Kukke Subrahmanya Temple is one of the most famous temples in South India, located in the small town of Subrahmanya in Karnataka. This temple is dedicated to Lord Subrahmanya, who is worshipped as the protector from serpent-related troubles (Sarpa Dosha). The temple is surrounded by lush green forests and the beautiful Kumaradhara River, making it not just a spiritual place but also a peaceful retreat for devotees. It is believed that Lord Subrahmanya appeared here along with serpent king Vasuki, and that is why the temple is considered very sacred for those seeking relief from Naga Dosha and other planetary issues.

Every year, thousands of devotees come to Kukke Subrahmanya Temple to perform special sevas like Sarpa Samskara, Ashlesha Bali, and Naga Pratishta, which are unique rituals not commonly performed in other temples. The temple also sees heavy crowds during festivals like Subrahmanya Shashti and Makara Sankranti. Pilgrims take a holy dip in the Kumaradhara River before entering the temple. The spiritual energy of the place, combined with its natural beauty, makes Kukke Subrahmanya one of the most important pilgrimage centers in India.
Overview of Kukke Subrahmanya Temple
Detail | Information |
---|---|
Temple Name | Kukke Subrahmanya Temple |
Location | Subrahmanya, Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka |
Main Deity | Lord Subrahmanya with Serpent King Vasuki |
Famous For | Relief from Sarpa Dosha, Naga Dosha, Seva rituals |
River | Kumaradhara River (holy bath before darshan) |
Best Time to Visit | November to February (cool climate) |
Major Festival | Subrahmanya Shashti |
Nearby Towns | Dharmasthala (60 km), Mangalore (105 km) |
Timings of Kukke Subrahmanya Temple
Below is the daily timing schedule for darshan and pooja:
Activity | Timing |
---|---|
Temple Opening | 6:00 AM |
Morning Pooja & Abhishekam | 6:30 AM – 10:00 AM |
Sarpa Samskara & Ashlesha Bali | 7:00 AM – 12:30 PM |
Darshan Hours | 6:30 AM – 1:30 PM |
Temple Closing (Afternoon) | 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM |
Evening Darshan | 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
Maha Mangalarathi | 7:30 PM |
Temple Closing (Night) | 8:30 PM |
Sevas and Darshans Available
Seva / Darshan | Timings | Approx Price |
---|---|---|
Sarpa Samskara | 8:00 AM – 12:30 PM | ₹3,200 per couple |
Ashlesha Bali | 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM | ₹400 per person |
Naga Pratishta | 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM | ₹500 per person |
Rudrabhisheka | 6:30 AM – 9:00 AM | ₹250 per person |
Panchamrutha Abhisheka | 6:30 AM – 10:00 AM | ₹200 per person |
Special Darshan | Throughout darshan hours | ₹100 per person |
Annadanam (Free Lunch) | 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM | Free |
How to Reach Kukke Subrahmanya Temple
Kukke Subrahmanya Temple is located in a remote town, but it is well connected by road, rail, and air.
- By Road: Regular KSRTC buses and private buses are available from Bangalore, Mangalore, Mysore, and Dharmasthala.
- By Train: Subrahmanya Road Railway Station (SBHR) is about 12 km from the temple. From there, autos and taxis are available.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (Bajpe), which is around 105 km away. From the airport, one can take a taxi or bus.
How to Book Darshan & Seva Tickets
Devotees can book tickets both online and offline. The temple provides an official website for seva bookings.
Steps for Online Booking:
- Visit the official temple website (kukke.org).
- Register with your mobile number and email.
- Choose the seva (Sarpa Samskara, Ashlesha Bali, etc.).
- Select the date and number of persons.
- Make payment online through UPI, net banking, or card.
- Carry the booking receipt and ID proof on the day of seva.
Offline Booking: Tickets are also available at the temple counter, but for special sevas like Sarpa Samskara, advance booking is highly recommended as it is limited per day.
Nearby Attractions
When visiting Kukke Subrahmanya, devotees can also explore nearby attractions:
- Dharmasthala Manjunatha Temple (60 km): Famous Shiva temple and free annadanam.
- Bisle Ghat (20 km): A scenic viewpoint in the Western Ghats.
- Adi Subrahmanya Temple (2 km): Dedicated to serpent worship.
- Mangalore Beaches (105 km): Panambur and Tannirbhavi beaches.
- Kumaradhara River: Pilgrims take a holy dip before darshan.
Accommodation Options Near the Temple
Accommodation Type | Price Range | Distance from Temple |
---|---|---|
Temple Guest Houses | ₹200 – ₹500 per night | 0.5 km |
Budget Hotels | ₹600 – ₹1,200 per night | Within 1 km |
Mid-Range Hotels | ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 per night | 1–2 km |
Dharamshalas | Free / Nominal donation | Walking distance |
Private Lodges | ₹800 – ₹1,500 per night | Near bus stand |
Important Instructions for Visitors
- Devotees must take a holy bath in Kumaradhara River before entering the temple.
- Dress modestly (men: dhoti or pants and shirt, women: saree or salwar). Shorts, skirts, and western wear are not allowed.
- Photography inside the temple premises is strictly prohibited.
- Special sevas like Sarpa Samskara and Ashlesha Bali should be booked in advance.
- Free Annadanam is provided daily, and all visitors are encouraged to take part.
- Silence and discipline must be maintained in queue lines.
- Plastic items and alcohol are not allowed near the temple.
Dos and Don’ts at Kukke Subrahmanya
Dos:
- Do take a dip in the Kumaradhara River before darshan.
- Do wear traditional and decent clothes.
- Do book Sarpa Samskara seva in advance.
- Do participate in Annadanam provided by the temple.
- Do maintain cleanliness inside the temple area.
Don’ts:
- Don’t carry leather belts, handbags, or shoes into the temple.
- Don’t click photos inside the temple premises.
- Don’t bring alcohol or non-vegetarian food.
- Don’t disrespect temple staff or other devotees.
- Don’t litter near the temple or river.
FAQs about Kukke Subrahmanya Temple
Q1. What is Kukke Subrahmanya Temple famous for?
It is famous for rituals like Sarpa Samskara and Ashlesha Bali, which remove Sarpa Dosha.
Q2. What is the nearest railway station to the temple?
Subrahmanya Road (SBHR), located 12 km away.
Q3. Can I book Sarpa Samskara online?
Yes, tickets can be booked through the official website kukke.org.
Q4. What are the temple opening hours?
The temple opens at 6:00 AM and closes at 8:30 PM.
Q5. Is Annadanam free for all devotees?
Yes, free meals are served daily between 11:30 AM and 2:30 PM.
Q6. Is photography allowed inside the temple?
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside temple premises.
Q7. What should I wear in the temple?
Traditional dress is recommended – saree/salwar for women, dhoti/pants and shirt for men.
Q8. How far is Kukke Subrahmanya from Mangalore?
Around 105 km (3 hours by road).
Q9. Is accommodation available near the temple?
Yes, temple guest houses, lodges, and hotels are available.
Q10. When is the best time to visit the temple?
November to February is best, as the weather is pleasant.
I need to book sharpa samskara pooje
follow the process please
Temple is beautiful and Very clean I appreciate the system