Dharmasthala temple

About Dharmasthala temple

Let us all live together, Eat together, and grow together Without any feelings of Animosity.

This is the essence of all our religious traditions. And this philosophy in action is the glory of Dharmasthala.

History

The Chieftain built the shrines and priests requested him to install a Shivalinga beside the native Daivas. Annappa Swamy procured the linga of Lord Manjunatheshwara (Lord who is as beautiful as snow- Lord Shiva) from Kadri, near Mangalore. Nrusimha Saligrama is placed by his side.

Subsequently, the Manjunatha temple was built around the Linga. On the invite from Devaraja Heggade, Sri Vadiraja visited the temple. It took the name of “Dharmastala “ during the visit of Sri Vadiraja, a Vaishnava Saint of Sode Mutt from Udupi and he himself recons crate the Shivalinga himself. The Pergade and Heggade families’ dedication and contribution to the temple has brought the Dharmastala to the growing fame of Dharmasthala’s Sri Manjunathaswamy Temple. Many attribute the Manjunatha temple to the revered Jain Basadi The centuries old Chandranatha Swamy Temple at Dharmasthala has been maintained in the pristine condition and is amongst the most revered Digambara shrines in South India. It has been renovated in 2001, under the guidance of Veerendra Heggade.

Interesting things to do

The temple also provides protection to the needy – Abhayadana; free medicine – Aushadhadana; promotion of educational facilities – Vidyadana.

Interesting things to Visit

Laksha Deepothsava Festival of lights and grand illumination celebrated for five days in the month of Kartika (November - December) during this festival, there is cultural activities, Sarva-Dharma & Sahithya Sammelana. There are special seminars are as follows: Fine arts on the third day. Religions of the world, on the fourth day. Literature on the fifth day Special Poojas to Chandranatha Swamy

Shri Bahubali in Dharmasthala Dharmasthala is famous for Sri Manjunatheshwara Temple and Bahubali monolithic statue of 39 feet height and weighing more than 210 tons. This statue, located on Ratnagiri Betta, was brought to this location from Karkala in 1982. Confluence of various religions is the evidence of the tolerance and spirit of oneness that is the quintessence of Dharmasthala.

Nearest Visiting places

Manjusha Museum: This Museum near the Temple has a antique collection of swords, armory even old cameras etc. Collection of Temple chariots of various temples of Karnataka are exhibited outside the museum in a shed. There is one more vintage car collection from Sri Veerendra Heggade which is worth a visit for those with similar passion.

Veerendra Heggade: D Veerendra Heggade is the 21st Dharmadhikari of Shri Kshetra Dharmasthala. Born to Rathnamma and Ratnavarma Heggade in November 25, 1948. Being the eldest son, he had t take up the mantle of Heggadeship at the age of 20 on October 24, 1968. He promoted the carving and installation of the Bahubali statue at Dharmastala.

Under his guidance and able initiatives, “grameenaaabhivruddhi yojane” means “Village Welfare Programs have helped numerous farmers with agricultural credit, technical training, health and hygiene programs, and women empowerment.

Mr. Veerendra Heggade was awarded honorary doctorates from Mangalore University, Gulbarga University and Karnataka University. He was also conferred the “Padma Bhushan” award instituted by the Government of India from President K R Narayanan in 2000 for social service.

Location info

**Address:**Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatha temple Dharmasthala - 574 216
Belthangady Taluk
South Kanara District
Karnataka State - INDIA
Phone : 08256-317121, 08256-317123, 08256-317124, 08256-317141

• **District:**South Kanara

• **Nearest City:**Belthangady

Best time to visit: October to February, June to September
Endowed with sultry climate with temperatures hovering around 35 Degree Celcius most times of the year.

Climate & weather

Endowed with sultry climate with temperatures hovering around 35 Degree Celcius most times of the year.

How to reach Dharmasthala temple

• **Nearest Railway Station:**Mangalore

• **Nearest Airport:**Mangalore & Bangalore

**Road Transport:**Dharmasthala is located approximately 300 kms from Bangalore, and is connected by National Highway. It is about 65 Kms from the port town of Mangalore

Hotels & accommodation nearby

Accommodation is available only in the temple guest houses and dharmashalas. Rooms are allocated through a computer for a stay of 24 hrs only. Extension is possible on request. There is no system of advance booking

Tips & suggestions

While in Dharamsthala you can also see the antique Car Museum, Aquarium, Historical Museum, a garden named Lalithodyana and the Yakshagana dance Training center.

