The Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala is the sanctuary of righteousness and sanctity. This 800-year-old temple is the most revered and popular landmark of piety in South India and is graced by the idol of Lord Manjunatheshwara. Assuming the form of the Shivalinga, the deity is a form of lord Shiva. Millions of pilgrims from different corners of the world visit the temple to submit themselves in prayer and witness the grace and piety of this magnificent temple. Besides the pilgrims, the lovers of history and architecture also flock to the temple owing to its immaculate architecture and rich history.
The architecture of Sri Dharmasthala Temple is a blend of traditional South Indian and Jain styles. This is slightly different from the temples in the other regions of India. The main sanctum houses the Shivalinga of Lord Manjunatha along with the statues of Dharma Daivas and other deities. The architectural style of the temple is unique yet simple. It has a square plan accompanied by a pyramidal roof. Over 800 years old, the temple’s history is intertwined with the cultural and religious fabric of the local region. It represents a unique confluence of Shaivism, Vaishnavism, and Jainism, reflecting India’s diverse religious traditions. Placed against a serene background Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala is a perfect visit for pilgrims and tourists alike.
Both locals and tourists visit this place during festivals. Some popularly celebrated festivals at the temple include Ganesha Chaturthi, Navaratri, Deepavali, Laksha Deepotsava, Shivarathri, Chandramana Ugadi, and Annual Jathre. If you are planning to visit the Sri Dharmasthala Temple then keep reading this blog. We will be sharing the detailed location of the temple along with guidance on how to reach there.
Location of Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala Temple
The word Dharmasthala means the abode of Dharma. Standing as the epitome of faith and humanity, the Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala Temple is located in the town of Dharmasthala in the Dakshina Kannada district of the Indian state of Karnataka. Nestled in the picturesque Western Ghats, Dharmasthala is not only a significant pilgrimage site but also a serene destination surrounded by natural beauty.
The exact address of Shri Kshetra Dharmasthala is:
Shree Kshetra Dharmasthala,
Dakshina Kannada District
Karnataka – 574216,
India
Closest Landmark: Netravathi River Barrage which is around 1 km apart from the main temple.
The geographical coordinates of the temple are
Latitude: 12.9577°N
Longitude: 75.3765°E
How to Reach It?
Now that you know where the temple is located you must be busy figuring out the means to reach it. Do not worry we are here to help you. If you are coming from a distant location you can reach the Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala Temple by road, train, and air. Here is the detail.
By Road
Dharmasthala is well-connected by road to major cities and towns in Karnataka and neighbouring states. Regular bus services are available for cities like Bangalore, Mangalore, Mysore, and Udupi. Also, the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and private bus operators run frequent services to Dharmasthala.
- The temple’s distance from Mangalore
- The temple’s distance from Bangalore
- The temple’s distance from Mysore
By Train
The nearest railway station is Mangalore Junction (Kankanady), about 74 kilometres from Dharmasthala. From the railway station, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Dharmasthala.
By Air
The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (IXE), which is about 75 kilometres away. The airport has regular flights connecting to major cities in India and some international destinations. From the airport, taxis and buses are available to Dharmasthala.
Once you have reached Dharmasthala, local transportation options include auto-rickshaws, taxis, and local buses to help visitors get around the town and visit various sites within the temple complex and surrounding areas.
Temple Timings
Before visiting the temple it is wiser to make a note of the temple timings so that you can plan your itinerary accordingly. The temple is open from Monday to Sunday from 6:30 am to 8:30 pm. We have started the breakup of the timings below:
| Names | Timings |
|---|---|
| Darshana & Pooja |
6:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. 12:15 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. |
| Abhisheka & Archana | 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. |
Conclusion
The Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala Temple is one of the most popular religious destinations in Karnataka. Every year millions of pilgrims and tourists visit this temple to experience the piety and divinity of the place and also witness its unique architecture. The temple is graced by the idol of lord Manhunatheshwara, a form of lord Shiva. Devotees cross miles to offer their prayers and seek the blessings of the lord who is presented in the form of a shivalinga here. The temple celebrates an array of festivals ranging from Ganesh Chaturthi to Shiva Rathri and is open to people from all walks of life. You can be a pilgrim, a tourist who loves to enjoy beautiful places, an architect or even a historian, this temple has something to offer for all. In this article, we tried to help future visitors of the temple by sharing its exact location and guiding you on how to get there. We have also mentioned the temple timings for you to make your travel plans accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I hire a taxi to reach Dharmasthala Temple?
Yes, of course. Taxis are readily available from nearby cities and towns to Dharmasthala.
Is there any dress code for visiting Dharmasthala Temple?
Yes, it is advised to dress modestly and respectfully while visiting the temple. Traditional attire is preferred, with men wearing dhoti or trousers and women wearing sarees or salwar kameez.
Are there any special pujas or rituals conducted at Dharmasthala Temple?
Some of the events hosted at the temple include:
- Dhanu Poojarambha
- Dhanu Sankramana
- Shri Chandranatha Swamy Samavasarana Pooja
- Gowrimarukatte Utsava
- Laksha Deepotsava
- Sahithya Sammelana
- Annadanam
Are there any facilities for senior citizens and differently-abled visitors at Dharmasthala Temple?
Yes, obviously. The temple provides facilities such as ramps and wheelchairs for senior citizens and differently-abled visitors to ensure easy access.
Where can I stay for the night if I am visiting the Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala temple?
Dharmasthala has many comfortable and safe accommodation facilities for tourists. One of the best hotels in Dharmasthala is Hotel Parijatha Inn. Loaded with the most sought-after facilities, this place has both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned rooms available at affordable rates. You can click here to book rooms at the hotel.
Is there a parking facility available at the Dharmasthala Temple?
Yes, there are ample parking facilities available for cars, buses, and two-wheelers near the temple premises.
Can I participate in the Annadanam at Dharmasthala Temple?
Yes, all visitors are welcome to participate in the Annadanam, which offers free meals to devotees every day.
Are there any specific visiting hours for Dharmasthala Temple?
Yes, the temple is generally open from early morning until late evening with specific hours for Darshan and Poojas. It is advisable to check out the temple’s official website or contact the administration for the exact timings. You can also read this article for a rough idea about the timings.
How can I contribute to the temple’s charitable activities?
You can contribute by making donations at the temple office or through their official website. Donations support various charitable activities like education, healthcare, and rural development.
Do I need to pay any entry fee while visiting the Dharmasthala Temple?
No, there is no entry fee to visit the Dharmasthala Temple. It is open to devotees from all walks of life.