Mukti Sthala

Udupi Krishna Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

February 14, 2023, Sasidhar Darla 6 Comments Filed Under: Karnataka Temples Tagged With: Krishna Temples, Mukti Sthala

Udupi Krishna Temple (one of the Seven Mukti Sthalas of Karnataka), dedicated to Lord Krishna is in the town of Udupi, Karnataka. The temple complex is also a Matha where the priests live and perform their daily duties. Vaishnavite Saint Madhavacharya, somewhere during the 13th century constructed the temple.

What are the timings of Udupi Krishna Temple?

Udupi Krishna temple can be visited from 5 am till 11 am in the morning and then from 5 pm till 9 pm. However, the timings change during festivals and other special occasions. Here are the timings of Udupi Krishna Temple:

Ritual	Timings
Temple opening hours	4:30 am
Nirmalya Visarjana Puja	4:50 am
Ushakala Puja	6 am
Akshya patra-Gopuja	6:15 am
Vishwaroopa Darshana	6:20 am
Panchamritabhisheka	6:30 am
Udvartana Puja	7:00 am
Kalasha Puja	7:30 am
Teertha Puja	7:40 am
Alankara Puja	8:30 am
Avasara Sanakadi Puja	10:30 am
Mahapuja	11:00 am
Chamara Seva	7:00 pm
Ratripuja	7:30 pm
Rangapuja	7:40 pm
Utsava	8:00 pm
Thottilu Puja	8:30 pm
Kolalu Seva	8:40 pm
Ekanta Seva	8:50 pm

Food being served at Udupi Krishna Temple

What is the significance of Udupi Krishna Temple?

The significance of Udupi Krishna Temple is that it is one of the seven Mukti Sthalas of Karnataka. The other six are Kollur, Subramanya, Kumbhashi, Kodeshwara, Sankaranarayana, and Gokarna. These places are together the Parashurama Kshetras. Devotees believe that these Temples were built on land of Parashurama from the sea.

The actual darshan of the Lord is through a grilled window known as the Navagraha Kitiki or as the Kanakana Kindi (Kanaka’s window). The window has nine squares, each dedicated to the nine planets. Also, the window is covered on all sides with silver plating with carvings depicting the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu.

The main idol of Lord Krishna shows him as a small boy holding a churning rod on the right hand and rope on the left hand. This representation of Lord Krishna can be seen nowhere in India but Udupi.

LORD KRISHNA OF UDUPI

The murti of Lord Krishna is unique and vibrant

The lamps that are kept near the main idol of Lord Krishna were first lighted by Sri Madhava Acharya in the 13th century and are still kept burning.

The idols of Lord Mukhyapradana (Anjaneya or Hanuman) and Garuda kept in the Udupi Krishna Temple in their respective shrines were brought here from Ayodhya and installed.

It is believed that Chandra (The Moon God) did penance in Udupi to release him from the curse of Daksha Prajapati. Lord Shiva was impressed by his devotion and relieved him of the curse of Daksha.

A small shrine for Goddess Bhagirathi (Ganga) is in the southwest corner of the Madhava Sarovar. When the young Madhavacharya could not visit Badrinath, River Ganga herself flowed south to the Temple and gave him a darshan. A white stream of water emerged from the South West corner. Therefore a shrine of River Ganga was eventually built.

It is not closed in the afternoon. The holy trip to Udupi Krishna Temple is complete after visiting the Anatheshwara Temple and the Chandramouleeshwara temple before visiting the Udupi Krishna Temple. Aarti and Archana items are available in shops near the main entrance.

Devotees worship the idol of Lord Krishna in the form of a small boy. They believe that Saint Madhavacharya anointed his eight disciples to take care of the functioning of the Temple and to propagate his philosophy and studies.

These eight disciples created their own Matha and presently rotate their responsibilities every two years. The eight Mathas that run the Temple Administration are Palimar Mutt, Krishna Mutt, Kaniyour Mutt, Sode Mutt, Puttige Mutt, Admar Mutt, Shirur Mutt, and Pejawar Mutt.

The Udupi Krishna Temple complex resembles an Ashram with a huge Tank or Sarovar popular as the Madhav Sarovar. The main temple has a Mandap and the Garbhagriha. The main door of the sanctum is not open and visitors can view God only trough a meshed window that contains figures of Avatars of Lord Vishnu. Smaller shrines for Lord Hanuman famous here as Lord Mukhyaprana, Garuda and to Saint Madhavacharya are also there.

What is the history of Udupi Krishna Temple?

According to history, a popular legend is associated with Udupi Krishna Temple. An ardent devotee of Lord Krishna by the name of Kanaka Dasa arrived in Udupi in the early 16th century. As per ancient scriptures, Udupi was popular as Sivalli or as Rajathapeetapuram.

The place was pious even before the construction of the Krishna Temple due to the existence of the Anantheshwara Temple and the Chandramouleeshwara Temple.

The story of how the Udupi Krishna Temple came into existence is a very interesting one. There is a description of the events in the Madhava Vijaya, a biography of the Saint Madhavacharya and in a seventeenth century work by Sri Raghuvarya Thirtha.

As per Sri Raghuvarya Thirtha, Lord Krishna’s birth mother Devaki often complained to the Lord about being unable to witness the childhood of her beloved son Krishna. She wished that Lord make her happy and fortunate like mother Yashoda. Lord Krishna assumed the form of a small boy and played with Devaki. When churning butter, Krishna broke the churn and ate the lumps of butter.

He also snatched the churning rope from Devaki and started playing with it. Rukmini Devi, Wife of Krishna wanted to preserve the memory and had an idol made depicting Lord Krishna holding a churning rod and rope. She worshiped the idol regularly. After Lord Krishna departed to heaven, Arjuna moved the idol to Rukminivana and worshiped it with Chandana. With passage of time, a thick layer of clay deposited on the idol until the merchants boarded it into a vessel mistaking it for a ballast.

What is the dress code for Udupi Krishna Temple?

The male devotees should not wear shirts and vests inside the Udupi Krishna Temple complex. Also, they should avoid short pants and the Bermudas. We also request female devotees to dress traditional ethnic wear.

What are the poojas and rituals performed at Udupi Krishna Temple?

A sequence of fourteen Poojas is performed for the deity every day. They are:

Nirmalya Visarjana

The priest performs the Pooja at 5:30 AM every morning. In addition, he removes the decorations, ornaments, apparels and flowers offered to the God on the previous day. Then he bathes the idol. Finally he offers Naivedyam made from Tulasi, Bengal gram, Curd, Puffed Rice, jaggery, Ginger and coconut, Betel leaves and Ghee.

Ushakala Pooja

First of all the priest performs the Abhishekam of the deity at 6 am with the holy water stored in silver vessels. Then he conducts Eight Aartis and offers Sandal paste, Tulasi, Rice, Milk, Curd, coconut, Banana, and Betel Leaves.

Akshaya Patra and co – Pooja

The priest performs the Seva at 6:15 AM. He then worships a cow selected from the Cowshed. Then he distributes Rice and Jaggery to the cows.

Panchamrita Pooja

The Pooja starts at 6:30 AM. Both the idols of Lord Krishna and Lord Mukhyaprana are worshiped with the Panchamrit. After removing the sandal paste and flowers, in the Surya Saale of the Temple, the priest showers the idol with Gold coins. Then he bathes Lord Krishna with Ghee, Milk, Honey, Curd and Sugar. Finally, he offers 32 tender coconuts to the deity along with the Bananas.

Udvartana Pooja

The Pooja starts at 7 AM. The priest bathes the idol in perfumed water. Then, he offers tender coconuts, milk and butter and finally raises the Aarti.

Kalasha Pooja

The ritual occurs at 7:30 AM. The priest keeps gold Kalasas in front of the idol and performs pooja. Then, he offers cooked rice to the God which he later offers to Garuda. After the offering, the priest disperses the cooked rice into the Madhava Sarovar as feed for the Fishes.

Theertha Pooja

The Pooja takes place at 7:40 AM. First of all, the priest uses the holy water from the gold vessel for the main Abhishek. Then he dries the idol with a clean piece of cloth and decorates it with Tulasi garlands, flowers, and Sandal paste. Finally, he gives the holy water from this Abhishek as Theertham to the devotees. Hence this puja is known as The Theertha Pooja.

Alankara Pooja

The Pooja takes place at 8:30 AM. The priest decorates the idol with Gold ornaments and Silk clothing. Then he offers Tulasi garlands to the God. Finally he offers Rice, Sweets, Milk, Curds, Coconuts, Bananas and Betel leaves to the God amidst the singing of hymns and songs by the Matha musicians.

Avasara Pooja

The priest performs an Aarti to the God after offering Rice and Coconuts. This Pooja happens at 10:30 AM.

Maha Pooja

This Pooja is the most important Pooja of the day and the head of the Matha himself performs it at 11 AM. He offers rice, Tulasi, and sandal paste to the God amidst the chantings of Vishnu Ssahasranama, Krishna Stotra, and Brahma Stotra.

The Naivedya articles such as pots of cooked rice, sweets, and eatables, payasam, panchakajjaya, coconuts, plantains, betel leaves etc. are placed before the God. The priest comes out of the Sanctum and closes the door. Devotees believe that Madhavacharya himself makes the offerings to the God. After some time, the priests return and perform Aartis. Finally after firing two country Guns, signaling the occurrence of the Pooja, the people of the Town begin eating their meal.

Sri Mukhyaprana Pooja

The Naivedyams offered to Sri Krishna during the Maha puja are offered again to Sri Mukhyaprana. The Priest then performs the Aarti.

Sri Madhavacharya Pooja

The same Naivedyam is then offered to Sri Madhwacharya.

Simhasana Pooja

The Simhasana is offered the Naivedyam.

Pradakshina Namaskara

The priest goes around the idol four times and then proceeds to the Madhav Sarovar where he worships Goddess Bhagirathi. He dispers the offerings in the Sarovar. Then he proceeds to the Vrindavana and then to the Cowshed where he feeds the Cows. Afterwards he returns to the Simhasana where he distributes the Theertham to other priests and devotees. Finally he proceeds to the dining hall.

