Vairamudi Festival transforms the temple town of Melukote in Mandya district into a sea of devotion. Thousands gather to witness Lord Cheluvanarayana Swamy adorned with a legendary diamond-studded crown during this grand 13-day Brahmotsava.
Did You Know?
- The Vairamudi crown, embedded with precious gems, is brought under heavy security from Mandya treasury only for the festival.
- Legend credits Garuda, Lord Vishnu’s eagle, with recovering the crown from a demon and delivering it to Melukote.
- The night-long procession on Pushya Nakshatra draws lakhs of devotees for darshan of the crowned deity.
- Melukote’s Cheluvanarayana Temple is one of Karnataka’s most revered Vaishnava shrines with ancient Ramanuja connections.
Highlights of the Event
- Grand Vairamudi procession where the deity parades through streets in a resplendent chariot under moonlight.
- Garudotsava with the eagle mount carrying the Lord, celebrated a day before the main Brahmotsava begins.
- Daily rituals including Kalyanotsava, Teppotsava boat festival, and Nagavalli Mahotsava in the temple tank.
- Cultural evenings with classical music, dance and bhajans echoing through the hilltop temple complex.
- Annadana feasts serving thousands, blending spiritual fervour with community celebrations.
Event Dates and Timings
The 13-day Vairamudi Brahmotsava typically spans from Bharani Nakshatra in Phalguna to Hasta Nakshatra, often early April. The highlight Vairamudi procession occurs overnight on Pushya Nakshatra. Please check the temple announcements for exact 2026 dates.
How to Reach
Melukote lies 50 km north of Mysuru and 140 km from Bengaluru via NH275. Mysuru Airport is closest (50 km), with Mandya railway junction (35 km) connecting major cities. Regular KSRTC buses, taxis and autos serve the final stretch to the hill temple.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Expect massive crowds during the night procession; arrive early and follow queue discipline for darshan.
- Dress modestly in traditional attire; remove footwear at temple entry and carry water for the uphill climb.
- Night events extend till dawn, hence, arrange safe transport and modest accommodation amid festival rush.
- Park vehicles at designated lots below the hill to avoid congestion on the winding temple road.
Join the divine spectacle of Vairamudi Festival
Witness the diamond-crowned Lord glide through moonlit streets. Immerse in ancient rituals and temple chants. Savour community feasts amid Melukote’s sacred hills. Plan your spiritual journey to Mandya’s timeless celebration!