Things to do in Dharmasthala

Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara

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  The temple is a unique pilgrimage site, known for its confluence of faiths, bringing together Shaiva, Vaishnava, and Jain traditions.

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  The temple, over 800 years old, is dedicated to Lord Manjunatheshwara, a form of Lord Shiva.

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  The architecture is inspired by Kerala temple style, featuring a square plan and a steep pyramidal roof made of wood and gold-plated copper plates.

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  A notable feature is the Shri Chandranatha Swamy Basadi, a highly revered Jain shrine within the complex, adding to Dharmasthala's cultural and spiritual depth.

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  The temple is renowned for its unique interfaith rituals, where Vaishnavite priests conduct worship for a Shiva deity. During festivals like Maha Shivaratri, it attracts large crowds, offering a spiritually enriching experience.

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  Aarti Timings: Morning - 6:30 am to 7:00 am | Evening - 7:00 pm to 7:30 pm

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  Temple Timings: 6:30 am to 1:00 pm | 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Other Popular Temples in Dharmasthala

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  Annappa Betta: A hill shrine dedicated to Shri Annappa Swamy, it offers a tranquil retreat with a spiritual ambiance. Visitors love it for its peaceful vibe and connection to local legends. Temple Timings: 7:00 am to 6:00 PM

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  Shree Rama Kshethra: Dedicated to Lord Rama, this temple offers a serene environment for prayer and reflection. Devotees visit for its spiritual ambiance and its proximity to the main temple complex. Temple Timings: 6:00 am to 8:00 pm

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  Southadka Shri Mahaganapathi Kshetra: This open-air shrine is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and allows the devotees to offer prayers directly to the deity under the open sky, providing a unique spiritual experience. Temple Timings: 6:30 am to 7:30 pm

Must-visit Attractions in Dharmasthala

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  Lord Bahubali Statue: Standing at 39 feet, this monolithic statue atop Ratnagiri Hill offers a breathtaking view of Dharmasthala. The site, symbolising peace & renunciation, is a must-visit for its spiritual significance and stunning vistas.

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  Vintage Car Museum: A treasure trove of vintage cars owned by Dr. Veerendra Heggade, this museum is a delight for automotive enthusiasts.

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  Manjusha Museum: Housing an impressive array of artifacts, including ancient scripts, religious objects, and household items, this museum is a cultural gem.

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  Netravathi River Barrage: A scenic spot, offering panoramic views of the Netravathi River, this barrage is a peaceful retreat. It's ideal for nature lovers seeking a serene experience amidst lush surroundings.

Best Areas to Stay in Dharmasthala

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  Near Dharmasthala Temple Complex: This area offers the convenience of being close to the temple, making it ideal for pilgrims to immerse themselves in the spiritual atmosphere.

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  Ujire: Located just a short drive from Dharmasthala, Ujire is known for its scenic beauty and offers a quieter, more relaxed environment while still providing easy access to the temple.

Good to Know Before You Travel

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  How to Reach: Fly into Mangalore International Airport (80 km). You can also catch a train to the Mangalore Railway Station (75 km).

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  What to Buy: Pick up spiritual items like religious books or holy water from the temple, and souvenirs like brass bells and statues of Lord Manjunatheshwara. The local markets offer a variety of handicrafts, including wooden carvings and incense.

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  What to Eat: Try the local Tuluva cuisine, which includes dishes like Neer Dosa, Kori Rotti, and Benne Dosa. Don’t miss out on the traditional South Indian offerings like Sambar and Vada.