Helpline & emergency contacts

• **Police Station:**Dharmastala

• **Nearest Hospital:**Dharmastala

• Society/Community Phone Number

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Karnataka. 4G is reliable in Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Hubli, and along highways. Coverage may be weaker in deep forest areas of Bandipur, Nagarhole, and certain Western Ghats sections. Most hotels, resorts, and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

Food & restaurants nearby

Karnataka’s cities offer diverse cuisine. Bangalore has a legendary food scene from iconic darshinis (stand-up eateries) to craft breweries. Mysore is known for Mysore pak and traditional meals. Temple towns (Udupi, Dharmasthala, Murudeshwar) offer excellent vegetarian fare.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pumps are available in the nearest town or on the approach road — check locally for the closest option.

Accessibility

Religious sites may have steps at the entrance and may not have ramps. The interiors are generally level once inside. Some historic sites have uneven stone floors. Visitors with mobility concerns should check in advance.

Rules & restrictions

Modest dress is required: shoulders and knees must be covered (scarves or shawls are often available at the entrance). Photography is generally permitted without flash, but video may be restricted. Maintain silence inside. Mobile phones should be on silent mode. Remove shoes if required (indicated by signage). Do not touch artefacts or altars. These are active places of worship — respect services, festivals, and devotees.

Best photography spots

Karnataka has a rich collection of churches primarily in Mangalore (Mangalorean Catholic), Bangalore (colonial-era), and Mysore. St. Philomena’s Cathedral in Mysore (neo-Gothic, one of Asia’s largest) and the Rosario Cathedral in Mangalore are the most photogenic. The interiors of Mangalorean churches with their detailed altars are worth shooting.

Best time to visit Dharmasthala temple

Early morning (6:00-9:00 AM) is the best time for a peaceful darshan with fewer crowds. Major festivals attract large crowds — visit on regular days for a more serene experience. Winter months (October to March) offer pleasant weather for temple visits.

Timings & opening hours

Typically 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Pooja timings vary — morning abhisheka is usually around 6:00-7:00 AM, evening aarti around 6:00-7:00 PM. Some temples have specific timings for darshan. Temple may close during midday hours.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry is generally free for all devotees. Special pooja tickets or darshan packages may cost ₹50-₹200. Camera fee: ₹20-₹50 for still cameras, ₹100-₹200 for video cameras. Parking is usually free or nominal (₹10-₹20).

Duration needed

30 minutes to 1 hour for darshan and exploring the temple premises. If the temple has historical significance or architectural interest, plan 1-2 hours.

Safety tips

Temple premises are generally safe. Keep valuables secure in crowded areas. Follow temple rules and dress code. Remove footwear before entering the inner sanctum. Be aware of your surroundings during festivals when crowds are heavy.

Things to carry

Carry a shawl or scarf for covering shoulders if required. Small change for offerings and donations. Camera (check photography policy first). Water bottle. Footwear bag if you prefer to carry your shoes.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest railway station varies by location — typically the district headquarters station. Nearest airport: Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) or Mangalore International Airport (IXE). Local transport includes buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis.

Frequently asked questions

What is the dress code for visiting the temple? Modest clothing is required. Shoulders and knees must be covered. Traditional Indian attire is appreciated.

Is photography allowed inside the temple? Photography rules vary — check signage at the entrance. Flash photography and video recording are typically restricted inside the sanctum.

What are the main festivals celebrated here? Major Hindu festivals like Mahashivaratri, Navaratri, and annual temple festivals (brahmotsava) are celebrated with special poojas and cultural programmes.

Quick facts

• Type: Tourist Attraction
• State: Karnataka
• Category: Pilgrims Destination

Visitor information

Please check locally for current visitor information.

Photo gallery of Dharmasthala temple

Photos coming soon. In the meantime, you can find images of Dharmasthala temple on popular travel photography sites and social media.