Mookambika Temple: In the Kollur village of the Udupi district in the Indian state of Karnataka, there is a Hindu temple called the Mookambika Temple. The shrine is devoted to Goddess Mookambika, who is thought to be a manifestation of Goddess Parvati, Lord Shiva’s spouse.
Adi Shankaracharya, a philosopher from the eighth century, is thought to have visited this location and set the idol of Goddess Mookambika here. The temple is situated on the banks of the river Souparnika.
The temple is well known for its exquisite carvings, stunning architecture, and tranquil setting. The idol of Goddess Mookambika, which is thought to be a self-manifested idol, is kept in the main sanctum sanctorum of the temple. The goddess is shown holding a lotus, a conch, and a Trishula.
History of Mookambika Temple
The Mookambika Temple has a long history and has served as a site of devotion for many generations. Although the actual beginnings of the temple are unclear, it is thought that it existed in some capacity even before Adi Shankaracharya.
Legend has it that as Kola Maharishi was meditating on the banks of the river Souparnika, the goddess Mookambika appeared to him. The goddess granted him access to heavenly knowledge and appeared to him as a jyotirlinga (a lingam of light). The location of the goddess’ vision was the site of a tiny temple that was later constructed by Kola Maharishi.
The great philosopher and saint Adi Shankaracharya later paid the shrine a visit and was moved by its spiritual importance. He erected the Mookambika idol at the temple and turned it into a significant location for the goddess’s worship.
How to reach
In the Indian state of Karnataka’s Kollur village, which is part of the Udupi district, is where you can find the Mookambika Temple. Here are the several ways you can get to the temple:
By Air: The Mangalore International Airport, located around 140 kilometres from Mookambika Temple, is the closest airport. You can take a bus or a cab from the airport to go to the temple.
By Train: Kundapura Railway Station, located around 40 kilometres from Mookambika Temple, is the closest train hub. You can take a taxi or bus to the temple from the station.
By Bus: There are frequent buses from important Karnataka cities, such as Bangalore, Mangalore, and Udupi, to Kollur. The temple is well-connected by bus services.
By Car: Thanks to the well-maintained and connected highways, you can also go by car from adjacent cities to the temple. For a convenient and comfortable ride, you can either rent a car or call a cab.
Best time to visit Mookambika temple
Wintertime, from October to February, is the ideal time to visit the Mookambika Temple. This is the perfect time to explore the temple and the surrounding environs because the weather is nice and temperate, with temperatures between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius.
Heavy rains that fall in the area from June to September during the monsoon season can make travel risky and difficult. Summertime can be hot and muggy from March to May, with highs of up to 35 degrees Celsius.
around festival periods, notably around Navratri, which happens in September or October, the temple is also very packed. Be ready for heavy crowds and extended wait times if you plan to visit during this period.
Neared place
You can visit a number of interesting locations close to the Mookambika Temple during your vacation. Some of the nearby landmarks are listed below:
Kodachadri: A beautiful mountaintop called Kodachadri is around 20 kilometres away from the Mookambika Temple. It is a well-liked trekking location and provides breathtaking views of the nearby hills and valleys.
Maravanthe Beach: The temple is roughly 25 kilometres away from this lovely beach. The beach is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports because of its immaculate white sand and blue waters.
Kollur backwater: 4 kilometres away from the temple is the tranquil backwater getaway of Kollur. The backwaters, which are encircled by rich vegetation and create a tranquil and calming ambience, can be explored by boat.
Baindur: A little coastal village called Baindur is roughly 30 km from the temple. The area is well-known for its stunning beaches and provides opportunities for a variety of water sports, including kayaking, surfing, and snorkelling.
Udupi: About 70 km from the temple, it is a well-known pilgrimage site. The Udupi Sri Krishna Temple and the town’s food, which includes the well-known Udupi dosa and idli, are both well-known attractions.
Stay option
There are a variety of lodging choices close to the Mookambika Temple in Kollur, accommodating various spending limits and tastes. Here are a few possibilities:
Temple Guest Homes: The management of a number of guest homes close to the temple provides tidy, pleasant rooms at reasonable rates. Mookambika Guest House, Mookambika Yatri Nivas, and Sharada Lodge are a few of these inns.
Private Guest Houses and Homestays: In and around Kollur, there are a number of private guest houses and homestays that provide a more individualised and cosy experience. These inns, which range in price from cheap to luxurious, provide guests with a cosy stay and the essentials.
Resorts & Hotels: A number of resorts and hotels are found close to the temple, providing exquisite accommodations with contemporary amenities and facilities. The Hotel Mookambika Palace, Jyothis Residency, and Wild Woods Spa and Resort are a few well-liked choices.
Camping: If you enjoy exploring new places, you can choose to set up a tent in one of the local hills or forests. There are numerous camping trip companies that provide camping packages with tents, food, and other facilities.
To guarantee availability and prevent last-minute headaches, it is best to make your reservations well in advance, especially during the busiest seasons or during holidays.
FAQ
What is the significance of the Mookambika Temple?
The Mookambika Temple is a significant Hindu pilgrimage site, dedicated to the goddess Mookambika, who is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. The temple is known for its rich history, architecture, and religious importance.
What is the dress code for visiting the Mookambika Temple?
There is no specific dress code for visiting the Mookambika Temple, but visitors are advised to dress modestly and avoid wearing revealing or provocative clothing. It is also customary to remove footwear before entering the temple.
Can non-Hindus visit the Mookambika Temple?
Yes, non-Hindus are allowed to visit the Mookambika Temple, but they are not allowed to enter the main sanctum sanctorum. However, they can still explore the temple complex and witness the rituals and traditions.
Are there any food options available near the temple?
Yes, there are several food options available near the Mookambika Temple, including local eateries, restaurants, and street food vendors. The temple complex also has a food court, offering traditional South Indian vegetarian meals.
Is photography allowed inside the temple?
Photography is not allowed inside the main sanctum sanctorum of the Mookambika Temple. However, photography is allowed in other parts of the temple complex, such as the outer courtyards and the surrounding areas.
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