Introduction
Dharmasthala is a renowned pilgrimage center set in the tranquil Western Ghats on the banks of the Netravati river in Dakshina Kannada. It is arguably the most visited religious place in Karnataka. Dharmasthala is a unique amalgam of faiths, celebrated for its communal, religious, and cultural harmony, where all visitors are served free meals regardless of their caste or religion.
Did You Know?
- Unique Administration: The Manjunatha Temple is a prominent Shaivaite Center, yet it has Madhwa Vaishnavaite priests and is administered by a hereditary Jain family (the Heggades).
- Symbol of Unity: The Jain Tirthankara and Lord Manjunatha (Shiva) are worshipped on the same consecrated ground.
- Historical Origin: The temple originated 8 centuries ago when the divine intervention convinced local village chief Birmanna Pergade to dedicate their life for Dharma (justice).
- Bahubali Statue: A 39 ft. statue of Lord Bahubali symbolizes the spirit of non-violence, universal brotherhood, and sacrifice, visible on the hill near the temple.
- Mass Marriages: The temple management regularly organizes mass marriages for young couples from financially weaker backgrounds.
Places to Visit
- Manjunatha Temple: The main shrine to seek blessings from Lord Manjunatha.
- Lord Bahubali Statue: A 39 ft. stone monolith symbolizing non-violence, located on the hill.
- Manjusha Museum: Houses a wide range of objects, including ancient scripts on palm leaves, silver jewelry, and historic household goods.
- Sri Chandranatha Swamy Basadi: A beautiful basadi (Jain temple) built in white marble, an important center for Jains.
- Car Museum: Exhibits dozens of vintage cars owned by Dr. Veerendra Heggade.
What to Do
- Spiritual Visit: Seek blessings at the Manjunatha Temple and participate in pooja or sevas (like Tulabhara).
- Service: Experience the tradition of Annadana (free mass feeding), where pilgrims are given free meals.
- Cultural Experience: Visit the Car Museum to see vintage automobiles.
- Festivals: Witness the annual Laksha Deepotsava (lighting one lakh lamps) held in November-December.
- Day Trips: Visit nearby Kukke Subramanya (55 kms), Moodubidiri (51 kms), and Mangaluru (75 kms).
How to Reach
- By Air: Mangaluru is the nearest airport (75 kms).
- By Rail: Putturu railway station is the closest major railhead (49 kms).
- By Road: Dharmasthala is 311 kms from Bengaluru and 75 kms from Mangaluru, with good bus service from Mangaluru city.
Where to Stay
- Dharmasthala Temple management runs a guest house which can be booked online.
- Private lodges and hotels are available near the temples.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Dress Code: Dress modestly and respectfully within the temple premises.
- Annadana: Free meals are provided to all pilgrims, irrespective of background.
- Festivals: The Laksha Deepotsava festival attracts large crowds; plan ahead for the November-December period.
- Tulabhara: This ritual involves balancing the devotee with an equal weight of materials such as rice or coconut.
Summary
Experience the unique harmony of faiths and the spirit of religious charity at Dharmasthala. Plan your pilgrimage and cultural visit with Karnataka Tourism today!