Sringeri

About Sringeri

Situated in southwest region of Karnataka, Chikmagalur is around 200 km from the capital city Bangalore. Nestling amidst Baba Budan Giri Hills, the town is at an altitude of 1037 m above sea level. From a tourist point of view, it is tough to find such a magnificent place in such solitary. Embracing lofty hills, splendorous waterfalls, religious places, and having magnificent hill stations close by, Chikmagalur is among the most visited places in Karnataka. The name ‘Chikmagalur’ means ‘The town of younger daughter’. It is said that the land was given as dowry to the younger daughter of Rukmangada which got it the peculiar name. Chikmagalur is a well known for its tea and coffee estate. The quantity and quality of Coffee, tea from Chikmagalur has been appreciated all over the country.

History

Sringeri till then was only a spiritual centre. It became a beehive of political activities which culminated in the establishment of the great Vijayanagar empire.

Sringeri has all along been a great center of education, a platform of intellectual activities and strong moral force. People all over India revere it as a Peetha of moral and intellectual and philosophical excellence. It has ushered in a new era by engaging itself in the nation building activities.

Interesting things to do

Sringeri Mutt is renowned as a centre of education, way of life and inspiring religious studies. Great scholars of Sanskrit come here for their research work. The authority of the mutt provides them with all types of educational facilities.

Do not forget to experience the unique tonga ride inside the city.

Interesting things to Visit

There are many shrines and temples in and around Sringeri. Adi Guru Sankaracharya constructed four temples for four deities as the protector of the Sree Sharada Peetha at Sringeri. They are Kalabhairava temple to the east, Durga Temple to the south, Anjaneya temple to the west and Kali temple to the north.

Sankaracharya established the Advaita Mutt and the temple of Sree Sharada. The Sharada temple has been rejuvenated from time to time.

Nearest Visiting places

Kudremukh
Kudremukh is a great spot for excursions from Chikmagalur. Situated at a distance of 95 Km from Chikmagalur and nestling at an altitude of 1894 meters above sea level, it is a hill station apt for trekking. ‘Kudremukh’ means ‘Face of a Horse’. It is named so, because the peak is in the shape of a horse face. Rich in both flora and fauna, most parts of the hill station are still unexplored. The Kudremukh hill bordering Arabian Sea, is dotted with numerous caves and excellent trek routes which makes it a great attraction among the tourists. The view of sun rising from behind the lush green slopes, is truly a sight to behold.

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the major tourist attractions in Chikmagalur district. Situated around 275 km from Bangalore, it covers an area of around 492 sq. Km. The region earlier was called Jagara Game Reserve Sanctuary but it was renamed to Bhadra Wildlife sanctuary in 1974. In 1988, it became the 25th member of Project Tiger. The main fauna attractions of the park are tigers, leopard, sloth bear, giant squirrels, elephant and gaur. The park is a good place for bird watching as well. Black napped flycatcher, king vulture, great horned owl, and billed stork are few avian members that you will see in Bhadra Wildlife sanctuary. The unique aspect of the sanctuary is the huge variety of butterflies here. Inside the park, there is high peak as well named Kallahathigiri which is around 1875 meters tall. This gives a good option for indulging in trekking inside Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.

Tips & Suggestions

Sringeri has all along been a great center of education, a platform of intellectual activities and strong moral force. People all over India revere it as a Peetha of moral and intellectual and philosophical excellence. It has ushered in a new era by engaging itself in the nation building activities.

Location info

• **Address:**90 km west of Chikmagalur town is Sringeri situated on the banks of river Tungabhadra.

• **District:**Chikmagalur

• **Nearest City:**Chikmagalur town

• Best time to visit: The best time to visit the town is in the month of October till March.

Climate & weather

Although the climate is pleasant throughout the year, however, the beauty of the hill stations and the waterfalls is best enjoyed after monsoons.

How to reach Sringeri

**Nearest Railway Station:**Nearest railhead to Chikmagalur is at Kadur and it has connection to many important cities in India. From Bangalore, it takes nearly 3 hrs by an express train. Take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Chikmagalur in about 45 minutes. There are trains that connect it to other parts of Karnataka as well. You can also get down at Berur which is around 50 minute drive away from here.

**Nearest Airport:**Nearest airport is in Mangalore which is at a distance of 170 Km from here. It takes around 5 hrs to cover the distance by Road. Buses are regular between the two cities. Mangalore Airport has flights of Indian Airlines and Jet Airways connecting it to rest of India. Banghalore and Hubli are other two airports where you can get down for Chikmagalur.

**Road Transport:**Chikmagalur is well connected by NH 48 that connects it to all the major cities in Karnataka. The route via Hassan is the fastest. Bangalore is at a distance of 240 Km. There is regular KSRTC bus service between Bangalore and Chikmagalur. During weekends, it is advisable to take tickets in advance as KSRTC busses run full and it is not easy to get tickets. It will tak nearly 5 hrs to cover the distance. You can approach Chikmagalur from Mysore as well which will take around 4 hrs 30 min.

Hotels & accommodation nearby

Chikmagalur has a good variety when it comes to staying options. It has a range of budget hotels but it also boosts of a hotel run by Taj Group. Most of the hotels in Chikmagalur are clean and well maintained. The hotels that you can choose from are Taj Garden Retreat, Quality Inn resort, Padanshree Hotel, and Prakash Lodge.

Helpline & emergency contacts

• Police Station:

• Nearest Hospital:

• 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 Sringeri

October to March offers pleasant weather for temple visits. Major festivals at the temple draw large crowds — visit during non-festival periods for a quieter experience. Early morning (6-8 AM) is ideal for peaceful darshan.

Timings & opening hours

Typically 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM daily. Pooja timings vary by temple. Special ceremonies during festivals may extend hours. Some temples have specific darshan timings.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry is generally free. Special pooja, abhisheka, or VIP darshan tickets may have charges (typically INR 10-200). Camera/phone fees may apply at some major temples.

Duration needed

30 minutes to 1 hour for a standard visit. 1-2 hours if attending special poojas or exploring the temple architecture. Half a day during major festivals.

Safety tips

Temples in Karnataka are generally safe. Remove footwear before entering (shoe-keeping counters available). Secure your belongings. Beware of pickpockets in crowded areas during festivals. Follow temple-specific dress codes.

Things to carry

Carry drinking water, snacks, comfortable walking shoes, hat/cap, sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, power bank, and personal medications. A light jacket or umbrella is recommended during monsoon season (June-September). Carry a scarf or shawl for covering shoulders. Small change for offerings and donations. Avoid leather items inside temples.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest railway station serves the district. Nearest airport: typically Kempegowda International Airport Bangalore or Mangalore International Airport. KSRTC buses connect major towns near the temple.

Frequently asked questions

Q: What are the temple timings? A: Typically 6:00 AM-12:00 PM and 4:00-8:00 PM. Check locally for specific pooja schedules. Q: Is photography allowed? A: Exterior photography is usually allowed. Interior/sanctum photography may be restricted — check signage. Q: What is the dress code? A: Modest dress covering shoulders and knees is expected. Traditional Indian attire is preferred.

Quick facts

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

Visitor information

Please check locally for current visitor information.

Photo gallery of Sringeri

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