Finding peace in the bustling city is impossible, but not at Murudeshwar, offering the perfect blend of spirituality and unbeatable views of nature in Karnataka! It mainly draws visitors for its unique coastal setting, home to the second tallest Shiva statue in the world! If you’re looking to combine a pilgrimage with exciting water activities and the most breathtaking views, knowing about the places to visit in Murudeshwar should be your priority.

Murudeshwar is usually overlooked hidden in a small nook of Karnataka. Let’s bring this hidden gem to your travel spotlight with a list of 10 popular and trending places in Murudeshwar in 2025 because everyone needs a change of scenery!

Shri Murudeshwar Temple

Standing majestically atop Kanduka Hill, the Shri Murudeshwar Temple is one of the top sights in Murudeshwar, known for its 123-foot-tall Shiva statue. The statue is popular for being the second tallest Shiva, after the Statue of Belief in Rajasthan, and the fourth tallest statue overall in the world. It’s one of the most religious places to visit in Murudeshwar, surrounded by water on three sides, which only adds to its awe-inspiring beauty.

The Shri Murudeshwar Temple also has a 20-storey tall Raja Gopuram, which you can ascend by elevator or staircase to get a better view of the towering Shiva statue. The Temple is dedicated to Sri Mridesi Langa and is covered with delicate carvings, offering small surprises as you explore. Visitors must ensure they follow the dress code of Shri Murudeshwar Temple and leave their shoes outside before stepping onto its sacred grounds.

Timings: morning 6 am to 1 pm, and evening 3 to 8.15 pm.

Want to know more about the dress code and darshan timings? Read: Murudeshwar Temple.

Murudeshwar Beach

One of the cleanest beaches in India, Murudeshwar Beach is a must-add to your places to visit in Murudeshwar list, stretching along 2 to 3 km with shallow waters, inviting even beginner swimmers. It’s a 4-minute walk from the Shri Murudeshwar Temple and perfect to explore with all-inclusive Murudeshwar tour packages! The beach has hills as its scenic background and connects to the Arabian Sea, offering the most spectacular and colourful sunset views.

Besides admiring the beach, you’ll also get to engage in thrilling water sports, including snorkelling, banana boat rides, water skiing, speed boat riding, and much more. It’s the perfect spot to marvel at the massive Shiva Statue of the Murudeshwar Temple peeking atop the surrounding hills. The beach has many food stalls, so don’t forget to grab a snack while you admire the scenes! You should definitely explore Murudeshwar Beach between October and February, which is the best time to visit Murudeshwar.

Murudeshwar Fort

Standing tall since the 15th century, the Murudeshwar Fort was constructed during the Vijayanagara period and has the most delicate architectural carvings included in the Murudeshwar trip packages.  It is well-maintained and renovated by Tipu Sultan, the ruler of Mysore. The Murudeshwar Fort is as remarkable as any Disney Palace, offering a heart-capturing view of the Western Ghats and the sparkling Arabian Sea.

It’s one of the best historical places to visit in Murudeshwar and a refreshing break from the religious sites and beaches. It’s a 4-minute walk from Murudeshwar Temple and offers an elevated view of the statue. The ancient fort still houses relics from the rule of Tipu Sultan and is surrounded by a quiet garden that enhances its beauty ten times, making it one of the best tourist places to visit in Murudeshwara.

Timings: from 8:00 am to 6:30 pm

Statue Park

Surrounding the Shiva Statue are lush lawns decorated with many ancient sculptures telling the history of the Temple and the story of Mahabharata. These life-size statues include Lord Ganesha taking the Aatma Lingan from Raavana and a massive chariot statue of Lord Krishna and Arjun.

You’ll also spot ancient statues of sages meditating and an eye-catching Surya statue. The park is free to explore and offers a close-up view of the massive Shiva statue, making it one of the best Murudeshwar tourism spots. The Statue Park is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Murudeshwar.

If you’re looking for places to stay in Murudeshwar, the Benzy Palace & Resort is your best option, which is just a drive away from the most popular places to visit in Murudeshwar mentioned on this list and provides a holistic experience in the arms of nature, with all the possible amenities and services you need! Click here to find the best deals on Benzy Palace Resort, Murudeshwar, one of the best cheap hotels in Murudeshwar.

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

Jamia Masjid

Located in Bhatkal, the Jamia Masjid, a mosque with a sparkling golden dome, attracts hundreds of pilgrims yearly. It is within a 20-minute drive from the popular places to visit in Murudeshwar. Jamia Masjid can accommodate up to 10,000 visitors at once.

It’s also popularly known as the Chinnadapalli, translating to Golden Mosque. This majestic structure is believed to have been standing since 1447, as an 851 Hijri inscription carving was discovered at the location. The mosque you can see today on a visit was reconstructed in 1972 after the original structure was taken down in 1966. It is one of the major attractions considering Karnataka tourism, as it’s one of the eight oldest mosques in Jamia Masjid. If you’re exploring the mosque at Bhatkal, don’t forget to take a trip to the serene Jali beach and ancient lighthouse, offering a splendid view of the landscape from a height.

Netrani Island

India’s proud heart-shaped Netrani Island, also known as Pigeon Island, is one of the best places to visit in Murudeshwar off the coast! It’s a scuba diving heaven in Karnataka, offering views of colourful corals that hide many fish species, including eels, triggerfish, butterfly fish, etc. Divers also claim to have spotted sharks and turtles around the area.