Chamara Seva

This Pooja takes place at 7 PM. Pooja is offered to sacred books and the Vigraha. Kirtans and bhajans are sung by the Udupi Krishna Temple musicians. Two huge baskets of puffed rice and Jaggery are offered to the God and an Aarti is raised.

Ratri Pooja

The usual Naivedyam consisting of pots of cooked rice, ghee, jaggery, tender coconut and milk is offered. Aarti is raised on this occasion as the music and chanting of hymns continues. This Pooja occurs at 7:30 PM.

Ranga Pooja

This service to God happens at 7:40 PM. The priest spreads four pots of Panchakajjaya on Banana leaves in a line in front of Sri Mukyaprana. Then he lights rows of lamps on either side and performs an Aarti. The devotees take the Utsava Murthi around the Matha and make offerings. The also recite songs and kirtans.

Ekantha Seva

This Pooja happens at 8:50 PM. The Utsava murti is laid down on a golden cradle. Aarti is raised and lullabies are sung. The blowing of a Conch indicates the end of rituals for the day.

Besides these daily rituals, as a devotee, a number of Sevas can be offered to the God. Some of them are Akhanda Saptotsava, Laksha Deepotsava, Maha Puja Rathotsava, Sarva Seva, Annadanam, Ksheera Abhishek, Nanda Deepa, Godaana, Sahasranamarchana, Ashtotta Archana, Karpoora Mangal Aarti and Vaayustuti Parayana.

What are the festivals celebrated at the Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Udupi Krishna Temple are:

The Saptosava

Devotees celebrate the unique festival in the Udupi Krishna Temple in a grand manner for a period of seven days. The festival begins five days before the Makara Sankranama or Makara Sankranthi in January. During the first five days of the festival, they place the idols of Lord Krishna and Lord Mukhyaprana on the Garuda ratha and idols of Lord Anantheshwara and Chandreshwara on the Mahapuja ratha. Then they take the two Rathas around the town.

Rathotsava

Ratho Utsava beiing celebrated at Udupi Krishna Temple

With great gallore and glory, the Rathoutsava gets celebrated at Udupi

On the day of Makara Sankranthi, the sixth day, the priests place Utsava Murthis of Lord Krishna and Lord Mukhyaprana in a golden palanquin and take them to the Madhava Sarovar. There they place them in a decorated float and take them around the Sarovar. This Utsava is the Teppotsava. Devotees believe that Sri Madhava Acharya installed the idol of Lord Krishna in the sanctum on the day of Makara Sankranthi.

Afterwards the priests take the idols of Lord Krishna, Lord Mukhyaprana, Lord Anantheshwara and Lord Chandreshwara to the three chariots. Then they place the idol of Lord Krishna on the main beautifully decorated Brahma Ratha. They place the idol of Lord Mukhyaprana in the Garuda Ratha and the idols of Chandreshwara and Anantheshwara in the Mahapuja Ratha.

Thousands of devotees pull the three chariots chanting the names of the Lord. After the Rathas reach the Temple, the priests take the idols to the Vasantha Mahal where they place the God in a cradle and perform the Pooja for him. After the Poojas, they take the idols to the sanctum where the Flute Seva and Ekantha Seva takes place signaling the end of the day.

Churnotsava

On the last day, after the Mahapuja, the devotees bring Utsava Murthis of Lord Krishna and Lord Mukhyaprayana in a gold palanquin to the main chariot named Brahma Ratha. The priests perform Mangala Aarti for the Lords and then offers sweets and fruits.

One should observe that during this ritual; a Garuda always revolves around the chariot from above. Then the chariots go around the Ratha street and then to the Madhava Sarovar. After that, the priests bathe the Lord. Then all the priests and people take a dip in the Sarovar. The unique feature is that the priests offer flowers smeared with a gold paste to the Lord and then disperse them into the crowd. Hence, the name of the occasion became Churnotsava.

Shri Krishna Jayanti

The auspicious day occurs in August – September. The devotees and the priests observe a complete fast for the entire day. On the next day morning, a large number of guests are fed with special offerings like milk sweets.

A clay image of Sri Krishna is taken around the town in a Ratha and the Handi ceremony is celebrated with great energy. Handi is the process of breaking clay pots that hang between buildings and poles. Devotees take out a parade in which people dress as animals, masked figures and entertain the crowd. Then they submerge the idol in the Madhava Sarovar signaling the end of the celebrations.

Mesha Sankranti

The Hindu New Year usually falls in the month of April. The festival is popular Vishu (Kerala), Puthandu (Tamil), Baisakhi (Punjab), and Bihu (Assam) and devotees celebrate it by taking out a Ratha Yatra of Lord Krishna and then doing a Pooja in a cradle.

Vasantotsava

The day marks the beginning of the spring season and usually celebrated in March – April. The special Pooja and Prasadam take place for two months during the period. A Ratha Yatra for the God takes place every night starting from the day of Akshaya Tritiya and ending on the Vaisakha Poornima in May.

Sri Madhava Navami

Devotees believe that this is the day on which Saint Madhavacharya disappeared from mortal sight. Special Poojas take place for the Saint at the Anathasana Temple. People also believe that he is still present as a holy spirit. The mass feeding of Brahmins, as well as recitation of the Madhwavijaya (biography of Madhavacharya), takes place.

Holi Kamadahana

The auspicious and festive day of Holi occurs in March. On this day, a procession of Lord Krishna starts from the Temple till Kadiyali and back. An effigy of Lord Kamadeva (God of Love) is burnt in accordance of the mythological tale where he sacrifices himself so that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati fall in love after the death of Goddess Sati, the first wife of Lord Shiva.

Devotees smear themselves with colored water and paste and revel in the festival. Devotees also believe that Holi was Lord Krishna’s favorite festival and they celebrate it with enthusiasm, especially in Mathura and Dwarka. (Learn more about Dwarka Somnath Tour Package)

Besides the above festivals devotees celebrate Ram Navami, Narasimha Jayanti, Bhagirathi Jayanti, Chaturmasa, Ganesh Chaturthi, Navaratri, Deepavali, Subramanya Shashti, and Gurusamaradhana with great spiritual significance and fervor.

The Tulasi Vrindavana Festival – In the month of Karthik (November – December), the priest decorates and worships a sacred Tulasi plant and a lamp post in the North of the Temple by singing holy songs and recitals for a period of twelve days.

Janmasthami at Udupi Krishna Temple

How to reach Udupi Krishna Temple?

Here’s how to reach Udupi Krishna Temple:

Air – Nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport 59 km away from the town.
Train – Udupi is an important railway station in the Konkan Railway route. Trains are available from cities like Mumbai, Jaipur, Bengaluru, Gokarna, Murudeshwar, Kohlapur, Trivandrum and Madgaon.
Road – KSRTC operated regular buses from Bengaluru, Mangalore, and Mysore.

Where to stay nearby?

The holy town of Udupi is bustling with small hotels and lodges that offer the devotees a decent option to stay overnight.

Hotel Sri Krishna Residency: This hotel is located in an area with shops 2 km from the 13th-century Udupi Sri Krishna Matha Hindu temple, 4 km from Udupi train station and 9 km from Padukare Beach along the Laccadive Sea.
Rukmini Residency: Located in a commercial area with shops as well as restaurants, this hotel is a 7-minute walk from the Udupi Anantheshwara Temple. It is only 3 km away from the train station.
Hotel Sriram Residency: This supremely furnished deluxe hotel is a 4-minute walk from Udupi Sri Krishna Matha Hindu temple and 8 km from Malpe Beach.

Where to eat nearby?

The Bhojana Saale in the northern part of the Udupi Krishna Temple is where the devotees are fed. One can eat the Prasadam served at the Temple kitchen. Several restaurants serve delicious Udupi cuisine (mainly Idlis, Dosas, Vada, Sambhar) along with North Indian cuisine as well.

One can also find Non-vegetarian food, especially seafood in restaurants.

What are some temples nearby?

Some of the temples near Udupi Krishna Temple are:

Chandramouleeshwara Temple

The Temple is just opposite to the Udupi Sri Krishna Temple. Some believe that this is the place where Chandra did his penance and Lord Shiva relieved him of the curse of Daksha which stated that Chandra will keep decreasing in size and eventually disappear. Lord Shiva gave a boon that he will decrease in size for 15 days and then increase for 15 days in a month. The Temple is for Lord Shiva.

Devotees also believe that the Linga changes color from black in the morning, blue at noon and white at night. Some also believe that one must visit the Chandramouleeshwara Temple and the Anantheshwara Temple before visiting the Krishna Temple.

Anatheshwara Temple

The Temple legend says that Sage Parashurama retrieved the land from the sea and made his devotee Ramabhoja as the King. During the plowing of the land to perform the Ashwamedha Yagna, he accidently killed a snake. To relieve the sin, he made a silver peetham known as Rajatha Peetham in Kannada with images of a snake carved on it.

Shri Janardhana Mahakali Temple

The Temple is in Ambalpay area in Udupi, about 3 km away from the Sri Krishna Temple. The presiding deity of the beautiful temple is Goddess Mahakali. Devotees also believe that she came down to Earth as a guardian for the town and eventually Janardhana Swamy followed her.

Batte Vinayaka Temple

The temple is one of the oldest temples in the district, constructed by the Barkur kingdom. The unique feature of the temple is that the idol of Lord Ganapathi is facing the North but leaning towards West.

Sri Mahishamardhini Temple

The Temple is in Kadiyali. The temple’s history dates back to around 1200 years. The idol of Mahishamardhini is in a standing posture with four arms. She holds the Prayaga chakra on one hand and the Shanka on the other. The idol also depicts her piercing the head of the demon Mahishasura.

Visit the Udupi Krishna Temple

This year if you wish to seek the holy blessings of the Lord Krishna, then visit his shrine to bring peace to your mind.

Murudeshwar Temple Timings, Poojas, and History

March 9, 2020, Sasidhar Darla 72 Comments Filed Under: Karnataka Temples Tagged With: Mukti Sthala, Shiva Temples

Murudeshwar Temple of Karnataka is one of the Mukti Sthala and boasts the world’s second-largest Shiva statue which commands attention in the blue skyline surrounded by sea.

