Dharmasthala Temple is one of the most important pilgrimage places in Karnataka. The temple is dedicated to Lord Manjunatha (a form of Lord Shiva) and is located in Dharmasthala town, Dakshina Kannada district. The temple is very special because it is managed by a Jain family, but worship is done according to Hindu traditions by Vaishnava priests. This unique combination of faiths makes Dharmasthala Temple a symbol of unity and spirituality.
The temple is famous for its grand festivals, rituals, and charitable services. Every day, thousands of devotees come here for darshan and to seek blessings of Lord Manjunatha. The temple is also known for free food (Anna Dana) that is served daily to all visitors. Dharmasthala has a history of over 800 years, and the temple trust runs educational institutions, hospitals, and social service centers.
In 2025, the temple is expected to welcome even more pilgrims, especially during Maha Shivaratri, Kartika Month, and annual festivals. Darshan at Dharmasthala Temple is free, but there are also special sevas and rituals which can be booked by devotees. People also visit the giant statue of Lord Bahubali located nearby, which adds more charm to the pilgrimage.
Overview of Dharmasthala Temple
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Sri Manjunatha Swamy Temple, Dharmasthala |
| Location | Dharmasthala, Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka |
| Main Deity | Lord Manjunatha (Shiva) |
| Managed By | Jain Heggade Family |
| Priests | Madhwa Brahmins (Vaishnava tradition) |
| Famous For | Unity of religions, Anna Dana (free meals), Sevas |
| Best Time to Visit | October – March, Maha Shivaratri, Kartika Month |
| Special Attraction | 39-feet statue of Lord Bahubali |
Temple Timings 2025
Darshan and seva timings at Dharmasthala Temple are fixed daily. Pilgrims are advised to follow the schedule:
| Ritual / Darshan | Timing |
|---|---|
| Morning Darshan | 6:30 AM – 11:00 AM |
| Noon Break | 11:00 AM – 12:15 PM |
| Afternoon Darshan | 12:15 PM – 2:00 PM |
| Evening Darshan | 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM |
| Night Pooja & Closing | 8:30 PM – 9:00 PM |
Note: During festivals, timings may change.
Sevas and Darshan Options at Dharmasthala
The temple offers many different sevas and pujas which can be booked by devotees. Here is a list of popular sevas with timings and prices (approx.):
| Seva / Darshan | Timing | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rudrabhisheka | Morning | ₹150 | Special abhishekam to Lord Shiva with Rudra mantras |
| Panchamrutha Abhisheka | Morning | ₹200 | Abhishekam with milk, honey, curd, ghee, and sugar |
| Deepalankara Seva | Evening | ₹300 | Lighting lamps for Lord Manjunatha |
| Special Darshan | As per slot | ₹200 | Quick darshan line for devotees |
| Anna Dana (Free Meals) | 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM | Free | Meals served daily to all visitors |
| Tulabhara | Morning / Evening | ₹500 onwards | Offering items equal to devotee’s weight |
How to Reach Dharmasthala Temple
Dharmasthala is well connected by road, rail, and air.
- By Road: Dharmasthala is 300 km from Bangalore, 75 km from Mangalore, and 150 km from Mysore. KSRTC and private buses operate frequently.
- By Train: Nearest railway station is Mangalore Railway Station (around 70 km away). From there, you can take a taxi or bus.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (IXE), about 65 km from Dharmasthala. From the airport, buses and taxis are available.
- By Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws, private taxis, and buses run regularly from nearby towns like Ujire, Belthangady, and Mangalore.
How to Book Darshan Tickets & Sevas
Darshan at Dharmasthala Temple is generally free. But for sevas, devotees need to book in advance.
Steps to Book Online:
- Visit the official Dharmasthala Temple website.
- Go to the Seva Booking section.
- Choose your seva (e.g., Rudrabhisheka, Panchamrutha Abhisheka).
- Select the date and time slot.
- Enter devotee details and ID proof.
- Pay online using net banking / UPI / card.
- Download the receipt and show it at the seva counter.
Offline Booking:
You can also book seva tickets at temple counters in Dharmasthala, but online booking is better to avoid rush.
Nearby Attractions
Apart from the main temple, Dharmasthala has many attractions worth visiting:
- Bahubali Statue (Gommateshwara): A 39-feet tall monolithic statue similar to Shravanabelagola, located on Ratnagiri hill.
- Manjusha Museum: Displays antique items, paintings, and vintage cars.
- Netravati River: Scenic river where pilgrims often take a holy dip.
- Ramakunja & Belthangady: Nearby places with temples and scenic beauty.
- Kudremukh National Park: Around 60 km away, known for greenery and trekking.
- Sri Rama Kshetra: Located on the banks of River Netravati, a peaceful pilgrimage site.
Accommodation Options in Dharmasthala
The temple trust and private hotels provide many stay options.
| Accommodation | Price Range | Facilities | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dharmasthala Temple Guest Houses | ₹200 – ₹800 | Basic Rooms, Clean Stay | Near Temple |
| Netravati Guest House | ₹500 – ₹1,200 | AC / Non-AC Rooms | Temple Complex |
| Private Hotels (Ujire / Belthangady) | ₹1,000 – ₹3,000 | Modern Facilities | 5–10 km from Temple |
| Dormitory (Temple Trust) | ₹100 – ₹300 | Shared Beds, Budget Stay | Near Temple |
| Resorts & Homestays | ₹1,500 – ₹4,000 | Family-friendly, Natural Setting | Within 20 km |
Important Instructions for Devotees
- Carry valid ID proof for seva bookings.
- Dress modestly; men should wear dhoti/pants and women saree/salwar.
- Avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless, or modern outfits.
- Temple provides free food, so avoid carrying heavy meals.
- Mobile phones and cameras may not be allowed inside sanctum.
- Elderly people can use special queues for darshan.
- Always follow temple staff instructions.
- Maintain silence and discipline inside the temple.
Dos and Don’ts at Dharmasthala
| Dos | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Stand in queue patiently | Do not push in line |
| Take part in Anna Dana | Do not waste food |
| Respect both Hindu & Jain traditions | Do not bring alcohol / tobacco |
| Keep temple premises clean | Do not litter near Netravati River |
| Book sevas in advance | Do not argue with temple staff |
FAQs about Dharmasthala Temple 2025
Q1. Where is Dharmasthala Temple located?
A: In Dharmasthala town, Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka.
Q2. Which god is worshipped in Dharmasthala Temple?
A: Lord Manjunatha (a form of Lord Shiva).
Q3. Who manages the temple?
A: The Jain Heggade family, while pujas are performed by Vaishnava priests.
Q4. Is darshan free at Dharmasthala?
A: Yes, general darshan is free.
Q5. What are the temple timings?
A: 6:30 AM – 11:00 AM, 12:15 PM – 2:00 PM, and 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM.
Q6. How can I book seva tickets?
A: Online on the official website or at temple counters.
Q7. Is food available at the temple?
A: Yes, free meals (Anna Dana) are served daily.
Q8. What is the best time to visit?
A: October to March, especially during Maha Shivaratri.
Q9. Is accommodation available near the temple?
A: Yes, temple guest houses, hotels, and lodges are available.
Q10. What is special about Dharmasthala?
A: It is a unique temple managed by Jains but follows Hindu worship, and it is famous for Anna Dana and social service.
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