A Coastal Morning Enveloped in Silence and Sand

Certain locations possess an ability to balance two opposing energies — peace and excitement, piety and exploration. Murudeshwar, on the Karnataka coastline, provided just that. My journey started with a determination to catch a glimpse of the famous Shiva statue I had always only viewed photographs of. But I departed with something more than anticipated — experiences created both underwater and beneath the aura of divinity.

Waking Up to the Sound of the Sea

I booked a small, sea-facing homestay located off the main road. It was not luxurious, but it provided me with the view I had desired: the Arabian Sea rolling out ahead for miles. I had booked the stay through cheQin.ai by just posting what I desired — somewhere quiet, close to the beach and the temple. I could hear the quiet murmur of waves and the scent of salt in the air by morning.

The Giant Who Guarded the Coast

I started early for the Murudeshwar Temple. The roads were just waking up, with tea stalls opening and locals going towards the temple compound. The temple itself lies on a small hill, and there are steps leading to a sanctum where the morning aarti had already commenced.

In the background of the temple lies the giant Shiva statue, one of the world’s tallest statues. It is difficult to put into words how it feels to stand before something so massive. His serene face, imposing stature, and the shine of sun on the sea in the background gave the entire location a sense of grounding yet infinity.

There were people of all backgrounds — some bringing flowers, some simply sitting on the steps quietly. I sat among them for a bit, allowing the chant and the ocean wind blend. That moment didn’t need words. Just quiet.

A Quick Bite Before the Dive

Following temple darshan, I had a light breakfast — steaming idlis with coconut chutney at a roadside stall nearby. The vendor beamed when I told him that I was going scuba diving. Netrani Island, he said, is another type of temple.

Sailing Toward Netrani

By mid-morning, I was on a boat sailing towards Netrani Island. It is 19 kilometers off the coast and heart-shaped from above. The ride was rough at moments, but the scenery was breathtaking. We sailed past fishing boats, birds skimming the waves, and the ever-widening ocean.

When we arrived at the diving location, I was excited and scared. We received a brief orientation by the instructors, and then individually, we went down below the water.

Underwater Stillness and Surprise

Scuba diving there was nothing I’ve ever experienced. It was still under the water — no noises, only motion. I saw groups of shimmering fish, coral reefs, and even a sea turtle passing by. The weightlessness, the colors, and feeling as if I was floating in a world that is outside of noise — it all made me forget anything else.

For those 30 minutes, it felt like I was exploring a secret that the ocean usually keeps hidden. I came back to the surface breathless but full — like I had touched something very old and very alive.

A Walk and a View to Remember

Back on land after the dive and boat tour, I walked slowly on the beach. It was evening, and the huge Shiva statue in the distance caught the sunset’s golden light. Kids were playing, a few locals were selling shells and snacks, and the waves kept their beat.

I sat for a bit, just observing. Sometimes the highlight of a trip is not the most thrilling activity — it’s the few moments of contemplation after everything quiets down.

Simple Meals and New Friends

Dinner was at a small seaside restaurant that had fresh fish and rice. I met two other travelers who were also off diving. We did some swapping of tales, food, and laughter about the day’s adventure. We were not from the same origin, but the sea had brought us together, albeit for one meal.

What Murudeshwar Left Me With

When I got back to my room that evening, the sea noise was louder — perhaps because the town had become quieter. I remained beside the window, gazing at the moonlight on the waves, and reflected on all that I had observed and experienced.

Murudeshwar gave me more than a spiritual stopover or an adrenaline-pumping plunge. It provided me with balance. Half the day was based on prayer, tradition, and serenity. The second half plunged into the unknown, swimming in wonder and surprise.

This town taught me that you don’t always have to take a choice between slowing down and venturing out of your comfort zone. Sometimes the best vacations provide for both.

If you are ever on the west coast of India, then you must stop at Murudeshwar. Witness the sunrise from the temple, plunge into the deep blue, and let land and sea teach you how peace and adventure coexist harmoniously.

Meditation Above, Coral Below: Finding Balance in Murudeshwar