Murudeshwar Temple – Facts

Deity	Lord Murudeshwar (Lord Shiva)
Location	Murudeshwar, Karnataka
Entry Fee	Free
Best Time to Visit	October to March
Darshan Timings	6:00 AM to 8:30 PM
Poojas	Rudrabhishekam
Festivals	Shravan, Mahashivratri

Murudeshwar Temple Video

The land of the temple just protrudes out of the mainland. Hence, the Arabian Sea surrounds the temple on three sides. The Murudeshwar Temple Complex begins with a huge 20-storied Gopuram.

The whole Murudeshwar Temple Complex is modern except the main Sanctum which is still dark and retains the old form. Further, businessman and philanthropist R.N. Shetty constructed the new temple complex.

What are the timings of Murudeshwar Temple?

Here are the timings of Murudeshwar Temple:

Rituals	From	To
Morning Darshan	6:00 AM	1:00 PM
Evening Darshan	3:00 PM	8:30 PM
Morning Pooja	6:30 AM	7:30 AM
Maha Pooja	12:15 PM	1:00 PM
Night Pooja	7:15 PM	8:15 PM

Which sevas and poojas take place at Murudeshwar Temple?

The Sevas consist of the Daily Sevas and the Yearly Sevas. The Daily Sevas at the Murudeshwar Temple are:

Rudrabhishekam: This pooja is dedicated to Lord Shiva who is worshiped as fire or Rudra. The puja wipes out all sins and purifies the atmosphere. It also removes all sorts of planetary related ill-occurrences.
Panchamritha Abhishekam: The Linga is bathed with five “Amrit” or “Nectars”. They are Milk, Honey, Ghee, Sugar, and Curd.
Panchakajjaya: The Panchakajjaya is a Prasadam unique to the region of Karnataka. Several types of Panchakajjaya can be made but the most common one uses Green Gram, Coconut, Jaggery, Sesame, Cardamom, and Ghee. This is offered as Naivedyam to God during the prayers.
Bilvarchane: In this archana one offers Bilva leaves to the Linga of the God.
Chandan Abhishekam: The idol of the Lord is bathed with Chandan or the Sandalwood paste.
Bhasmarchane: The Archana takes place by applying “Bhasm” or ash (Vibhuti) to the Linga of Lord Shiva.
Navagraha Pooja: The nine Gods representing the nine planets are worshiped for good luck and fortune in one’s life.
Ekadasa Rudra: All the major Puranas mention that Lord Shiva has eleven forms of Rudra that the devotees worship with their respective shlokas and mantras. These eleven forms are Mahadeva, Shiva, Maha Rudra, Shankara, Neelalohita, Eesana, Vijaya Rudra, Bhima, Devadeva, Bhavodbhava, and Adityamaka Srirudra.

Besides the above Sevas, the other daily Sevas include Aanastharpana, Thilarchane, Shivasahasranama, Sudarshana Japa, Lalitha Sahasranama Pooja, Kumkumarchane, Durga Sahasranama, Ganapathi and Subramanya Sahasranama, and Anjaneya Sahasranama.

The Yearly Sevas at the Murudeshwar Temple are:

Sarva Deva Pooja: Devotees worship all the shrines of the Murudeshwar Temple and the daily Poojas take place on the devotee’s behalf on any particular day of the year.
Nanda Deepa Seva: The priests light The Nanda Deepa Stambh with lamps on behalf of the devotee.
Annastarpana Seva: The Annadanam takes place for devotees for one full day.

What is the significance of Murudeshwar Temple?

The significance of Murudeshwar Temple is that it houses the cloth covering the famed and sacred Atma Linga of Lord Shiva. As per Hinduism, all the Gods attained mortality and invincibility by worshiping the Atma Linga of Lord Shiva. The Atma Linga originally resided in the heart of Lord Shiva.

However, the Lord gave it to Ravana as a reward for his penance.

The Sri Murudeshwar Temple is one of the five Temples famous in Karnataka as the Pancha Kshetras of Lord Shiva. The other four Temples are in Nanjanagud, Dharmasthala, Dhareshwara, and Gokarna.

Moreover, the gigantic statue of Lord Shiva is the main highlight of the Murudeshwar Temple. The statue is the world’s second-largest Shiva statue at a height of 123 feet. The tallest statue of Lord Shiva is the Kailashnath Mahadev statue in Nepal. The design of the statue is in such a way that the first rays of the Sun that falls on the coast illuminate Lord Shiva first.

The towering Gopuram built at the entrance of the Murudeshwar Temple is the second tallest Gopuram in India at a height of 237.5 feet. The Tallest Gopuram is present at the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam, Tamilnadu. The unique feature of this Gopuram is that devotees can enter the Gopuram and can go to the top from where they can view the surroundings.

Devotees can perform various Sevas like Abhishekam to the Linga of Lord Rameshwara by themselves.

A Lamp or Deepam is kept inside the main shrine of Lord Murudeshwara, which is said to be burning since the Murudeshwar Temple was built. Devotees also believe that pouring oil into it and then glancing at your image on the oil surface blesses one with luck and prosperity.

What is the history of Murudeshwar Temple?

According to history and legends in the chapters of the epic Ramayana, Kaikesi who was the mother of Ravana was also a devotee of shiva. She used to make Lingas out of the beach sand and pray to them daily. However, every night, the sea washed the Linga. Seeing the distraught mother, Ravana promised to her that he will proceed to Mount Kailash and bring back Lord Shiva’s Atma Linga itself to her.

Ravana went to Mount Kailash and performed severe penance to impress Lord Shiva. He sang his praises in the acclaimed Shiva Tandava Stotram. He chopped one of his ten heads as a gift for Lord Shiva. Eventually, Lord Shiva granted him a wish. Ravana asked for the Atma Linga from Lord Shiva.

Lord Shiva then took out the Atma Linga from his heart and offered it to Ravana but placed a condition that he should not keep the Linga down until he reaches his destination. If he keeps the Linga down, the Linga will become affixed and nothing can separate it. Ravana agreed and started proceeding southwards towards his kingdom. All the other Lords were afraid as they were sure that Ravana will misuse the Atma Linga to create havoc in the world.

Narada approached Lord Ganesha and requested him to interrupt Ravana’s journey. Lord Ganesha was aware of Ravana’s daily rituals especially about the evening bath Ravana would take. With the help of Lord Vishnu, who blotted out the Sun to give an appearance of dusk, Lord Ganesha turned himself into a small boy. Ravana wanted to take a bath but could not put down the idol.

Lord Ganesha disguised as a boy, passed him. Ravana called him and passed on the idol to him giving instructions that he must not place the idol on the ground. The boy placed the idol on the ground before Ravana returned from his bath. Lord Vishnu unblocked the sun and it was daylight again. The place where Lord Ganesha placed the idol is popular as Gokarna.

Ravana became furious and tried to uproot the Linga but he could not accomplish it. He threw the case covering the Linga which fell to a place called Sajjeshwara. The lid of the case which held the Linga fell in a place called Gunavanthe and the string covering the Linga fell at Dhareshwara. The cloth covering the Linga fell in Murudeshwar.

When Lord Shiva learned of this, he visited these five places and worshiped the Lingas there. He declared that these places will be known as the Pancha Kshetras and anyone who worships here will be free from all their sins.

What is the dress code of Murudeshwar Temple?

The Murudeshwar Temple does not impose any particular dress code for entering into the temple complex. However, one must wear decent clothes to the temple.

What are the festivals celebrated at Murudeshwar Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Murudeshwar temple are:

Mahashivaratri: The festival occurs in February or March. The festival signifies the marriage of Lord Shiva with Goddess Parvati. Some also believe that this is the day when Lord Shiva absorbed the poison that turned him blue during the churning of Amrit episode in mythology. Devotees also keep fast and sing bhajans throughout the night and into the day. Thousands of pilgrims from in and around Karnataka visit the shrine to receive blessings from the God themselves.
Karthik Purnima: The festive day is celebrated in the month of Karthik, usually in November – December. It is believed that Lord Shiva destroyed the three demon cities, collectively known as Tripura of the Tripurasura demon on this day. Some also believe that the day signified the birth of Lord Karthikeyan (Murugan), son of Lord Shiva.

How to reach Murudeshwar Temple?

Here’s how to reach Murudeshwar Temple:

Air: The nearest airport is the Mangalore International Airport which is at a distance of 165 km from the Murudeshwar Temple.
Train: The nearest railway station is Murudeshwar. The Karwar express from Bengaluru connects Murudeshwar to other important towns.
Road: Regular buses are available from major cities of Karnataka.

Where to stay near Murudeshwar Temple?

Several options for a stay are available for pilgrims in the town of Murudeshwar as well as in Bhatkal which is 16 km away. The RNS Residency Hotel is just beside the Murudeshwar Temple and offers sea-facing rooms. Amenities like a swimming pool and a gym are also available.

Apart from that, resorts are available a few kilometers away from Murudeshwar. Also, The Naveen Beach Resort and the Kamath Yatri Nivas are the nearest to the temple complex.

Where to eat near Murudeshwar Temple?

One can visit the canteen near the Parking place in front of the Murudeshwar Temple Complex for small meals like Dosas, Vadas, Coffee, and Tea. The town of Murudeshwar is host to a large number of small restaurants that primarily serve authentic South Indian cuisine.

The majority of the hotels in the town are either near the beach or near the railway station. Certain hotels near the railway station serve North Indian dishes as well as Chinese cuisine. One can also find Non-vegetarian hotels to get a taste of delicious seafood native to the beaches.

What are some of the temples nearby?

Some temples near Murudeshwar temple are:

Sri Mahabaleshwar Temple, Gokarna: The temple is located 54 km away from Murudeshwar Temple. The Linga of the temple is the Atma Linga, which Lord Shiva gave to Ravana. Gokarna is also a Mukti Sthala, where funeral rites take place.
Idagunji Maha Ganapathi Temple: The famous and ancient temple for Lord Ganesha is about 20 km away from Murudeshwar Temple. It dates back to about 1500 years.
Kollur Mookambika Temple: The famous temple is 60 km away from Murudeshwar Temple. The presiding deity is Goddess Mookambikai also famous as Devi and in front of her idol, is a Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva. The unique feature of the Linga is that it consists of two unequal parts – The Smaller right part represents Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva and the larger Left part represents Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Murudeshwar Temple open throughout the year?

