddesses, and other spiritual beings on its façade. The Gopura also houses the holy Atma Linga, one of the five in India. The Temple is known for its spirituality and wish-fulfilling powers. Ensure you stick to the dress code and leave your shoes behind before you step in.

Before you hop on a cheap flight to Murudeshwar, read: Murudeshwar trip ideas: Everything you must know before you go.

Enjoy Water Sports at Murudeshwar Beach

Nothing calms the mind better than a relaxing swim at the beach with the sunset! Murudeshwar Beach offers exactly this, with a clear Arabian Sea on one side and breathtaking landscape views of the Western Ghats standing opposite. It stretches for 2 to 3 km and offers shallow water areas for beginners to swim.

Trying out adventurous water sports, including banana boat riding, water skiing, speed boat riding, and much more, is one of the most heart-thrilling things to do in Murudeshwar! Even though Murudeshwar tourism is defined by silence, the bustling flea markets, stalls, and eateries add a fun touch to your evening on the beach.

Scuba Dive in the Clear Waters of Netrani Island

Off the coast of Murudeshwar lies the only heart-shaped Island of Netrani in India, a paradise for snorkelling and diving and one of the best things to do in Murudeshwar 2025! Since vibrant corals surround the Island, you will find a bunch of rare aquatic creatures, including eels, clownfish, spotted sharks, and turtles while swimming underwater. Netrani’s waters are almost as clear as the Maldives, offering a clear view of up to 25 to 30 feet deep, providing an exciting escape on a budget!

You can hop on a boat to get to the Island, which also includes a scuba diving experience with underwater pictures, starting at Rs.5,000, depending on if you book a private or group experience. Netrani Island is one of the places to visit near Murudeshwar and Gokarna.

Admire the Statue Park & Museum telling the History of Murudeshwar Temple

The Temple is not only a sensation because of its towering statue but also because it was constructed based on the legendary story of Ravan and Lord Vishnu. The park and the Museum of the Temple tell this story through multiple sculptures, and visiting them is one of the best things to do in Murudeshwar after visiting the Temple. You can see the life-like statues of Lord Ganesh, Kali Mata, and many other Gods and Goddesses in the cave-like museum by paying a small fee of Rs.10.

The park offers the perfect viewpoint to admire the sun setting behind the Lord Shiva statue and enjoy a small picnic in the quiet space, making it one of the most serene tourist places to visit in Murudeshwar.

A Budgeted Luxurious Stay at Benzy Palace Resort

Finding luxury accommodation on a budget can feel like looking for a needle in a haystack, but not at Murudeshwar. Benzy Palace Resort, Murudeshwar, offers the most holistic experience, from relaxing spas and swimming pools to chill-in, lavish dining facilities and the most spacious rooms on a budget. It is at the top of the list of the best places to stay in Murudeshwar, as it is within walking distance of all Murudeshwar sightseeing attractions. Being affordable, it’s also excellent for visitors planning to explore Murudeshwar and Gokarna for a day or two needing a place to stay.

It is also at the top of the cheap hotels in Murudeshwar for planning a wedding, either in one of the modern halls or under the stars in the lush gardens. You can book cottages to fit your whole family or smaller rooms, perfect for couples. Click here to find the best deals on Benzy Palace Resort, Murudeshwar.

Feel like a Raja at Murudeshwar Fort

For a change of scene, the Murudeshwar Fort should be at the top of your list of things to do in Murudeshwar, especially for history buffs, since it has stood tall since the 15th century! Constructed during the Vijayanagara period, the fort is a highlight of the Murudeshwar trip packages. Every part of the fort’s facade has the most intricate carving details, offering a breathtaking view of the Western Ghats and Arabian Sea.

The fort still houses relics from the period of Tipu Sultan’s rule and is surrounded by lush gardens. It’s only a 4-minute walk from the Murudeshwar Temple, so it offers unobstructed views of the Shiva statue as well! If you visit during the best time to visit Murudeshwar, you can opt for this location to admire the statue since the Gopura might be overcrowded.

Also read: Travel to Murudeshwar: How to Reach by Flights, Rail, Bus, Car.

