Weather: 18 - 30°C
Tags: Landmark, Spiritual, Culture
Category: Religious, Heritage
Timings: 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Time Required: 2 - 3 hrs
Entry Fee: Free

Adiyogi Shiva Statue, Coimbatore Overview

The Adiyogi Shiva Statue in Coimbatore is an awe-inspiring monument located at the foothills of the Velliangiri Mountains in the Western Ghats. This colossal statue, standing at an impressive 112 feet, is dedicated to Lord Shiva, known as the first yogi and the originator of yoga. Crafted from 500 tonnes of steel, it holds the title of being the world’s largest bust sculpture. It has earned a place in the Guinness World Records as the "largest bust sculpture" with dimensions of 34.3 meters tall, 45 meters long, and 7.62 meters wide.

Located within the Isha Yoga Complex, the statue was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 24, 2017. Designed by Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, the founder of Isha Foundation, the statue is a symbol of yoga and spiritual awakening. The statue’s name, Adiyogi, refers to Shiva as the first teacher of yoga, inspiring millions worldwide.

What Makes the Statue Unique

The design of the statue is not just artistic; it carries deep symbolic meaning. It represents moksha (liberation) and embodies the 112 possibilities to attain liberation, as described in yogic traditions. The statue is situated at the base of a shrine that encourages visitors to meditate, chant, and reflect. This is a non-religious, spiritual space that welcomes people from all walks of life, irrespective of their beliefs.

At the base of the statue lies the Yogeshwar Linga, consecrated during a sacred ceremony. It symbolizes the heartless yogi, a being beyond emotional attachments, embodying the transcendence of the material world. The Isha Foundation also has plans to erect similar statues in Varanasi, Mumbai, and Delhi.

Besides the statue, the complex houses the famous Dhyanalinga temple and hosts a variety of cultural programs, yoga sessions, and community events. Visitors can also enjoy traditional South Indian cuisine at the on-site cafeteria. The space is always alive with tourists and devotees, offering a tranquil yet vibrant atmosphere.

How to Reach Adiyogi Shiva Statue

The Adiyogi Shiva Statue is located within the Isha Yoga Complex, near the Dhyanalinga Temple.

  • By Public Transport: You can take a state-run bus from Gandhipuram bus stand, which operates every 45 minutes and takes you directly to the gates of the complex. From there, it's just a 7-minute walk to the statue.

  • By Private Transport: For a more comfortable experience, you can hire a cab or auto-rickshaw from anywhere in Coimbatore. Once you arrive at the Isha Yoga Complex, there are modified bullock carts or open rickshaws available to take you directly to the statue.