Yes, the Murudeshwar Temple is open all 365 days of the year.

What is the entry fee?

The entry to the Murudeshwar Temple is free of cost.

Is there any online darshan facility available?

No. There is no facility for online darshan available.

Is there any facility for specially-abled and senior citizens?

No. There is no facility for specially-abled and senior citizens.

What is the weather like during the summer?

The summers in Murudeshwar starts from April and continue until June. The summers here can be very hot and humid. Temperatures during the daytime often go up to 38 º C.

What are winters like in Murudeshwar?

In Murudeshwar, winters start in October and continue until March. The temperatures during this time range from around 15 º C to 25 º C. The weather during this time is cool and pleasant.

If you have any questions about The Murudeshwar Temple, please leave a comment below, and we will get back to you within one hour.

Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

September 15, 2019, Sasidhar Darla 26 Comments Filed Under: Karnataka Temples Tagged With: Mukti Sthala, Shiva Temples

Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple is located in the coastal town of Gokarna in Karnataka between a confluence of the Rivers of Gangavali and Agnashini. The Hindu Saint Sri Adi Shankaracharya established the Shree Ramachandrapura Mutt in Gokarna who look after the administration of the Gokarna Temple.

Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple – Facts

Deity	Lord Mahabaleshwar (Lord Shiva)
Location	Gokarna, Karnataka
Entry Fee	Free
Best Time to Visit	October to March
Darshan Timings	6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Poojas	Rudra Homam
Festivals	Shravan, Shivratri

Mahabaleshwar Temple, Gokarna

Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple is also famous as Dakshina Kasi (Southern Kasi) and as the Bhookailasa. The region of Gokarna and its religious importance finds mention in several Puranas like the Bhagavata Purana, Sthala Purana, Guru Charitra, and the Skanda Purana.

What are the timings of Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple?

Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple opens at 6:00 AM and closes at 8:00 PM. The temple also performs various rituals during this time. The devotees can be a part of these rituals, such as the morning, afternoon, and evening poojas.

Here are the timings of Gokarna Temple:

Rituals	From	To
Morning Darshan	6:00 AM	12:30 PM
Evening Darshan	5:00 PM	8:00 PM
Mangal Aarti, Udyana Bali	6:00 AM	12:30 PM
Sparsha Darshan	5:00 PM	8:00 PM
Nityotsava	8:30 PM	–
Amrutanna Prasada Bhojana (Annadanam)	12:00 PM	2:00 PM
Amrutanna Prasada Bhojana	7:30 PM	8:30 PM
2nd Kalam Pooja	7:30 PM	8:00 PM

What are the poojas and rituals of the Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple?

Here are the poojas and rituals that take place at Gokarna Temple:

Sankalpa Pooja Mangal Aarti: The Mangal Aarti takes place for the day in the name of the devotee.
Bilvarchana: The Archana also takes place for the Lord with Bilva leaves on behalf of the devotee.
Ashttotara Bilvarchana: The Archana with Bilva leaves takes place by reciting the 108 names of Lord Shiva on behalf of the devotee.
Kumbhabhishek and Kshirabhishek Pooja: The priest bathes the Lord in cow’s milk and worships him on behalf of the devotee.
Panchamrutabhishek Pooja: The priest also bathes the God with “Panch Amrits” that are milk, curd, ghee, honey and sugar among the recitals of several mantras and shlokas praising the greatness of Lord Shiva.
Maha Panchamrutabhisheka Pooja: The Lord is bathed with “Panch Amrit” that are milk, curd, ghee, honey, and sugar. There is also a Rudrabhishekam which is performed after the bathing process is over. The Rudrabhishek Pooja wipes out all sins and purifies the atmosphere. It also removes all sorts of planetary related ill-occurrences.
Navadhanya Abhishek Pooja: The deity is worshiped with Navadhanya meaning nine grains. Usually, these grains are Bengal Gram (Chana dal), Wheat, Horse Gram, Green Gram, Rice, White Beans, Sesame, Chick Peas, and Black Gram.
Silver Nagabharana Special Pooja: The priest worships the idol of a silver Nagabharana (image of a snake with five fangs protecting Lord Shiva) on behalf of the devotee.
Golden Nagabharana Special Pooja: The priest worships the idol of a Golden Nagabharana on behalf of the devotee.

What is the significance of Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple?

The significance of the Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple is that Atmalinga of Lord Shiva at Gokarna Temple is as sacred as the Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva in the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The Gokarna Temple is one of the seven Mukti Sthalas of Karnataka. The other six are Udupi, Subramanya, Kumbhashi, Kodeshwara, Sankaranarayanan, and Kollur.

These places are together known as the Parashurama Kshetras. Devotees believe that these Temples stand on the land of Parashurama from the sea.

The Gokarna Temple is one of the five Temples famous in Karnataka as the Pancha Kshetras of Lord Shiva. The other four Temples are in Nanjanagud, Dharmasthala, Dhareshwara, and Murudeshwar.

The Gokarna Temple is also one of the 276 Paadal Petra Sthalams in India. Shaiva Nayanars believed these temples to be the greatest Shiva Temples in the 6th to 9th century CE. They are praised in Thevaram, divine songs sung in praise of Lord Shiva and composed by three Tamil poets named Thirugana Sambanthar, Thirunavakkarasar, and Sundaramoorthy Nayanar.

The region of Gokarna is also holy for the followers of Lord Dattatreya and the Adinath Sampradaya of the Nath tradition. Devotees believe that he resided here for 3 years and performed penance here. Lord Dattatreya was the Avatar or Incarnation of the Trimurti or the Holy Trinity of Lord Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.

The Atmalinga

Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple architecture features resemble the Dravidian style of construction. Inside the Sanctum, the main Atmalinga is in a square Saligrama Peetha with a small hole on the top. One can also view the top of the Linga from the hole.

The image represents Lord Shiva in a standing position and is 1500 years old. The actual Atmalinga is visible in whole only once in 40 years during the Ashtabandana Kumbhabhishekam. Gokarna Temple Complex also has shrines dedicated to Lord Ganapathi, Lord Dattatreya, and the Goddess Taamaragowri. The Kotitheertham or the Pushkarini is a small manmade tank present near the Gokarna Temple.

As per the legend, after returning from the Underworld (Sapta Paathala), Lord Shiva collected the essence of all of Brahma’s creations and created a golden deer with three horns and three eyes. Devotees also believe that the three horns were at Pushkar, Shaligram, and Gokarna. These three places are collectively the Siddhi Kshetras.

People believe that the Atmalinga which was here in the Treta Yuga was initially red in color. It became yellow in the Dwapara Yuga and turned black in the Kaliyuga. It is also a belief that the root of the Linga leads to the seven realms of the Paathala Loka (underworld regions inhabited by the Danavas, Daityas, Yakshas, and Nagas.

People also believe that performing the death rites of the dead will grant them salvation or moksha at par with those at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

What is the history of the Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple?

According to the history of the Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple, Mayurasharma of the Kadamba dynasty constructed the temple during the period of 345 – 365 AD. The Vijayanagara Kingdom Emperor Krishnadevaraya visited the shrine and weighed himself in gold here. The great ruler Shivaji often prayed at the shrine.

The famous Kalidasa mentions Lord Mahabaleshwar as Lord of Gokarna in his 4th-century work, Raghuvamsha. The Nayanars praised the deity of the Tulu Nadu, Mahabaleshwar in their work Tevaram between the 6th and 9th centuries.

As per one legend, when Lord Shiva cursed Lord Brahma that nobody will worship him because of his lie about finding the end of the endless beam of light emanating from Lord Shiva, Lord Brahma cursed him back stating that Lord Shiva will go to hell. Devotees believe that after going to the underworld, Lord Shiva appeared out through a cow’s ear, a metaphor for emerging out of an ear-shaped place (Mother Earth) known as Gokarna.

The Legend

Kaikesi, the mother of Ravana worshiped Lord Shiva ardently. She used to make Lingas out of the beach sand and pray to them daily. However, every night the Linga used to get washed away by the sea. Hence, Ravana promised to her that he will bring Lord Shiva’s Atmalinga itself to her.

Ravana went to Mount Kailash and performed severe penance to impress Lord Shiva. Eventually, Lord Shiva granted him a wish. Ravana asked for the Atmalinga from Lord Shiva and his wife, Goddess Parvati.

Lord Shiva then took out the Atmalinga from his heart and offered it to Ravana but said that the Linga should not touch the ground until he reaches his destination. Otherwise, the Linga will become affixed. He also asked Goddess Parvati to accompany Ravana.

Lord Vishnu interrupted Ravana’s journey after disguising himself as an old Brahmin. When Ravana started boasting about how he received the Goddess as a boon from Lord Shiva, the Brahmin created an illusion in which the Goddess turned into an old and frail lady. Humiliated, Ravana left the Goddess and proceeded with the Atmalinga.

Lord Ganesha was aware of the evening bath Ravana would take. With the help of Lord Vishnu, who blotted out the Sun to give an appearance of dusk.

Lord Ganesha disguised as a boy passed him. Ravana called him and passed on the idol to him giving instructions that the idol must not be placed on the ground. The boy placed the idol on the ground before Ravana returned from his bath. Lord Vishnu unblocked the sun and it was daylight again. The place where Lord Ganesha placed the idol is known as Gokarna.

What is the dress code of Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple?

The devotees are requested to dress decently. Bermuda shorts, beachwear, miniskirts, and other revealing wear are not allowed inside the Gokarna temple premises.

What are the festivals celebrated at Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Gokarna Temple are:

Mahashivaratri: The most important festival occurs in the month of February – March. It signifies the marriage of Lord Shiva with Goddess Parvati. Some also believe that this is the day when Lord Shiva absorbed the poison that turned him blue during the churning of Amrit episode in mythology. The festival lasts for 9 days, the 6th day being the day of Shivaratri. The devotees perform various special Poojas like Mahapooja, Rathotsava, Bhootabali, Tulabhara and other cultural programs like music and dance festival. Devotees also carry out a Ratha Yatra on the last day of the festival. They carry the idol of Lord Mahabaleshwar in the Dodda Ratha, around the town among the chants of prayers and hymns. More than 100 persons pull the Ratha. Continous Annadanam also takes place during these days when lakhs of pilgrims visit the Temple to receive Lord Shiva’s blessings.
Ratha Saptami: The Car or the Ratha festival occurs on the seventh day of the bright half of the month of February. It denotes the seventh day of the movement of Sun towards the northern direction of vertical equinox from Capricorn. It also represents the birth of Sun God Surya. Hence, in some places, it is also popular as the Surya Jayanti. The festival symbolizes the beginning of spring and the harvesting season. In Gokarna, devotees carry a grand Ratha Yatra of the God around the town and distribute special Prasadams.
Tripurakhya Deepotsava: The festival occurs on the day of the Karthik Poornima at Gokarna Temple. The Purnima is famous as Tripuri Purnima because of the legend of Lord Shiva destroying the three demon cities, collectively known as Tripura of the Tripurasura demon. Special Poojas like the Laksha Bilvarchana, Dhatri Homam, Vanabhojana, and Deepotsava also take place on this day.
Vijayadashami: On this auspicious day, the worship of Goddess Bhadrakali takes place in the Gokarna Temple. Devotees also take the idol of Sri Mahabaleshwar in a procession to the Bhadrakali Temple and bring it back amidst great chantings of religious mantras and bhajans. They also distribute Special Prasadam to the people visiting the shrine on the day.
Kadiru Haranotsava: The first harvest of Paddy (Rice) is the Kadiru Haranotsava. The festival and its rituals take place in a nearby village named Bankikodia. The villagers take the Utsava Moorthy (idol) of the Lord to the field and worship it. Following his blessings, they harvest the crop every year. Besides these festivals, the Gokarna Temple also celebrates the Sharada Pooja, Ganesha Chaturthi, Ugadi, Krishna Janmashtami, Kaamadahana and Shiva-Ganga Vivahotsava.

How to reach Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple?

Here’s how to reach Gokarna Temple:

Air: Dabolim International Airport in Panaji, Goa is the nearest airport to Gokarna. It lies 150 km from the town.
Train: The nearest railway station is Gokarna Road, 6 km from the town.
Road: Devotees can arrive in Gokarna by taking any of the KSRTC buses from Panaji, Bengaluru, and Mangalore.

Where to stay near Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple?

Many Hotels and Lodges provide a comfortable stay at nominal rates. Since the town also has a number of scenic beaches, a few beach resorts have also come up in the vicinity. Advanced booking is preferable as the town is usually packed with devotees during the festive and holiday season.

Where to eat near Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple?

The devotees to the Gokarna Temple are served Prasada Bhojana every day free of cost in the afternoon and the evening at 12:30 PM and 7:30 PM respectively. A large number of small restaurants have also come up at the Gokarna Temple and nearby areas.

They mainly serve delicious South Indian cuisine, mainly vegetarian. Seafood is also available in certain places.

What are some temples near Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple?

Some of the temples near Gokarna Temple are:

Sri Maha Ganapathi Temple: The temple is only a few meters away from the Mahabaleshwar Temple. The temple is in honor of Lord Ganapathi, who took the form of a normal boy who deceived Ravana and established the Atmalinga in Gokarna.
Bhadrakali Temple: The temple is 4 km away from the Mahabaleshwar Temple. As per the legend, Vishnu’s illusion freed the Goddess Bhadrakali, an Avatar of Parvati from Ravana.
Bharat Temple: The temple is for Bharat, brother of Lord Rama and is on a hillock near the Mahabaleshwar Temple. The temple is present in the temple for Lord Rama. One can also visit a theertham famous as Ramatheertham.
The Pancha Kshetra pilgrimage: One can also visit the Pancha Kshetras of Dhareshwar (40 km), Murudeshwar (55 km), Guneshwar (40 km), and Sajjeshwar (40 km towards Goa) from Gokarna. The group of five temples is extremely holy and is a must for any Shaivite pilgrimage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple open throughout the year?

Yes, the Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple is open all 365 days of the year.

What is the entry fee?

The entry to the Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple is free of cost.

Is there any online darshan facility available?

No. There is no facility for online darshan available.

Is there any facility for specially-abled and senior citizens?

No. There is no facility for specially-abled and senior citizens.

What is the weather like during the summer?

The summers in Gokarna starts from April and continue until June. The summers here can be very hot and humid. Temperatures during the daytime often go up to 38 º C.

What are winters like in Gokarna?

In Gokarna, winters start in October and continue until March. The temperatures during this time range from around 15 º C to 25 º C. The weather during this time is cool and pleasant.

If you have any questions about The Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple, please leave a comment below, and we will get back to you within one hour.

Kollur Mookambika Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

August 3, 2019, Sasidhar Darla 33 Comments Filed Under: Karnataka Temples Tagged With: Devi Temples, Mukti Sthala

Kollur Mookambika Temple of Sri Mookambika is in Kollur in the Udupi district of Karnataka. The Kollur Mookambika Temple is one of the seven Mukti Sthalas of Karnataka. The presiding deity is Goddess Mookambika in a unique form of a Swayambhulinga. Goddess Mookambika is an avatar of Goddess Parvati who descended to Earth to annihilate the demon Kaumasura. The Kollur Mookambika Temple holds high spiritual value and receives lakhs of pilgrims every year.

Kollur Mookambika Temple – Facts

Deity	Goddess Mookambika
Location	Udupi, Karnataka
Entry Fee	Free
Best Time to Visit	October to March
Darshan Timings	5:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Poojas	Pushpanjali Pooja, Devi Mahaatme Parayana, Rudrabhishekam
Festivals	Navratri, Ugadi, Ratholsavam

Kollur Mookambika Temple Video

The region of Kollur is among the 7 Mukti Sthalas in Karnataka. The other six are Udupi, Subramanya, Kumbhashi, Kodeshwara, Sankaranarayanan, and Gokarna. These places are together are the Parashurama Kshetras. People also believe that these temples are on the land of Parashurama from the sea.

The official website of the Kollur Mookambika Temple is: http://www.kollurmookambika.org/

What are the timings of the Kollur Mookambika Temple?

Here are the timings of Kollur Mookambika Temple:

Timings	From	To
Morning Darshan	5:00 AM	1:30 PM
Evening Darshan	3:00 PM	9:00 PM
General Darshan Timings: 1	5:00 AM	7:15 AM
General Darshan Timings: 2	7:45 AM	11:30 AM
General Darshan Timings: 3	12:00 PM	12:20 PM
General Darshan Timings: 4	12:45 PM	1:30 PM
General Darshan Timings: 5	3:00 PM	6:30 PM
General Darshan Timings: 6	5:00 PM	9:00 PM

What are the poojas and sevas that take place at Kollur Mookambika Temple?

Kollur Mookambika Poojas — There are a total of 64 poojas and sevas that take place at the Kollur Mookambika Temple. The Kollur Mookambika Temple is “The Temple of knowledge and wisdom”.

The below-mentioned poojas take place every day at Kollur Mookambika Temple:

Ritual	Timings
Danthadavan Bali Pooja	7:30 AM
Udayakaala Pooja	7:30 AM
Mangala Aarti	8:00 AM
Pradoshana Pooja	6:00 PM

At the Kollur Mookambika Temple, around 64 Sevas and Poojas can be performed dedicated to the Goddess. Listed below are some of the main sevas that one can perform:

Sahasranama Kumkumarchana: The pooja includes doing archana to the goddess with Kumkum along with the recital of the 1000 names of the goddess.
Ashtottara Kumkumarchana: The pooja includes doing archana to the Goddess with Kumkum along with the recital of the 108 names in a devoted manner.
Panchamrita and Phala Panchamrita: The Lingam of Adishakti is bathed with Panchamrit which includes Milk, Sugar, Curd, Honey and Ghee. The Phala Panchamrit includes the addition of fruit in the ritual, usually a banana.
Ksheerabhisheam: The Lingam of Adishakti is bathed with Cow Milk amongst the recital of several mantras and shlokas.
Ekadasha Rudrabhishekam: This pooja is an elaborate form of the Rudrabhishekam. In the pooja, the priests worship all the eleven Rudras of Lord Shiva by reciting shlokas like Laghu – Nyasam and the Rudra Trishati. They also recite the Rudram eleven times as per instructions in the Shiv Purana.
Mookambika Alankara Pooja: The Goddess Mokkambika is adorned with all her jewels and worshipped reverently at Kollur Mookambika Temple.
Chandika Homam: The Chandika Homam requires the presence of 7 priests. They chant the 700 verses and hymns from the Devi Mahatmayam. Offerings of the Payasam (sweet pudding or Kheer) is made to Agni during the chantings. The devotee must arrive a day before the Homam. The Homam begins at 8 AM in the morning and ends at 11:30 AM.
Naamkaranam: The naming ceremony of the infants can also take place with the blessings of the Goddess at Kollur Mookambika Temple.
Vidyarambam Pooja: The children along with the parents can perform this pooja dedicating it to Goddess Saraswati to initiate the educational career of their offspring. The pooja takes place between 6:45 AM to 1 PM daily for children above the age of 3.
Udayastamana Pooja: This is a unique type of pooja takes place for one full day, starting from dawn till dusk. There is a total of 18 poojas for the devotees throughout the day.
Anna Santharpane: The devotee can provide Annadanam for the pilgrims for one whole day on obtaining a receipt.

Besides these poojas, one can also perform other poojas like Parivara Pooja, Pushpanjali, Mahatrimudhara, Ganahoma, Nithya Naivedya, Nanda Deepa, Punyaha Prayaschita, Thulabhara, and Vahana Pooja.

The Kashaya Theertham is made of ginger, pepper, cardamom, lavang and jaggery. It is a ritual that is in practice since the time of Sri Adi Shankaracharya who introduced this Theertham as a medicinal drink.

