Kundadri Jain Temple Located on the Theerthahalli-Agumbe road, about 12km from Theerthahalli, Kundadri Hill is a gigantic monolithic rock formation. Surrounded by dense evergreen forests, it is a lovely place for trekking. A rough, stone-paved path leads to a Jain temple, Parshwanath Chaityalaya, a stone structure, perched atop the hill. Camping in the open at Kundadri Hills is an exhilarating experience as from the hill top you can see the twists and turns of the Thirthahalli-Agumbe road.
History:
The name Kundadri is believed to be derived from the name of Acharya Kundakunda, a popular 4th century Jain Monk, who is said to have taken shelter in these hills.
Jain Temple:
On top of Kundadri, a 17th century Jain temple dedicated to 23rd Tirthankara of Jains, Parshwanatha invites Jain devotees from different parts of the country. The small temple, along with two small ponds form the only building on top of Kundadri hills.
Places to visit near Kundadri:
A visit to Kundadri can be clubbed with nearby attractions such as Agumbe (16 kms), Sringeri (30 kms from Kundadri) and Kuppalli (31 kms from Kundadri)
How to reach Kundadri:
Kundadri 16 kms from Agumbe, 90 kms from Shivamogga and 350 kms from Bengaluru. Public transportation is available till Thirthahalli or Agumbe. Private vehicles or taxis are required to cover the last 15 kms to reach the top of Kundadri hills. Roads are steep and not recommended for inexperienced drivers.
Places to stay near Kundadri:
Kundadri is a secluded place with no facilities or people. Plan to return to the nearest town before nightfall. Hotels and homestays are available in Agumbe, Thirthahalli and Shivamogga.