Kateel

About Kateel

This temple at Kateel is dedicated to Goddess Durga Parameshwari, also known as Bhramari. The holy temple is situated in the middle of the river Nandini. Thousands of devotees visit Sri Durga Parameshwari temple at Kateel every day to seek blessings from goddess Durga Parameshwari.

History

Jabali wanted to put an end to human sufferings and decided to perform a yajna to please the devas. He requested Devendra to permit him to take Kamadhenu, the holy cow, for the yajna. Devendra asked Jabali to take Kamadhenu’s daughter Nandini instead. Nandini refused to accompany Jabali to earth since evil was predominant there. After a lot of arguments, Jabali, in his anger, cursed that she be born as a river on earth. Realizing her mistake, Nandini prayed for mercy. Relenting, Jabali advised her to pray to Goddess Durga to redeem her from the curse, Nandini appealed to Goddess Durga who appeared to her and informed her that though Nandini would be born as a river in fulfillment of the curse, she, Durga herself, would be born as Nandini’s daughter at the center of the river, and in the process, Nandini would attain purification. On Magha shudda Poornima, Nandini emerged as a river from Kanakagiri. Jabali performed his yajna. The devas were pleased and the earth was once again happy.

Elsewhere Arunasura acquired a boon from Brahma that he would not suffer death from any two legged or four legged being or from any weapon. Brahma also powered him with the Gayatri Mantra. After acquiring these powers, Arunasura defeated the devas and conquered heaven. The Devas prayed Goddess Durga for help.

One day Goddess appeared in Arunasura’s garden as a beautiful woman. Seeing the lady, Arunasura approached her. The beautiful lady reminded him that she had killed Shambasura and from whom Arunasura had escaped death. Arunasura got angry and tried to kill the woman with sword. The Goddess suddenly turned into a stone. Arunasura slashed the stone with the sword, then a vast swarm of bees emerged from the stone and stung him.

The bees (dhumbi) stung him repeatedly till his last breath. Devas led by Jabali performed abhisheka with tender coconut water and requested the Bramarambhika (Queen of the bees) to bless the world. Goddess Durga then appeared in her ‘Soumya Roopa’ (calm form) in the middle of the river, where the present structure of the temple imparts its glory to the world. In Tulu language, ‘Kati’ means ‘center’ (midway between the ‘Kanakagiri’ the place where the river was born, and the end, Pavanje, where the river joins the sea) and ‘lla’ means area. Thus the place is called ‘Kati + lla’ Kateel.

Interesting things to do

Laksha Deepotsava: Festival of lights is celebrated on the day of Kartika Bahula Panchami.

Other fairs and festivals that are celebrated at Kateel Durga Parameshwari temple are Navarathri Pooja, Astabhandha, Vasanthotsava, Brahmakalashotsava, Simha Sankramana and Nagamandala.

Interesting things to Visit

It is believed that Goddess Durga Parameshwari likes music and dance, a play team is dedicated completely for the cultural activity of Yakshagana illustrating the miracles of the Goddess Durga Parameshwari.

Every day free lunch and dinner are offered to devotees and visitors at temple premises. Every day about 2000 devotees accept the food with great devotion and treat this as a grace of Goddess Durga Parameshwari.

Location info

**Address:**Postal Address:
Shree Durga Parameshwari Temple
Kateel, Mangalore Taluk
Dakshina Kannada District
Pin Code - 574148
Phone: 0824-2200361/2200591/2200561

• **District:**Dakshina Kannada

• **Nearest City:**Mangalore

• Best time to visit:

How to reach Kateel

• **Nearest Railway Station:**Mangalore

• **Nearest Airport:**Mangalore

**Road Transport:**Kateel is well connected by roads.
Route map to reach Kateel -
1. Mangalore - Bajpe - Kateel (25 km)
2. Udupi - Mulki - Kinnigoli - Kateel (45 km)
3. Moodbidri - Kinnigoli - Kateel (22 km)
4. B C Road - Kaikamba - Bajpe - Kateel (35 km)

Hotels & accommodation nearby

Accommodations: Temple guest houses are available to stay.