Dip in the Refreshing Apsarakonda Falls

If you’re exploring Murudeshwar in the summer, one of the best things to do in Murudeshwar is to swim in the pond of the Apsarakonda Falls! Its name translates to the pond of angels because of its natural beauty, so much so that it’s believed angels bathe here! The Apsarakonda Falls are 22 km away from Murudeshwar and have the most flowering gardens at the top that captivate the hearts of all nature lovers.

The pond has a depth of two to seven feet, depending on your travel season, so it’s one of the best experiences to take in Murudeshwar for kids and those who don’t know how to swim.

Feel the Bliss at Idagunji Ganapathi Temple

Visitors travelling on a sacred pilgrimage and looking for things to do in Murudeshwar must explore the Idagunji Ganapathi Temple. The majestic Temple stands along the banks of the Sharavathi River, attracting more than a million pilgrims yearly. What makes it so famous is that the Temple is believed to be the place where Lord Ganesha used to rest, so despite its simplicity, it carries deep meaning for visitors.

Idagunji Ganapathi Temple is a 24-minute drive from Murudeshwar, located in the town of Idagunji, which you can explore with all-inclusive Murudeshwar tour packages.

Beat Your Fears at Yana Caves

Down for a little adventure? The prerequisite to feeling great calmness on a trip is an exciting climb to snatch away your worries so you can focus on moving forward. You can enjoy this delightful experience while trekking for 1.5 km through the forest to get to the sacred Yana Caves! Visiting Yana Caves is one of the best things to do in Murudeshwar since it houses a holy Atma Linga!

You’ll also get to admire the towering spikes of the monoliths made of limestone rocks, known as the Mohini and Bhairaveshwara Shikara, at the base of which the Lingam stands. The attraction is open from 8 am to 6 pm, and you must wear comfortable sneakers to climb without injury. The Yana Caves is one of the unpopular tourist places to visit in Murudeshwara, a 2-hour drive away, guaranteeing a fantastic trek experience.

Shop Like a Local at Murudeshwar Market

The local markets at Murudeshwar might not dazzle you at first glance, but the beautiful hand-made jewellery, sculptures, textiles, and other craft items will capture your heart. These make for the perfect souvenirs for yourself or your family to keep the memory of your trip alive for a lifetime! Shopping locally is also an excellent way to keep the unbeatable craftwork business of small artists thriving, so this is undoubtedly one of the top rates activities in Murudeshwar.

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FAQs- Things to do in Murudeshwar

How to spend a day in Murudeshwar?
You can begin your day at Murudeshwar by taking blessings from the Temple before relaxing for a while at Benzy Palace & Resort. You can either add a visit to the sparkling beach, Netrani Island, fort, temples, or the Murudeshwar markets in the order you prefer, depending on the length of your stay.

What is special in Murudeshwar?
The most special attraction in Murudeshwar is the towering Lord Shiva statue at the Murudeshwar Temple, at 123 feet.

How many days are enough for Murdeshwar?
You can explore most attractions in Murudeshwar within 2 to 3 days.

What is famous in Murudeshwar to buy?
Murudeshwar is known for its hand-made jewellery, textiles, and sculptures which are a must-buy.

Is food served in Murudeshwar Temple?
Yes, food is served in Murudeshwar Temple in the Anna Prasada hall.

Which month is best for Murudeshwar?
Murudeshwar has the best temperatures in the winter, from October to February.

What are the darshan timings at Murudeshwar Temple?
The timings for darshan at Murudeshwar Temple are from 6:30 am to noon, and from 3:30 pm to 7:30 pm.

Is saree compulsory in Murudeshwar Temple?
Saree is not compulsory at Murudeshwar Temple. However, women must wear modest Indian clothing like salwar kameez, churidar with dupatta, etc.

What is the myth of Murudeshwar Temple?
The myth follows the story of Ravana, who received the Atma Linga for his devotion to Lord Shiva. Since the Gods worried about its misuse, they sent Lord Vishu to distract Ravana and kept the Atma Linga on the ground, which led to it being transfixed there. When Ravana tried to pick it up a piece broke off, which landed at the location where the Murudeshwar Temple stands.

Which month is best for Murudeshwar?
The best time to visit Murudeshwar is between October and February.