Sri Manjunatha Temple (Kadri)
Kadri Sri Manjunatha Temple: The Ancient Shiva Shrine of Mangalore
The Kadri Sri Manjunatha Temple, located in Mangalore, Karnataka, is one of the oldest and most revered temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Nestled on the Kadri Hills, this temple is famous for its bronze idol of Lord Manjunatha, believed to be the oldest in South India. The temple has a rich history dating back to the 10th or 11th century and showcases a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist influences.
Kadri is not just a religious site but also a center of culture, history, and spirituality, attracting devotees and tourists from all over India.
History and Legend of Kadri Temple
The origins of the Kadri Manjunatha Temple are linked to Hindu mythology and Buddhist traditions. The word Kadri is derived from "Kadri Vihara," indicating that the site was once a Buddhist monastery before being converted into a Hindu temple.
Legend of Sage Parashurama
According to legend, Sage Parashurama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, created Karnataka’s coastal region by throwing his axe into the sea. He then established temples for Lord Shiva, including the Kadri Manjunatha Temple. It is believed that the temple’s Shiva Linga was originally installed by him and later worshipped by Gorakhnath, a great yogi of the Nath tradition.
Buddhist Influence
Historians suggest that Kadri was once a Buddhist center, as evident from the cave-like structures, inscriptions, and the presence of Vajrayana Buddhist influences. Over time, the place became a center of Shaivism, dedicated to Manjunatha (Shiva).
The Unique Bronze Idol of Lord Manjunatha
One of the most distinctive features of the Kadri temple is the bronze idol of Lord Manjunatha (Shiva), which dates back to the 10th–11th century. This makes it one of the oldest bronze idols of Shiva in South India. The idol is depicted in a seated posture with four arms, holding a damaru (drum), trisula (trident), and abhaya mudra (gesture of protection).
Apart from the main idol, the temple also houses idols of:
- Goddess Durga
- Lord Ganesha
- Lord Vishnu with Lakshmi
- Lord Brahma
The Holy Theerthas (Sacred Ponds) of Kadri
The temple is famous for its sacred water springs, known as Gomukha Theertha, located on the hill behind the temple. These water sources are believed to be holy and medicinal, and devotees take a ritual bath before entering the temple. The water flows from a Nandi-shaped spout and is believed to originate from the Kudlu Theertha Falls, deep in the Western Ghats.
Festivals and Rituals
The temple follows traditional Shaivite rituals, with daily poojas and grand celebrations during special occasions.
Key Festivals Celebrated
- Maha Shivaratri – The grandest festival, celebrated with night-long prayers, bhajans, and special poojas.
- Karthika Masa (November-December) – The temple is beautifully lit with oil lamps.
- Navaratri & Deepavali – Devotional celebrations in honor of Goddess Durga and Lakshmi.
- Lakshadeepotsava – The temple is illuminated with thousands of lamps.
- Annual Jatra (Temple Fair) – A grand festival held in January, attracting thousands of devotees.
Nearby Attractions
Kadri is not just a religious destination; it also has historical and natural attractions:
- Kadri Park – A beautiful park near the temple, perfect for families and nature lovers.
- Kadri Caves – Ancient caves believed to have been used by Buddhist monks.
- Pilikula Nisargadhama – A nature park with a zoo, lake, and science center, located 10 km away.
- Mangaladevi Temple – A famous temple dedicated to Goddess Mangaladevi, around 4 km from Kadri.
- Tannirbhavi Beach & Panambur Beach – Scenic coastal spots for relaxation and sunset views.
How to Reach Kadri Manjunatha Temple?
Kadri Temple is located in Mangalore, a well-connected city in Karnataka.
- By Road: The temple is about 4 km from Mangalore city center, and buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws are easily available.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Mangalore Central Railway Station (3 km away).
- By Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (12 km away), with flights from major Indian cities.
Best Time to Visit
The temple can be visited throughout the year, but the best time is October to March, when the weather is pleasant. Visiting during Maha Shivaratri or the Annual Jatra is a great experience due to the grand celebrations.
The Kadri Sri Manjunatha Temple is a sacred and historic site, offering a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist heritage. With its ancient bronze idol of Shiva, sacred water springs, and spiritual atmosphere, the temple remains a must-visit destination for devotees and history enthusiasts alike. A visit to Kadri is not just a pilgrimage but an experience of divine blessings, history, and nature’s beauty.