Temples

Karnataka’s temples are known for their architectural beauty and incredible history associated with them. They not only take you back into history but also let you peep into the religious devotion of locals towards their deity. They look beautiful with some ancient architectural styles which add to their beauty and uniqueness.

Kollur Mookambika Temple
Located in Kollur, this temple is one of the most famous temples in India. It was constructed amidst the hills of Kodachadri around 1200 years ago. The temple has been dedicated to goddess Parvati and pilgrims from all over the world visit here to worship her. It is believed that that goddess Parvati killed a demon named Kamasura here. The best time to pay a visit to this temple is during the Navaratri festival.

Udupi Srikrishna Temple
This temple is known for housing a unique Krishna idol facing exactly opposite to the entrance. Pilgrims see the deity’s face through a window and not from the front gate. It is believed that there was an ardent devotee of Lord Krishna, Kanakadasa, who wasn’t allowed to enter the temple due to his caste. So, he started standing at the back of the temple to pray. Lord was so impressed by his devotion that he turned towards him. 

Dharmasthala Manjunatha Temple
Dharmasthala Manjunatha temple edges the banks of Netravati River and remains one of the most visited temples of Karnataka. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Over 10000 people from different walks of life manage this huge temple. Devotees visiting here are treated with free food. The temple hosts the famous Lakshadeepa festival during November or December.

Gokarna Mahableshwar Temple
This is another temple dedicated to lord Shiva. It is located in North Kannada district and is known with the name of the Kashi of the South or Dakshina Kashi. It is said that this temple has great powers and it remains a popular pilgrim spot in the state.

Murudeshwara Temple
Murudeshwara temple captures the heart of pilgrims due to a huge Shiva idol placed here. It is the second tallest statue of lord Shiva on the planet. The temple is placed on the beach of Arabian sea and has a gigantic tower of 20 storeys. Visitors buy a ticket and climb the tower to catch beautiful vistas of the surroundings.

Kukke Subramanya Temple
Located in Sullia Taluk in South Kannada District, this temple has blissful vistas of nature all around it which include rivers, hills and forests. It has been dedicated to lord Subramanya or the lord of Serpents. The temple has many legends linked to it and remains busy all year long.

Other popular Temples in Karnataka are:

• Kateel Durgaparameshwari temple
• Horanadu Annapurneshwari temple
• Guddattu Mahaganapathi temple
• Sri Virupaksheshwara temple