What is the significance of the Kollur Mookambika Temple?

Devi Kollur Mookambika is said to be the supreme goddess, praying to her is equivalent to praying to all the gods and goddesses.

The significance of Kollur Mookambika Temple is that Goddess Mookambika is the Adi Shakti as she embodies both Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti (Parvati). On the left side of the Linga, as an Adi Shakti Goddess Mahakali, Goddess Mahalakshmi, and Goddess Saraswathi are present as one.

The idol of Goddess Mookambika consists of the material called the Panchaloha element. The Panchaloha is traditionally an alloy of five metals. The composition of the alloy was a secret for several centuries and is often finds mention in the Shilpa Shastras. Devotees also believe that worshipping idols made of the Panchaloha material imparts balance, self-confidence, health, fortune and peace of mind.

Goddess Mookambika’s idol has three eyes and four arms. She also holds a Sri Chakra in one hand and a conch in the other. On the right side, as an Udbhavalinga, Mookambika integrates with Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva.

A gold chain divides the Linga into two – the larger left side and the smaller right side. The left side represents Goddess Mookambika or Parvati and the right side represents Lord Shiva. No Abhishekam takes place for the idol. The Abhishekams take place for the Linga only.

The Kollur Mookambika Temple is one of the seven Mukti Sthalas of Karnataka. The presiding deity is Goddess Mookambika in a unique form of a Swayambhulinga. Devotees also believe that Sri Adi Shankaracharya himself installed the idol of the Goddess. Also, according to beliefs, Sri Mookambika embodies all the Gods of the realm in herself and thus worshipping her is equivalent to worshipping all the Gods at the same time.

People believe that Sri Adi Shankaracharya had a dream during his penance in which Goddess Shakti appeared. He later installed the idol resembling the image of her in the shrine. The Shankara Simhasanam inside the Kollur Mookambika Temple is the place where he meditated and had a vision of the Goddess.

Ratholsavam

The Annual Ratha Festival lasts for ten days in the month of March – April. During these ten days, the devotees take Goddess Sri Mookambika around the town in different Vahanas or vehicles and worshipped with reverence.

On the first day, they raise the flag, known as the Dhvajarohana.

On the second day, they take the Goddess around the village in a Peacock chariot and perform the Ashtavadana Seva for her in the Saraswati Mandapam.

The Katte Utsava and the Ashtavadhana Seva take place in the evening for the Goddess in the Saraswati Mandapam on the third day.

On the fourth day, the Katte Pooja takes place at the Sri Gopala Krishna Temple. They then take Sri Mookambika to the Saraswati mandapam in a different chariot named Pushparatham.

They then transport the Goddess to the Saraswati Mandapam in the Rishaba Vahana on the fifth day.

On the sixth day, they take the Goddess around the town to the Saraswati Mandapam in the Gaja Vahana.

Then they take the idol of the Goddess Sri Mookambika Devi to the Saraswati Mandapam on the seventh day after the Pradosha Pooja and the Rangapooja take place. Then they take the Goddess to the west side of the Mandapam in the Simma Vahana.

The eighth day includes the celebration of the Maha Rathotsava, in which devotees take the Goddess in the Brahma Ratham and perform various Poojas for her in the evening.

The Churnotsava (smearing of the Goddess with flowers and gold paste), Okuli (devotees and priests smear themselves with coloured water), and the Teppotsava (taking the Goddess around in a float on the Sowparnika River) occurs on the ninth day.

On the tenth day the lowering of the flag, Poorna Kumbhabhishekam, and the Prasadam distribution also take place.

What is the history of Kollur Mookambika Temple?

Documented evidence in the history of Kollur Mookambika Temple dates back to 1200 years. People also believe that the Great Parashurama himself built the first Kollur Moombika temple. People worship the Linga since the times of the Sage Kola Maharishi and Sri Adi Shankaracharya installed the idol of the Goddess.

The King Halugulla Veera Sangayya constructed the stone walls inside the Kollur Mookambika Temple and created several of the present structures under the orders of Rani Chennamaji.

Many have contributed graciously to the development of the Temple. The legendary Rani Chennamma offered precious emerald jewellery to the Goddess which she still adorns. The Vijayanagara Empire King Krishnadevaraya presented a Gold Mask which is kept as a Temple treasure. King Chennamaji presented a Gold face for the Lingam. The Late MG Ramachandran, CM of Tamilnadu presented a Silversword to the Goddess.

The legend of Kollur Mookambika Temple

Story of the origins of the Kollur Mookambika Temple and the importance of the region of Kollur are mentioned in the Skanda Puranam. The legend begins with the Tapas or Penance of Sage Kola Maharishi. At the same time, a demon by the name of Kaumasura was also doing penance for Lord Shiva. He wanted immortality and great strength as a boon from Lord Shiva.

The Gods were aware that if he achieves his boon, he will unleash a reign of terror on Earth. Therefore, when Lord Shiva appeared before him, Goddess Parvati made him dumb or Mooka. As a result, he was unable to ask for a boon and came to be known as the Mookasura. The event enraged him and he started disrupting the penance of Kola Maharishi. The Sage then requested the help of the Goddess in annihilating the demon.

So, She appeared in an integrated form imbibing the powers of the Trimurti as well as of the other Goddesses Lakshmi and Saraswati. Then She killed Mookasura and hence became famous as Goddess Mookambika. And on the request of Kola Maharishi, she stayed at the place in her divine integrated form.

Another story

As per one legend associated with Sri Adi Shankaracharya, one day he was unable to stand up after his meditation. According to beliefs, Goddess Mookambika himself prepared a medicine for him with a combination of herbs from the Kodachadri hills nearby. Sri Adi Shankaracharya recovered and eventually introduced the custom of preparing the Kashayam Theertham for the visiting pilgrims so that they attain good health.

The mythology associated with River Sowparnika, the perennial river that flows beside the Kollur Mookambika Temple is also worth learning. People also believe that a Garuda named Suparna prayed on the banks of the river to relieve his mother of all the sufferings and bad luck. The Kollur Mookambika Devi appeared before him and granted his wishes. Hence, the River became famous as the name of the Garuda (Sowparnika). This river contains rich extracts of herbals as it passes through the Kodachadri hills.

What is the architecture of Mookambika Temple like?

How-to-reach-Kollur-Mookambika — The Kollur Mookambika Temple dates back to the reign of the Keladi Kingdom.

The architecture of the Kollur Mookambika Temple is unique and belongs to the Keladi Kingdom period. The Kollur Mookambika Temple also comprises of the Sanctum or the Garbhagriha, a hall and the Lakshmi Mantapam. The Sanctum has a quadrangular shape with a Vimana Gopuram.

The tower of the Sanctum has a covering of gold. Besides the main shrine, several other shrines for Lord Subramanya, Dashabhuja Ganapathi, Anjaneya, Chandramouleeshwara, and Gopalakrishna are also there. Behind the Swayambhu Linga of Goddess Mookambika, an idol of the Goddess is there. The idol of Goddess Mookambika has three eyes and four arms. She also holds a Sri Chakra in one hand and a conch in the other.

What is the dress code of Kollur Mookambika Temple?

The Kollur Mookambika Temple administration requests the male devotees to remove their shirts and vests before entering the temple premises. Clothes such as Coats, Hats, Turbans, Bermuda, and Shorts, and Lungi are not allowed inside the temple. Women are requested to dress decently.

Women who have delivered a newborn should not enter the Temple for the first eleven days after the birth. Pregnant women are not allowed inside the temple after 7 months.

What are the festivals celebrated at Kollur Mookambika?

Kollur Mookambika Temple Festivals — The Ratholsavam is one of the most famous festivals celebrated at the Kollur Mookambika Temple

Some of the festivals celebrated at Kollur Mookambika Temple are:

Navratri: The festival occurs during the month of October for ten days. The festival period is the most auspicious time to worship Goddess Parvati and her other forms. On the tenth day, known as the Vijayadasami, devotees conduct the practice of Aksharabhyasam. It is a ritual in which young kids and their parents participate and perform the act of writing on a plate of rice as an initiation to their educational career. Several Poojas for the Goddess take place throughout the ten days like Ranga Pooja, Suvasini Pooja, Lalitha Vruta, Kalpoktha Pooja and the Ghata Sthapana. On the nineth day, the Maha Chandika Yagna and a Pushparathotsavam also take place.
Annual Ratha Festival: The Ratholsavam lasts for ten days in the month of March – April. During these ten days, the devotees take Goddess Sri Mookambika around the town in different Vahanas or vehicles and worshipped with reverence.
Mahashivaratri: The festival occurs in February or March. It signifies the marriage of Lord Shiva with Goddess Parvati. Some also believe that this is the day when Lord Shiva absorbed the poison that turned him blue during the churning of Amrit episode in mythology. Devotees keep fast and sing bhajans throughout the night and into the day. They also perform Special Poojas for the Linga.
Ugadi: On this day, special preparations made with Neem will be offered to the Goddess throughout the day. In the evening, between 5:30 PM to 6 PM, the Goddess will be kept at the Saraswati Mandapam. The Mangala Aarti is performed. The “Panchanga Shravana” is held after that. This ritual involves predicting important events of the year like Rain, political affairs of the country, agriculture and national occurrences.
Ashtabhandha Brahmakalashotsava: This auspicious celebration happens once in 12 years. The Linga is given a ritualistic bath with 1008 Kalasas of holy water.

How to reach Kollur Mookambika Temple?

Here’s how to reach Kollur Mookambika Temple:

Air: The nearest airport is the Bajpe International Airport, Mangalore at a distance of 140 km.
Train: The Kundapura and the Byndoor railway stations are at a distance of 32 km and 28 km respectively.
Road: Moreover, KSRTC buses run from major cities in Karnataka.

Where to stay nearby?

The Kollur Mookambika Temple administration has constructed a few Guest Houses which provide a wide range of rooms that can be booked as per the devotee’s needs. Non – Deluxe rooms, deluxe rooms, air-Conditioned rooms, and dormitories are also available for rent at a nominal rate.

The Guesthouses are The Lalithamba Guest House, The Sowparnika Guest House, Matha Chatra Guest House and the Jagadambika Guest House.

Apart from the Guesthouses run by the Kollur Mookambika Temple Administration, several private hotels and lodges are also available for accommodation. Some of the popular options are the Bhagirathi Tourist Home, Kairala Residency, and the Mookambika Palace.

Where to eat nearby?

The Kollur Mookambika Temple administration provides free meals in the temple premises at 12 PM and at 8 PM to all pilgrims who wish to eat. Besides that, a number of small vegetarian restaurants are available outside the temple complex. The cuisine is mostly South Indian.

What are some of the temples near Kollur?

Some of the temples near Kollur Mookambika Temple are:

Maranakatte Sri Brahma Lingeshwara Temple: The famous temple is at a distance of 25 km from Kollur. People believe that Goddess Mookambika performed a Marana Homam here after killing the demon Mookasura. Also, the temple is of Lord Brahmalingeshwara along with Malyali Yakshi and Vata Yakshi. A Sri Chakra is there in front of the sanctum. Moreover, Sri Adi Shankaracharya himself installed it.
Kumbhashi Sri Siddhi Vinayak Temple, Annegude: The Temple is also one of the seven Mukti Sthalas of Karnataka 45 km away from Kollur. The legendary temple is for Lord Ganapathi. Some also believe that this is the place where Lord Ganesha blessed Bheema (one of the Pandavas) with a sword with which he killed Kumbhasura, a demon.
Byndoor Seneshvara Temple: The temple is 28 km away from Kollur. The history of the Seneshvara Temple runs back to many centuries as per evidence. However, devotees believe that the temple exists since the Treta Yuga. They also believe that Lord Rama installed the Linga. He had initially wanted to build the bridge to Lanka from here but Sage Bindumaharishi advised him against it.
Bagvadi Mahisamardini Temple: The temple is for Goddess Mahishasura Mardini, and is 30 km away from Kollur. According to beliefs, Goddess Mahakali killed the buffalo faced demon by the name of Mahishasura at this place. The Temple is around 1000 years old. Also, Dugappa Nayaka constructed it.
Saukuru Durgaparameshwari: The temple is at Gullwadi in the Udupi district at a distance of 31 km from Kollur. The temple is for Goddess Durga. Devotees also come here to pray for good marital life, freedom from financial problems, removal of fear psychosis and for good health.
The Kodachadri Mountain Range: The mountain range is at a distance of 25 km from the Kollur Mookambika Temple. This hill is extremely pious as devotees believe that this hill was a part of the Sanjeevini hill. They also believe that the hill possesses 64 varieties of rare herbal plants and 64 sacred springs. Moreover, it is here that the famous Sage Kola Maharishi performed penance and Goddess Mookambika created a waterfall for the use of the Sage.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kollur Mookambika Temple

Is the Kollur Mookambika Temple open throughout the year?

Yes, the Kollur Mookambika Temple is open all 365 days of the year.

What is the entry fee?

The entry to the Kollur Mookambika Temple is free of cost.

Is there any online darshan facility available?

No. There is no facility for online darshan available.

Is there any facility for specially-abled and senior citizens?

No. There is no facility for specially-abled and senior citizens.

What is the weather like during the summer?

The summers in Kollur starts from April and continue until June. The summers here can be very hot and dry. Temperatures during the daytime often go up to 45 º C.

What are winters like in Kollur?

In Kollur, winters start in October and continue until March. The temperatures during this time range from around 20 º C to 28 º C. The weather during this time is slightly warm but pleasant.

If you have any questions about The Kollur Mookambika Temple, please leave a comment below, and we will get back to you within one hour.

Kukke Subramanya Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

July 11, 2022, Sasidhar Darla 90 Comments Filed Under: Karnataka Temples Tagged With: Mukti Sthala, Other Temples

Kukke Subramanya Temple, one of the seven Mukti Sthalas of Karnataka, is dedicated to Lord Subrahmanya. It is most famous for the Sarpa Samskara Pooja performed to get rid of Kala Sarpa Dosha. Also, the main idol of the temple shows Lord Subramanya standing above the Serpents, Vasuki and Shesha.

Kukke Subramanya Temple – Facts

Deity	Lord Subramanya (Lord Karthikeya)
Location	Subramanya, Karnataka
Entry Fee	Free
Best Time to Visit	October to March
Darshan Timings	6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Poojas	Sarpa Samskara Pooja, Ashlesha Bali
Festivals	Ugadi, Ratholsavam, Mahashivratri

Kukke Subramanya Temple

Kukke Subramanya Temple Video

The Kukke Subramanya Temple main entrance faces west. The pilgrims have to go around the sanctum to reach its entrance in the east. Also, the Garuda pillar is present between the sanctum and the portico entrance.

The official website of the Kukke Subramanya Temple is:
https://www.kukke.org/en/home.aspx

What are the timings of the Kukke Subramanya Temple?

The Kukke Subramanya Temple remains open daily between 06:00 AM to 08:00 PM. There is an afternoon break in the darshan from 01:30 PM to 03:00 PM. During this time, the devotees can take part in various poojas and sevas. Prasadam timings of the temple are from 12:30 pm to 01:30 pm.

Here are the timings of Kukke Subramanya Temple:

Ritual	From	To
Morning Darshan	6:00 AM	1:30 PM
Evening Darshan	3:00 PM	8:00 PM
Ushakala Pooja and Go-Pooja	5:30 AM	6:00 AM
Noon Pooja	10:00 AM	12:15 PM
Theertha Prasada	12:30 PM	1:30 PM
Anna Santharpane (Annadanam)	11:30 AM	2:00 PM
Hannukai Seva	3:30 PM	6:00 PM
Nisha Pooja	6:00 PM	7:45 PM

What are the poojas and sevas performed at Kukke Subramanya Temple?

Ashlesha Bali: It takes place at the Kukke Subramanya Temple in two slots – one at 7:00 AM and the other at 9:15 AM. Devotees also believe that the months of Shravan (June-July), Karthikai (November) and the Margashira are the most auspicious months to perform the pooja.
Nagaprathishtha: This pooja relieves one from the curse of the Sarpa Dosha. It takes place in the Nagaprathishtha Mandapam in the outer quadrangle of the Kukke Subramanya Temple. The pooja can also take place on all days except on Ekadashi and fasting days.
Mahapooja: All the poojas and rituals of the day take place for God on behalf of the devotee’s name.
Panchamritha Abhishekam: The priests bathe the idol of God with the five Amrits (Panch Amrit) which are Milk, Ghee, Honey, Curd, and Sugar.
Karthik Pooja: A special pooja, complete with the recital of hymns from the Karthik Purana and Lamp offerings, are done there for the God on behalf of the devotee.
Sahasra Namarchana: The archana takes place by reciting His thousand names and praising him on behalf of the devotee.
Satyanarayana Pooja: The pooja is for Lord Vishnu. It can take place on any day but it is extremely auspicious if one performs it on the eve of Chithra Pournami. This pooja also helps devotees attain peace, prosperity. It also removes obstacles and makes them free from negative thoughts. The pooja usually begins with Ganapathi Pooja and then the Navagraha Pooja.
Besides these Sevas, one can also perform the Thulabharam Seva, Ear piercing, Choula (mundan), Nandadeepa for one month, Panchakkajaya, Naamkarana, and Vehicle Pooja.

Sarpa Samskara for Kalasarpa Dosha

The Sarpa Samskara Pooja is performed by the people who have Sarpa Dosha in their fortune. The Sarpadosha is a curse affecting a person who has knowingly or unknowingly harmed a Sarpa (snake or a serpent) in this birth or in the previous births.

Devotees believe that by performing poojas like the Sarpadosha and the Ashlesha Bali, one can relieve himself from the ill-effects of this curse. In the temple, the seva requires the devotee to stay for 2 days. In one seva, a maximum number of 4 persons can attend the pooja. The seva can take place on all days except Dasami, fasting days like the Ekadasis, Grahan, Shivaratri and during the temple festival.

What is the significance of the Kukke Subramanya Temple?

The significance of the Kukke Subramanya is that it is among the seven Mukti Sthalas in Karnataka. The other six are Udupi, Kollur, Kumbhashi, Kodeshwara, Sankaranarayanan, and Gokarna. These places are together the Parashurama Kshetras. Devotees also believe that the land of these Temples belonged to Parashurama from the sea.

A cluster of Lingas called as the “Kukke Lingas” is in the northern corner of the Kukke Subramanya Temple. There is a conflict with respect to the history and the origin of the prefix “Kukke” before the Lingas and Lord Subrahmanya.

According to some people, that the word Kukke meaning Basket in Kannada is there because, in ancient times, devotees worshipped these Lingas together in a basket. However, some other explanations put forward are Kukke derives from the old Sanskrit word “Kukshi” which means Cave. Also, some people believe that Vasuki, the serpent installed these Lingas initially in a cave.

Shrines for Lord Bhairava, Lakshmi Narasimha, Lord Ganapathi, and Umamaheshwara are also there around the Kukke Subramanya Temple Complex.

Ancient scriptures like the Subrahmanya Mahatmaya mention that Lord Subrahmanya installed Shiva Lingas in three locations around the Kukke Subramanya Temple. Several Gods and Goddesses followed him and installed small Lingas as a mark of respect to Lord Shiva. As time went by, people collected all these Lingas and kept them inside the Kukke Subramanya Temple for worship.

Kukke Subramanya Temple in the Satya Yuga

The Kukke Subramanya Temple and its surroundings have played vital roles in various Yugas of the Hindu calendar. Some people also believe that in the Satya Yuga (first of the four Yugas), Lord Subrahmanya was anointed as the Senapati of the demigods on the banks of the stream Dhara.

In the Treta Yuga, Lord Parashurama visited the temple and the stream to absolve himself of the sins of eliminating the Kshatriya race twenty one times. In the Dvapara Yuga, Samba, son of Lord Krishna came here and bathed in the water of the Dhara to relieve himself from leprosy.

The Kukke Subramanya Temple is also extremely significant to the followers of Lord Vishnu. The Kashikatte Ganapathi idol is just 250 meters away from the temple. Also, devotees believe that Sage Narada himself installed it. Devotees also believe that the Pandavas arrived at the Kukke Subramanya Temple and paid their respects to the Lord.

Samputa Narsingha

On the south-eastern side of the Kukke Subramanya Temple Complex, a shrine for Samputa Narasingha is also there. Devotees believe Sri Madhavacharya established the shrine. Some also believe that when Sri Madhavacharya visited Badrinath, he met Ved Vyas (one of the seven immortals believed to be still roaming the Earth).

Ved Vyas then gave him eight Saligrama Shilas (they are fossilized stones, each representing Lord Vishnu). Six of the Shilas are worshiped in the Kukke Subrahmanya Temple.

Apart from these Shilas, he was also given a Narasimha Saligrama which is believed to be so powerful that, if uncovered will destroy the three worlds. Sri Madhavacharya put this Narasimha Saligrama along with 22 Laxminarayana Shilas and five of the Saligrama Shilas inside a box (Samputa) and established it inside the shrine. The Box or the Samputa is worshiped to date.

Relief from Sarpa Dosha

Thousands of pilgrims visit the Kukke Subramanya Temple to perform the Ashlesha Bali Pooja and the Sarpa Dosha Pooja from all over the country. Lord Subrahmanya is the protector from the Kaalsarpa dosha and the Sarpa Dosha.

It is believed that people whose lives have been affected by the Sarpa Dosha should offer Sarpa Samskara Pooja at Kukke Subramanya Temple as it will relieve one from long-suffering ailments, infertility, and blindness. It is believed that by taking a dip in the Kumaradhara Theertha, one can obtain the cure for severe skin diseases like Leprosy.

What is the history of the Kukke Subramanya Temple?

According to history, a vivid description of the Kukke Subramanya Temple is there in the chapter ‘Sahyadrikhanda’ in Skanda Puranam. As per the Puranas, the Subrahmanya Kshetra is on the banks of the River Dhara. The place Subrahmanya was famous as Kukke Pattanna in ancient times.

In the scriptures of “Shankara Vijaya”, Anandagiri also mentions that Sri Adi Shankaracharya visited the place and has referred the place as “Bhaje Kukke Lingam” in his work “Subrahmanya Bhujangaprayata Stotram”.

The legend of Kukke Subramanya Temple

The legend of the origins of the Kukke Subramanya Temple is there in detail in the Skanda Puranam. The snake king Vasuki was hiding in the cave called Biladvara (located near the temple) to escape from Garuda who was hunting for snakes to satisfy his hunger. Vasuki was a great devotee of Lord Shiva. Garuda spotted Vasuki and started attacking it viciously.

The great Sage Kashyapa Muni then intervened and instructed Garuda to go to the Ramanaka islands (present-day Fiji) to hunt for snakes. He also requested Vasuki to pray to Lord Shiva for protection. After his penance, Lord Shiva appeared to Vasuki and informed him that in the next Kalpa, his son Karthikeya (Subrahmanya) will come and reside there to bless and protect them.

Eventually in the next Kalpa, after killing the demon Tarakasura, Lord Subrahmanya along with his brother Lord Ganesha arrived in Kumara Parvatha. Lord Indra received them with good wishes. He offered Lord Subrahmanya a marriage proposal with his daughter Devasena. The Lord agreed and the divine marriage took place on the Kumara Parvatha mountain.

Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, Lord Brahma attended the marriage on Margashira Shuddha Shasthi. Vasuki, the serpent was also present at the ceremony. Lord Subrahmanya gave him his darshan and promised to stay with them for their protection.

Another version of the story

There is another version of the story present behind the origin of the Kukke Subramanya Temple. Devotees also believe that once an argument happened between Katru and Vinatha, wives of Sage Kashyapa. They decided that the loser of the argument will become the slave of the winner. Katru lost the argument and along with her snake children, became a servant of Vinatha.

Garuda, Vinatha’s son harassed the snake children and wanted to harm Vasuki. Vasuki requested lord Shiva to help him. Lord Shiva then asked Lord Subrahmanya to protect the snakes from Garuda. Lord Subrahmanya arrived at the place and gave refuge to the snakes from Garuda. On the insistence of the snakes, he took abode here among the snakes.

As per another legend, after killing the demon Tarakasura in the battle, Lord Subrahmanya washed his sword in the adjoining water stream ‘Dhara’. Henceforth, the stream became famous as the Kumaradhara.

What is the dress code for the Kukke Subramanya Temple?

The Kukke Subramanya Temple administration requests the male devotees to remove their shirts and vests before entering the temple premises. Clothes such as coats, hats, turbans, bermudas, and shorts, and lungi are not allowed inside the temple. Women are requested to dress decently.

What are the festivals celebrated at Kukke Subramanya Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Kukke Subramanya temple are:

Champashashti Mahothsavam: The Kukke Subramanya Temple Ratha Yatra takes place during the month of Karthika Margashira. Devotees decorate the idol of Lord Subrahmanya and take out a procession around the streets of Subrahmanya. They take the Lord around in different Vahanas like Sheshavahana, Ashwa Vahana, Mayura Vahana, and finally the Brahma Ratha on the Maharathotsavam day. The temple also celebrates the Laksha Deepotsavam, where devotees light a lakh Deepams and worship them. The temple also distributes the Moola Mrithike Prasadam to the devotees on these days.
Makara Sankranti: The festival signifies the beginning of the harvest season. People pray for a bountiful harvest on the day. In the Kukke Subramanya Temple, the Kukke Lingas are taken out of the sanctum and are taken around the town in a procession.
Mesha Sankranama: The festival falls on the day when the Sun enters the zodiac Mesha (Aries). It represents the spring equinox. The festival occurs in the month of April. Several poojas and bhajans are performed for god on the day.
Mahashivaratri: The festival occurs in February or March. It signifies the marriage of Lord Shiva with Goddess Parvati. Some also believe that this is the day when Lord Shiva absorbed the poison that turned him blue during the churning of Amrit episode in mythology. Devotees keep fast and also sing bhajans throughout the night and into the day. Special poojas take place for the Linga. Thousands of pilgrims from in and around Karnataka visit the shrine to receive blessings from the God themselves.
Naag Panchami: The festival occurs on the fifth day of the full moon in the month of Shravan (June). The day is for the worshiping of the Nagas or serpents that are the lowest Loka of the Seven Lokas or realms of the universe. Devotees worship them for their blessings.

How to reach Kukke Subramanya Temple?

Here’s how to reach Kukke Subramanya Temple:

Air: The nearest airport is the Bajpe International Airport at Mangalore at a distance of 120 km.
Train: The nearest railway station is the Subrahmanya Road station at a distance of 12 km from the Temple.
Road: KSRTC operates buses from all major cities and towns in Karnataka to Subramanya.

Where to stay near Kukke Subramanya Temple?

Kukke Subramanya Temple administration has several Guest Houses and Choultries that that one can book for a stay. The Guesthouses are Akshara, Ashlesha, Karthikeya Kripa, Kumara Kripa, Skanda Kripa, a choultry and a Temple Cottage. Besides these, several privately owned Lodges and Hotels operate out of the Subrahmanya town. They offer basic facilities and are very clean.

Where to eat nearby?

The Kukke Subramanya Temple provides Annadanam free of cost every afternoon and evening to all the devotees. Apart from that, several small hotels are available to the pilgrims. They mainly serve only vegetarian South Indian cuisine. Especially, alcohol and smoking must not take place around the temple premises.

What are some temples near Kukke Subramanya Temple?

Some of the temples near Kukke Subramanya Temple are:

Sowthadka Shri Mahaganapathi Temple: The temple is for Lord Ganapathi. It is 3 km away from the town of Kokkada in the Dakshina Kannada district. The temple lies 35 km from the Kukke Subrahmanya Temple. In Kannada, “Southe” means Cucumber and “Adka” means a vast plain. The idol of Lord Ganapathi is without a Garbhagriha and is open for 24 hours.
Somnatheshwara Temple: The temple is about 2.5 km from the temple, on the banks of the river Kumaradhara. The temple is for Lord Shiva. The Linga of Lord Shiva is at least 1000 years ago. The Subrahmanya Matha takes care of the administration.
Sri Manjunatha Temple: The famous temple of Dharmasthala located along the banks of River Nethravathi is situated 55 km away from the Kukke Subrahmanya Temple. The main deity of the temple is Lord Manjunatha, another form of Lord Shiva. Also, along with Lord Shiva and Parvati, devotees also worship the Gods of Jainism Chandraprabha and others.
Kollur Mookambika Temple: The famous and revered Sri Mookambikai Temple is in Kollur which is 150 km from Horanadu. The presiding deity is Goddess Mookambikai also known as Devi and in front of her idol, is a Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva. Also, the Linga has two unequal parts. The Smaller right part represents Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva and the larger Left part represents Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati. Five of the 12 jyotirlingas are in Maharashtra.
Sringeri Sharada Peetham: The holy town of Sringeri is at a distance of about 93 km from Horanadu. The temple was the first of the four Ammaya Peetham established by Sri Adi Shankaracharya in 8th century AD. Sri Sharadamba believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Saraswati is the presiding deity of the temple.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kukke Subramanya Temple

Is the Kukke Subramanya Temple open throughout the year?

Yes, the Kukke Subramanya Temple is open all 365 days of the year.

What is the entry fee?

The entry to the Kukke Subramanya Temple is free of cost.

Is there any online darshan facility available?

No. There is no facility for online darshan available.

Is there any facility for specially-abled and senior citizens?

No. There is no facility for specially-abled and senior citizens.

What is the weather like during the summer?

The summers in Subramanya starts from April and continue until June. The summers here can be very hot and dry. Temperatures during the daytime often go up to 45 º C.

What are winters like in Subramanya?

In Subramanya, winters start in October and continue until March. The temperatures during this time range from around 20 º C to 28 º C. The weather during this time is slightly warm but pleasant.

If you have any questions about The Kukke Subramanya Temple, please leave a comment below, and we will get back to you within one hour.