Nearest visiting places

• Nethrani Island

Nethrani is a small uninhabited island, 18 km southwest off a small fishing village Murdeshwar and is shaped like a upturned boat with some vegetation along the rocky outcrop. The Island is famous for its Shiva temple and for having some of the best dive sites in world

• Kumaradhara River

The Kumaradhara River is an Indian river, in the southwestern India state of Karnataka. One of the two major rivers of Sullia, it merges with the Netravati River at Uppinangadi before flowing to the Arabian Sea

• Shambavi River

Shambavi is name of the river which flows in Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka state, India. Mulki town is south of river Shambavi. The river flows westwards to join the Arabian sea. Bappanadu Durga temple is situated near the river

• Mukka Beach

Mukka is suburb of Mangalore city on the shore of Arabian sea. It is located to north of NITK,Surathkal campus on National Highway 17. There is a beach in Mukka which has escaped public attention

• Panambur Beach

Panambur is the site of New Mangalore Port. It is located in Dakshina Kannada (formerly South Canara ) district of Karnataka state, India, north of the Gurupura river.There is a Nandaneshwara temple in Panambur

• Someshwar Beach

Someshwar Beach, blessed with an endless stretch of golden sand and graciously swaying palm trees, is located 9 km south of Mangalore. The beach is well known for a large rock called ‘rudra shila’

• Surathkal Beach

Located 15 km north of Mangalore, Suratkal Beach is known for its clean surroundings and a lighthouse. An uninterrupted and extremely attractive stretch of curving shoreline is a major feature of this beach. Sadashiva Temple is a nearby attraction

• Tannirubhavi Beach

Tannirubhavi beach is a beach in Mangalore, Karnataka, India. Currently, it can only be reach by land via Panambur or by ferry via Gurupura river from Sultan Battery

• Ullal Beach

Ullal Beach is situated about 12 km away from Mangalore on the south bank of the Nethravati River, facing Arabian Sea. Mangalore is a city of vivid contrasts. Apart from this beach, there are other beaches also in Mangalore

• Dharmasthala Temples

Dharmastala kshetra is located amongst the scenic beauty of the Western Karnataka on the banks of the Nethravathi River. The temple of Lord Manjunatha at Dharmastala is the star attraction in the Karnataka.

• Kadiri Temples

The 17th century Manjunath Temple is situated at the foot of the Kadiri Hill, 3 km north of Mangalore city. The temple has some superb bronze images of Buddha, dating to the 10th - 11th centuries. The idol of Lord Manjunathaswamy of the temple is believed to be the oldest of the South Indian Temples

• Subramanya Temples

Kukke Subrahmanya Kshetra lies in the luxurious abundance of the beauty of the nature nature with rivers, forests and mountains in Sullia Taluk of Dakshina Kannada (South Canara) District. Kukke Subrahmanya Temple is regarded as one of the seven Mukti stala pilgrimage sites of Karnataka. (Kollur, Udupi, Kumbasi, Kodeshwara, Sankaranarayana and Gokarna are other Mukti places)

• Mangalore Archeology

This temple is at the foot of the Katri hills, north of Mangalore. It is full of pilgrims. The temple belongs to the 10th century, but the pyramid like tower belongs to another time

• Mangalore Historicals

Situated in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, Mangalore is one of the important centers of exporting coffee and cashew nut. It is a hilly city with winding disoriented streets located some 357 km away from the city Bangalore

• Mudabidri

Mudabidri is another Jain town on par with Shrvanabelagola. It is 35 km from Mangalore. In this small farming town, there are 18 jain temples

Tips & suggestions

Distance from Kateel -
Mangalore: 29 km
Udupi: 45 km
Dharmasthala: 75 km
Moodbidri: 22 km
Nellitheertha Cave Temple: 8 km
Bappanadu: 14 km

Helpline & emergency contacts

• **Police Station:**Moodbidri:

• **Nearest Hospital:**Mangalore

• 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.

Climate & weather

Karnataka has a varied climate from the humid coast to the dry Deccan plateau and cool Western Ghats. The best time to visit is October to March, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C depending on region. April–May is hot across most of the state (up to 38°C). The southwest monsoon (June–September) brings heavy rain to the coast and ghats but transforms the landscape — this is the best time for Jog Falls and Coorg’s lush greenery. Hill stations (Coorg, Chikmagalur) remain pleasant year-round. Bangalore has a moderate climate throughout.

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 Kateel

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 Kateel

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