The waters surrounding Netrani Island are so clear you can see 25 to 30 meters below before diving in, providing a great scuba diving experience!

Scuba diving timings: 7.30 am to 5 pm.

Apsarakonda Falls

At a distance of 22 km from Murudeshwar is the beautiful Apsarakonda Falls in Gokarna, which gets its name from the belief that angels shower here because of its elegant beauty and calming ambience. The falls are hidden behind the beach, and perfect, wild gardens at the top, offering the most dazzling view of the sunset on the beach! Make it a point to explore the lush gardens, as they’re famed to be much more beautiful than the waterfall.

It is one of the best places to visit in Murudeshwar, with a shallow pond, ranging from a depth of two to seven feet, depending on the season, and is perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day. The Forest Department maintains the location, so you must pay a minimum fee to access the pond.

Timings: 6 am to 6 pm

Yana Caves

Within a 2-hour drive from Murudeshwar is every adventurer’s paradise! The Yana Caves is a sacred spot with two majestic monoliths on either side. The story of the Yana caves is based on the tale of Lord Vishu appearing to Brahmasura as Mohini, which caused him to turn himself to stone and this phenomenon turned the caves a blackish colour.

To get to the caves, you’ll have to endure a short trek of 1.5 km through the forest and climb a few steps that will get you to the peak. When you finally get to the base of the cave, you’ll be greeted by an ancient Lingam, continuously bathed by the gentle streams. From this point, you’ll be urged to take off your shoes, as the cave stands behind the Temple. The Yana Caves hold as much mystery as the many brilliant places to visit in Murudeshwar. Unlike other things to do in Murudeshwar, the best time to explore the Yana Caves would be in the rainy season.

Timings: 6 am to 6 pm

Mirjan Fort

One of the biggest architectural masterpieces just a drive away from Murudeshwar is the ancient Mirjan Fort, standing tall since the 16th century. It’s a historical location, having four entrances and other secret spaces, including moats, canals, and passageways. Most visitors flock to Mirjan Fort to admire the entrancing spectacle of the Agnanishi River and the surrounding natural habitat from the watch towers of the fort.

The fort is easy to locate, considering it stands on the NH 66 Highway you will pass along while getting to Murudeshwar if you book car rental services. The Mirjan Fort pays reverence to the brilliant woman rulers of the Indian dynasty, as it was constructed under the reign of the Queen of Geroppa, namely Chennai Bhairavi Devi.

Timings: 8 am to 6 pm

Murudeshwar Market

Since Murudeshwar is a bustling pilgrim spot, the markets here are no less than a wonderland and one of the top rated activities in Murudeshwar, offering religious souvenirs, handicraft décor, and hand-crafted Rudraksha jewellery. You can also buy religious statues to take back home while exploring the market.

As per the Murudeshwar travel guide, every piece of art at the Murudeshwar Market is as beautiful as the places to visit in Murudeshwar, so it’s not recommended to haggle with the locals, as the tourist crowd is their only means of livelihood.

Also read: Experiences you can have in Murudeshwar

So, when are you planning your next trip to the tranquil land of Murudeshwar? If you’ve already visited the location, you can also book online visa services for 180+ countries and go in search of meaning at spiritual destinations worldwide at an affordable price!

FAQs- Places to Visit in Murudeshwar

How to spend a day in Murudeshwar?
You must begin the day with a visit to the iconic Murudeshwar Temple and see the massive Shiva Statue. Spend the day relaxing in the luxurious spa or swimming in the pool at Benzy Palace & Resort before heading out to the Murudeshwar beach to admire the sunset.

What is special in Murudeshwar?
The Murudeshwar Temple, with the second tallest Shiva statue in the world, is the most special place to visit.

Can I wear jeans in Murudeshwar Temple?
No, jeans are not allowed in the Murudeshwar Temple. Men are expected to wear traditional Indian clothing, including Dhotis, while women must wear a churidar or saree.

What is famous in Murudeshwar to buy?
Carved pottery, handmade jewellery, and textiles are some of the famous things to buy in Murudeshwar.

Is food served in Murudeshwar Temple?
Yes, you can get food at Anna Prasada Hall of the Temple between 12 pm and 2 pm and 7 to 9 pm.

How much time to spend in Murudeshwar?
You can explore most attractions in Murudeshwar in a day.

How much is the boat ride from Murudeshwar to Netrani Island?
The boat rides from Murudeshwar to Netrani Island cost anywhere between Rs. 1,500 and Rs. 3,000, depending if you book a private or shared boat ride. Most rides also include scuba diving expenses.

What are the darshan timings at Murudeshwar Temple?
The darshan timings at Murudeshwar Temple are between 6 am and 12 pm and in the evening from 3 to 8:15 pm.

How to plan Murudeshwar and Gokarna?
Plan a week-long trip and begin with exploring the popular attractions in Gokarna, including Apsarakonda Falls and Yana Caves, and then the beautiful temple and beach in Murudeshwar.

Which month is better to visit Murudeshwar?
Murudeshwar has the best weather from October to February.

How much is a taxi from Murudeshwar to Gokarna?
A taxi ride from Murudeshwar to Gokarna can cost you anywhere between Rs. 1,200 and Rs. 2,500.

Which comes first, Gokarna or Murudeshwar?
Gokarna comes before Murudeshwar.