Temples in Karnataka

Known for some of the best World Heritage Sites, the culturally rich state of Karnataka is also known as the "Cradle of Stone Architecture." It is because such a rare profusion of monuments, carvings, and art expressions is seldom found elsewhere in the country. In the western belt of Karnataka in general and in Mangalore, Udupi, Uttara Kannada, Chickmagalur, Hassan and Shimoga in particular; there are many famous temples and shrines. Blending freely into history, the natural grandeur of these architectural wonders attaches an evocative ambience and cultural significance to the state.

The sanctum of a great Sanskrit philosopher, Madhavacharya, the pilgrim town of Udupi houses a world famous temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. Legend says that Lord Krishna appeared in human form to one of his ardent devotee, Kanakdasa through a small window of the temple. Presently known as "Kanakana Kindi" the window is still there in the temple and attracts a number of devotees each year. A grand festival is celebrated in the temple every alternate year. Known as Paryaya festival, this marks the handing over of responsibilities by the officiating priests to the next pontiff. Known as the favorite foods of the Lord here, some of the important constituents of the South Indian Cuisine namely Masala Dosa, Idli and Wada have their origin here only.

Another historic temple dedicated to the goddess of strength and emotional power is the Mookambika Temple. Nestled amidst the lush green valleys of Western Ghats, this temple of goddess Mookambika is one of the most sacred spots of the coastal region. Adi Shankeracharya, a great philosopher of the ancient times is believed to have performed his penances here. With a gold plated crest, the temple is adorned with a copper roof.

Housing the biggest statue of Lord Shiva in the whole world, the Murdeshwar Temple in Karnataka stands on a beautiful beach sandwiched between the picturesque Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea. Built with Chalukya and Kadamba sculptures, this temple of Lord Shiva follows the Dravidian style of architecture. Visited by a number of devotees of Lord Shiva every year, the temple stands as mute evidence to the unique craftsmanship of the contemporary artists.

Presenting a rarest example of cultural tolerance and communal harmony, Manjunatha Temple at Karnataka is one of its own kinds in the country. Administered by a benevolent Jain Heggade, this temple is swarmed by endless pilgrims irrespective of caste, creed, or religion. They are provided with free meals and lodging here. A 39 feet statue of lord Bahubali carved out of a single giant rock is the major attraction of this temple. During the "Laksha Deepotsava" festival, 100,000 oil lamps are lighted up in the night at the temple. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Jain Thirthankars are also worshiped at the temple on the same sanctified ground.

Taking its name from Rishyashringa of Ramayana fame, the historic town of Sringeri, situated among the evergreen forests of Chickmagalur District, houses an ancient architectural marvel in the form of Vidyashankera temple. The temple is characterized by 12 sculpted pillars, each representing a sign of the zodiac. These pillars are placed in such a way that the rays of the sun fall on each pillar successively according to the solar months.