Kadri Shree Manjunatha Temple things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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Kadri Shree Manjunatha Temple
Kadri Kambla Rd, Vasanth Vihar, Kadri, Mangaluru, Karnataka 575002, India
4.8(5.2K)
Open until 8:00 PM
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Kadri Manjunatha Temple is a historic temple in Mangalore in the state of Karnataka, India. The incharge and priests in the temple are Shivalli Madhva Brahmins.
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attractions: Kadri Park, Pandava Cave, Srimanthi Bai Memorial Government Museum, restaurants: Dinki Dine Veg Restaurant, Gajalee Sea Food Restaurant, Hotel Vrindavan Veg Fast Food, Gajalee Sea Food Restaurant, Vanas Mangalore - Authentic Coastal Cusine, New Juice Romantic, New Shivabagh Cafe, Pizza Hut | Kadri, Mangalore, Anchan Bar & Restaurant, Hotel Annapoorna - Non Veg Hotel
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Seenu SinghSeenu Singh
🌟 Kadri Shree Manjunatha Temple, Mangaluru is a serene and spiritually uplifting destination that beautifully blends history, architecture, and divinity 🕉️. Located atop a small hill, the temple welcomes visitors with ancient stone steps, lush greenery 🌿, and an atmosphere filled with peace and devotion. From the moment you arrive, the scent of incense sticks 🌸, the sound of temple bells 🔔, and chants echoing in the background 🎶 create a deeply calming aura.
The main deity, Lord Manjunatha (a form of Lord Shiva), sits in a yogic posture and is made of exquisite bronze, considered one of the oldest idols in South India 🛕. The powerful expression of the idol is enough to move any devotee. Apart from the main sanctum, you will find shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Goddess Durga, Lord Subramanya, and the Navagrahas 🌟 — each idol carved beautifully with divine energy.
Outside the sanctum, there's a sacred pond called Pushkarini, where many devotees take a holy dip before entering the temple 💧. The water feels cool and pure, adding to the spiritual atmosphere. Despite being crowded, the temple is incredibly well maintained. Clean surroundings, proper footwear counters 👣, and ample water facilities 🚰 make it easy for everyone to enjoy the visit, including senior citizens 👵👴.
One of the highlights is attending the mangal aarti 💥. The energy during the rituals is mesmerizing — the sound of conches 🐚, rhythmic bells 🔔, and Vedic chants 📿 elevate the whole experience to something truly spiritual. You can also find peaceful corners to sit, meditate 🧘, or simply absorb the divine energy around you.
A fun part of the visit is the friendly monkeys 🐒 roaming around the temple. They’re playful and often entertaining, but it's smart to be cautious with food or offerings 🍌. Their presence adds a unique charm to the overall experience.
📸 For photography lovers, this temple is a visual delight. From the reddish stone walls and golden temple top shining in the sunlight 🌄 to the intricate carvings and brass lamps inside, every angle offers a perfect shot. Morning and evening are the best times for photos. Each corridor and pillar tells a story of devotion, history, and craftsmanship 🛕✨.
Outside the temple, you’ll find stalls offering prasadam and tasty local snacks like vadas, banana chips 🍌, and coconut water 🥥. The temple’s own prasadam was simple yet fulfilling — something that touches both the stomach and the soul 💖.
👍 Cleanliness was top-notch. Volunteers and temple authorities deserve appreciation for maintaining such a busy place with such discipline 🌿. There are hand wash points, clean restrooms 🚽, and seating areas too.
Overall, Kadri Shree Manjunatha Temple is a must-visit for anyone in or around Mangaluru — whether you are a spiritual seeker, history lover, or cultural explorer 📚. The divine vibes, the architectural marvel, and the overall peaceful experience make it one of the most memorable temples I have ever visited 🕉️💫.
Aru DevAru Dev
Kadri Manjunath Temple is a historic and revered Hindu temple located in Mangalore, Karnataka. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is renowned for its architectural significance, ancient traditions, and religious importance. The deity here is worshipped as Lord Manjunatha, an incarnation of Shiva.
Historical and Mythological Significance
1. Origins and Legend:
The temple is believed to have been built in the 10th or 11th century, with roots tracing back to the Kadri Hills, which are considered sacred.
According to legend, the sage Parashurama, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, is said to have created the temple and installed the Shiva Linga.
2. Architectural Blend:
The temple reflects the blend of Vajrayana Buddhist and Hindu architectural styles, signifying its transition from being a Buddhist center to a Shiva temple.
The central sanctum houses a bronze statue of Lord Shiva in a seated yogic posture, one of the oldest and most significant images of its kind in India.
