Kalasa, Chikmagalur - Timings, Festivals, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

About Kalaseshwara Swami Temple

At a distance of 7 km from Horanadu,53 km from Sringeri, and 86 km from Chikmagalur, Kalasa is known for its natural beauty, surrounded by hills, coffee plantations, and the Bhadra River. The town is home to the famous Kalaseshwara Swami Temple. It is one of the popular pilgrimage towns in Karanataka, and among the must include places in Sringeri tour packages.
Situated along the banks of the Bhadra River, the Kalaseshwara Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is referred to as Dakshina Kashi in the Skanda Purana.

History of Kalaseshwara Swami Temple

It is believed that Sage Agasthya established the Kalaseshwara Temple. Researchers have identified several inscriptions dating back to 1154 CE within the temple. The sanctum is thought to have been established by King Shruth Bindu of Vidarbha. Subsequently, in the 16th century, the temple underwent renovations by the Keladi and Karkala Nayakas. Much later, the Maharaja of Mysore contributed to the creation of an ornate silver door, while Somashekhar Nayaka presented a golden crown.

Mythology

According to legend, during the wedding of Shiva and Parvati in the Himalayas, the presence of all the deities led to a disruption in the earth's rotation. In response, Lord Shiva asked Sage Agasthya to journey southward to restore balance. However, the sage expressed his desire to attend the wedding and witness the event. In turn, Lord Shiva bestowed upon Agasthya a divine vision, allowing him to observe the wedding from any location. Agasthya chose to witness the ceremony from Kalasa, where he subsequently installed a Shivlinga. The sanctum and the linga are designed in the shape of a pot, or Kalasa, which is the origin of the temple's name. The marriage is still commemorated by devotees at the Kalaseshwara Temple to this day.

Architecture of Kalaseshwara Swami Temple

The Kalaseshwara Swami Temple, situated on a hillock, exemplifies the Hoysala architectural style, characterized by its elaborate carvings, a sanctum sanctorum (garbhagriha), and a decorative temple tower. Within the sanctum, a Shivling is enshrined and revered as Kalaseshwara. Additionally, visitors may explore the nearby Girijamba Temple and Venkataramana Temple. The Kalasa region is typically included in a three-stop temple pilgrimage tour that also features Sringeri and Horanadu.

The temple town of Kalasa is renowned for its five sacred water bodies, known as Pancha Tirthas: Vasistha Theertha, Naga Theertha, Koti Theertha, Rudra Theertha, and Amba Theertha. Each of these sites is linked to significant mythological events. Furthermore, visitors can undertake a hike to Duggapan Katte, which offers panoramic views of the entire Kalasa temple town.

Festivals of Kalaseshwara Swami Temple

Girija Kalyanam, Maha Shivarathri and the Kalasa Car Festival are the most prominent festivals celebrated at Kalaseshwara Swami Temple of Kalasa. Girija Kalyanam is an annual 10-day event that commemorates the union of Shiva and Parvati, occurring on Kartika Shukla Ekadashi. The Kalasa Jatra, also known as the Car Festival, is another significant 10-day celebration held in January or February, during which the Utsava Murthy is paraded through the town.

Dress Code & Other Restrictions

The recommended dress code for the Kalasa Temple in Karnataka emphasizes modest attire in accordance with Hindu customs. Men are encouraged to wear traditional garments, such as dhotis or mundus, complemented by a shawl or angavastram draped over the upper body. Women are advised to wear sarees, salwar kameez, or other traditional clothing that adequately covers their shoulders and legs. It is important to note that jeans, shorts, and t-shirts are not permitted within the temple grounds.

While there is no formal prohibition against non-Hindus entering the Kalaseshwara Swami Temple, adherence to the dress code is expected.

Kalaseshwara Swami Temple Timings

Monday: 7:30 AM - 1 PM & 3:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Tuesday: 7:30 AM - 1 PM & 3:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Wednesday: 7:30 AM - 1 PM & 3:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Thursday: 7:30 AM - 1 PM & 3:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Friday: 7:30 AM - 1 PM & 3:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Saturday: 7:30 AM - 1 PM & 3:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Sunday: 7:30 AM - 1 PM & 3:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Kalaseshwara Swami Temple Entry Fee

General Entry is Free
Ekavara Rudrabhisheka: Rs.160

Best Time to Visit Kalaseshwara Swami Temple

The best time for visiting Kalasa is from September to March, following the monsoon season. During these months, the climate is enjoyable and cooler, making it perfect for sightseeing and engaging in outdoor pursuits. Additionally, this time is significant for the town as it hosts Hindu festivals such as Deepavali and Navaratri, where traditional ceremonies and lively celebrations reflect the cultural richness of the area. Although the preceding monsoon season enhances the landscape with vibrant greenery and the rivers and waterfalls are at their most impressive, the heavy rainfall can cause travel inconveniences. Summers tend to be hot and humid.

How to Reach Kalaseshwara Swami Temple

Kalasa lies at a distance of 85 km from Chikmagalur, 119 km from Mangalore, and 310 km from Bengaluru. It can be reached by KSRTC and private buses from Chikmagalur, Mangalore, Bangalore, and Mysore. Nearest railway station is Chikmagalur railway station while the nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport.