Mahabaleswara Temple

This temple is the main pilgrim attraction of the temple town of Gokarna. This is a Shaiva pilgrimage site and is visited by hundreds of people every month. It is said that the Atmalinga brought here by Ravana got struck and he was unable to extract it. During his trial, the coverings of the atmalinga flew away to the temples of Murudeshwara, Gunavanteshwara and Shejjeshwara. After this, Ravana left the atmalinga here as it was Mahabala or very strong and the temple was established here. The idol inside the temple is said to be almost 15000 years old and is in a standing posture with two hands.