Kodlamane Sri Vishnumurthy Temple, Murudeshwar - Timings, Festivals, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

About Kollur Mookambika Temple

At a distance of 60 km from Murudeshwar, 73 km from Udupi, and 133 km from Mangalore, Sri Mookambika Devi Temple is a Hindu temple situated at Kollur in Udupi district of Karnataka. The temple is located in the valley of Kodachadri Mountain Peak on the banks of Souparnika River. Kollur is regarded as one of the Seven Mukti Stalas created by Parashurama while the other places being Udupi, Kukke Subrahmanya, Kumbasi, Kodeshwara, Sankaranarayana and Gokarna. It is one of the famous pilgrimage sites in Karnataka, and among the top places to visit near Murudeshwar.

History of Mookambika Temple

The Mookambika Temple, located in Kollur, is devoted to Goddess Parvathi. As per history, Adi Shankaracharya founded the temple in the 8th century following a divine vision of the goddess. Over the years, the temple has undergone renovations and expansions, significantly influenced by various rulers and devotees. Notable contributions to its development were made by the Vijayanagara Empire, the Keladi Nayakas, and the Wodeyar dynasty. Additionally, Sri Vidyadheesha Tirtha Swamiji, associated with the Udupi Ashta Matha lineage, played a crucial role in enhancing the temple's stature.

Mythology

Goddess Parvathi is revered as Mookambika in this temple. According to legend, at the behest of Kola Maharishi, she killed a demon named Kamsasuran, who resided in the area and sought to gain strength through his penance. With the assistance of Veerabadra, Ganesha, and Shiva, she first rendered him mute, leading to his name Mookasuran (where 'Mooka' signifies dumb). Subsequently, Goddess Parvathi amalgamated the powers of the Trimurthis and all deities, ultimately defeating Mookasura and merging into the Jyotirlinga, where she is now known as Mookambike, safeguarding her devotees. The swayambhu linga is distinguished by a golden line that bisects it into two sections: the left half symbolizes the goddess triad, the Tridevis, while the right half represents their male counterparts, the Trimurtis.

The Kollur Shree Kshetram is recognized as one of the seven sacred sites of salvation established by Parashurama. According to mythology, Sage Parashurama created seven Moksha Kshethras in the ancient Tulu Nadu, with the temple at Kollur being one of these revered locations. Here, the goddess is worshipped as the 'Shakthi Devathe.' It is said that the eminent philosopher Adi Shankaracharya visited this temple to engage in penance and is also believed to have consecrated the idol of Goddess Mookambika.

Architecture of Mookambika Temple

The architecture of the Mookambika Temple showcases a harmonious blend of various styles, including Dravidian, Vijayanagara, and Hoysala influences. The temple has a central tower called gopura embellished with intricate carvings and sculptures of Hindu deities. The primary entrance, located on the eastern side, leads to the gold-plated Dhwajasthambha, with a Deepasthambha positioned behind it, featuring a striking sculpture of Ganapathi on the pillar, commonly referred to as Kambhada Ganapathi. The temple also features a spacious mandapa, richly decorated with exquisite carvings of various deities. Surrounding the main shrine is a grand prakara corridor, which is lined with smaller shrines dedicated to deities such as Lord Ganesha, Lord Subramanya, and Lord Vishnu. Within the temple grounds lies a sacred tank known as 'Mookambika Theertha.'

At the heart of the temple, the sanctum enshrines a swayambhu linga, characterized by a golden line that divides it into two halves; the left half symbolizes the goddess triad, the Tridevis, while the right half represents their male counterparts, the Trimurtis. This unique representation of Adi Shakthi is exclusive to this location. Additionally, a three-foot-tall idol of the goddess Mookambika, crafted from panchaloha, is situated within the sanctum. The idol is notably captivating, featuring four arms that hold the Shankha, Chakra, Abhaya, and Varada Hastha.

Festivals of Mookambika Temple

Navrathri and Brahma Rathotsava (held in March) are the major festivals celebrated at Mookambika temple. Saraswathi Puja during the Navrathri Festival is the main event celebrated here and large numbers of pilgrims visit this temple on this occasion. Janmashtami is also a popular festival celebrated here.

Dress Code & Other Restrictions

The recommended dress code for the Mookmbika 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 Mookambika Temple, adherence to the dress code is expected.

Mookambika Temple Timings

Monday: 5 AM - 1.30 PM and 3 PM - 9 PM
Tuesday: 5 AM - 1.30 PM and 3 PM - 9 PM
Wednesday: 5 AM - 1.30 PM and 3 PM - 9 PM
Thursday: 5 AM - 1.30 PM and 3 PM - 9 PM
Friday: 5 AM - 1.30 PM and 3 PM - 9 PM
Saturday: 5 AM - 1.30 PM and 3 PM - 9 PM
Sunday: 5 AM - 1.30 PM and 3 PM - 9 PM

Kollur Mookambika Temple Entry Fee

General Entry is Free
Special darshan available for Rs. 100

Best Time to Visit Mookambika Temple

The best time for visiting Kollur Mookambika Temple is from October to March, as the winter months provide a pleasant climate conducive to exploration and religious observance. Furthermore, the Navrathri festival, typically occurring in September or October, represents a significant event at the temple, characterized by vibrant celebrations and deep devotion, drawing numerous devotees. It is essential to be aware that the temple tends to be crowded on weekends, holidays, and other auspicious occasions so planning your visit accordingly can help avoid large crowds. For those seeking a quieter experience, the off-season from April to September is advisable, although it is worth noting that the weather during this period can be hot and humid.

How to Reach Mookambika Temple

Mangalore is the nearest airport, which is around 130 km from Kollur. About 40 km, Kundapura is the nearest railway station which is well-connected to all major cities. From here one can take a taxi to reach Kollur Temple. Regular private bus services are available to reach Kollur from Mangalore, Udipi, Kundapura.