Coimbatore

Adiyogi Shiva Statue

Open Time : 6:00 am to 8:00 pm

Entry : Free

Address : Adiyogi - Isha Temple and Statue in Coimbatore, Booluvampatti, Tamil Nadu, India

Website : https://isha.sadhguru.org/en/center/consecrated-spaces/112-feet-adiyogi

Why to visit Adiyogi Shiva Statue

Adiyogi Shiva Statue is in the Velliangiri Mountains, surrounded by green farms. It is the world’s biggest bust statue of the famous Hindu deity Shiva. It is made entirely from 500 tonnes of steel and located in the Isha Yoga Complex, standing impressively at 112 feet tall. 

It is considered as a ritual to walk around the statue in a circular path (parikrama). People believe doing this around the statue of Adiyogi brings good luck and helps them achieve their goals. They often perform this parikrama in specific numbers, such as 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 12, or more, depending on what they wish for.

What to expect?

  • There is Yogeshwar Linga, placed right in front of the Adiyogi statue, holds great importance. It represents five main chakras within us and serves as a living symbol of spiritual energy. With the Yogeshwar Linga present, Adiyogi comes alive, allowing followers to connect with its power through offerings and respect.
  • At the Adiyogi Statue, there's a fantastic light and sound show called Adiyogi Divya Darshanam, a 3D laser display. Lasting for 14 minutes, it tells the tale of Adiyogi and explains yoga science, making it both fun and educational for everyone. The stunning light show with lasers gets beamed onto the Adiyogi statue, making it look incredible!
  • Joining Sadhguru for midnight meditation at Isha Centre is a major highlight at this location.
  • Geographically, the Adiyogi statue sits at 11 degrees north, creating a unique centrifugal force due to the Earth's tilt. Being at Isha Center on Mahashivratri at midnight is perfect due to its special latitude, enhancing the experience of the celebration.
  • Sadhguru delivers speeches, and the Adiyogi Divya Darshanam takes place during this period. To secure seats, visitors need to book according to their preferences, and the costs may differ. For booking details, check the official website (link above).
  • Apart from this, there are holy water bodies of Suraj Kund (for men) and Chandrakund (for women) where you can take a bath.
  • You can take a traditional bullock cart ride to the yoga centre for only 10 rupees per person.
  • There are beautiful temples of Dhyanalinga and Linga Bhairavi in the Yoga center. You can meditate at the Dhyanalinga temple in the presence of the 13 ft high Lingam, which is in a 33 ft high dome.
  • No phones or cameras are allowed inside; therefore, use the free cloakroom service to keep your belongings safe.

Architecture 

  • The statue stands impressively tall at 34 meters (112 ft), stretches 45 meters in length (147 ft), and spans 25 meters in width (82 ft).
  • This Adiyogi Shiva statue is the official Guinness World Record holder for the biggest bust sculpture ever made!
  • The 112-foot height of the Adiyogi Shiva statue isn't just random - it holds a special meaning in yoga! The number 112 represents both the 112 different paths someone can take to reach enlightenment (moksha) and the 112 chakras, or energy centres, believed to exist within the human body.

The best time to visit

For the ideal visit to the Adiyogi Statue, choose the winter and early spring months (October to March). As days can get hot, plan your visit in the early morning or evening to appreciate the moonlit view of Lord Shiva.

Timing and entry fees

  • Visiting Hours: 6:00 am to 8:00 pm
  • Entry Fees: Free
  • Dhyanalinga Visiting Hours: 6:00 am to 8:00 pm
  • Linga Bhairavi Visiting Hours: 6:20 am to 1:20 pm & 4.20 pm to 8.20 pm
  • Free Yoga Session Timing: 9.30 am to 4 pm (every 30 mins) 
  • Adiyogi Divya Darshanam: 7 pm
  • Suryakund (Gents) Timing: 7.30 am to 8.00 pm
  • Chandrakund (Ladies) Timing: 7.30 am to 8.00 pm

Nearby places

  • Kovai Kondattam Amusement Park [19.6 km]
  • Perur Patteeshwarar Temple [23 km]
  • Marudhamalai Murugan Temple [24.7 km] 
  • Vaidehi Falls [8.4 km]

Distance from Coimbatore International Airport: 42.1 km
Distance from Coimbatore Junction: 29.6 km

FAQ on Adiyogi Shiva Statue

What are the nearby attractions close to Adiyogi Statue?

The nearby attractions include Kovai Kondattam Amusement Park (19.6 km away), Perur Patteeshwarar Temple (23 km away), Marudhamalai Murugan Temple (24.7 km away), and Vaidehi Falls (8.4 km away).

How to reach Adiyogi Statue?

The statue is in the Dhyanalinga complex. To get there by public transport, take a state bus from the Gandhipuram bus stand; it runs every 45 minutes to the complex gates. From the Dhyanalinga temple, it's a 7-minute walk to the sculpture. If you prefer not to walk, there are modified bullock carts and open rickshaws to take you to Adiyogi.

When is the ideal time to visit the Adiyogi Statue?

The Adiyogi Shiva Statue and complex are open throughout the year. It's ideal to visit during the cooler months from October to March or during festive times like Maha Shivratri for special celebrations.

Do I need to pay an entrance fee to visit the Adiyogi Shiva Statue?

No, there is no entry fee for the Adiyogi Shiva Statue; it is open to the public without any charge.

Are there guided tours offered at the Adiyogi Shiva Statue complex?

Yes, visitors interested in exploring more about the statue and the Isha Yoga Center may find guided tours available. For the latest information on guided tours, it's advisable to inquire directly at the centre.

Special Tip

If you bring your car, there's a parking charge of 30 rupees. On your way out, you'll spot a few small shops. Take a moment to buy souvenirs or grab a drink. Don't forget to treat yourself to Neera, also called Palm Nectar – it's extracted from coconut trees and is sweet and translucent.

By Mehrosh Shamim

Disclaimer: 

More Travel Tips from Coimbatore