3. Association with Buddhism:
Historical records suggest that Kadri was initially a Buddhist monastery and a center of Vajrayana Buddhism before Hinduism became dominant in the region.
The presence of "Jogi Mutt" near the temple indicates a connection with Nath yogis, who are believed to have been instrumental in converting the monastery into a Hindu temple.
4. Sacred Tanks and Springs:
The temple is famous for its seven sacred ponds (Pushkarini) located near the main sanctum.
A natural spring, known as Gomukha, flows from the hills behind the temple and is used for ritual purification.
5. Mythology of Kadrivana:
The name "Kadri" is derived from the word "Kadrivana," meaning a forest of Kadri trees, where the temple is situated.
Cultural and Religious Practices
Kadri Manjunatha Temple is a significant pilgrimage center, especially during Karthika Masa (November–December) and the annual Rathotsava (car festival).
The temple celebrates a variety of festivals, including Maha Shivaratri, with grand rituals and ceremonies.
Present Status
The Kadri Manjunath Temple stands as a symbol of South Indian religious heritage and attracts devotees and tourists alike. It continues to be an important center for worship and spiritual solace in the region.
Isha MishraIsha Mishra
It's a beautiful temple in the Mangalore. This temple is dedicated to Lord Manjunatha as well as other deities such as Lord Ganapathi, Goddess Durgaparameshwari, Lord Ayyappa. There are ponds within the premises if you want to take a dip. Since it is located amidst nature, it brings in a certain aura and peace. Lots of parking available too. Go around 10 am coz the crowd is less. There is a natural spring at the temple premises and the water flow is constant throughout the year. It is called a Gomukha thirtha. If you are a followed for Lord ShivaJi, you can offer your respect by pouring holy water on the Shivling here. Tallest wel-come statue of Lord Hanuman is located on the top of Kadri Hills at Kadri Manjunath Temple. We witness the SatyaNarayanJi pooja. The peaceful environment that the temple embodies provides absolute tranquility.
This old and ancient temple is surrounded by a picturesque scene of natural beauty.
The story of the Kadri Manjunatha Temple in Mangalore, Karnataka is based on the legend of Parashurama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu:
Parashurama's penance
After killing the cruel Kshatriyas, Parashurama donated the land to Kashyapa and prayed to Lord Shiva for a place to live.
Lord Shiva's promise
Lord Shiva told Parashurama to perform penance at Kadali Kshethra, and he would reincarnate as Manjunatha to improve the world.
Parashurama's struggle
Parashurama threw his axe into the sea to create a place for his penance. He fought with the ocean king to secure the land, and the king eventually gave it to Parashurama.
Lord Shiva's appearance
Lord Shiva appeared to Parashurama as Manjunatha with Goddess Parvathi. He ordered Parashurama to build a temple with the help of Vishwakarma, a divine sculptor.
The temple
The Kadri Manjunatha Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be the oldest Shiva temple in Mangalore. It's also known as Dharma Sthala, which means "a place that values truth and dharma".
The temple is famous for its annual car festival during Makar Sankranti, and its light festival during Karthika Masa. It also has tanks with natural springs and laterite caves known as the Pandava Caves.
Reviews
Reviews of Kadri Shree Manjunatha Temple
4.8
(5,218)
5.0
10w🌟 Kadri Shree Manjunatha Temple, Mangaluru is a serene and spiritually uplifting destination that beautifully blends history, architecture, and divinity 🕉️. Located atop a small hill, the temple welcomes visitors with ancient stone steps, lush greenery 🌿, and an atmosphere filled with peace and devotion. From the moment you arrive, the scent of incense sticks 🌸, the sound of temple bells 🔔, and chants echoing in the background 🎶 create a deeply calming aura.
The main deity, Lord...
Read more
5.0
14wNestled in the lap of nature and spirituality, this revered temple is a unique confluence of architectural beauty, religious importance, and cultural heritage. One of its most iconic features is the bronze idol of Lokeshwara, a rare and spiritually significant sculpture that draws thousands of devotees every year. This idol is admired not only for its artistic elegance but also for its profound symbolism of compassion and divine presence. The temple complex is surrounded by seven sacred...
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5.0
39wKadri Manjunath Temple is a historic and revered Hindu temple located in Mangalore, Karnataka. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is renowned for its architectural significance, ancient traditions, and religious importance. The deity here is worshipped as Lord Manjunatha, an incarnation of Shiva.
Historical and Mythological Significance
- Origins and Legend:
The temple is believed to have been built in the 10th or 11th century, with roots tracing back to the Kadri Hills, which are...
Read more
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