Horanadu Annapoorneswari Temple, Sringeri - Timings, Festivals, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

About Horanadu Annapoorneshwari Temple

At a distance of 1 km from Horanadu Bus Stand, 42 km from Sringeri, and 70 km from Chikmagalur, Horanadu Annapoorneshwari Temple is a famous Hindu temple situated at Horanadu amidst the thick forests of the Western Ghats of Karnataka. It is one of the popular pilgrimage sites in Karnataka.

Sri Annapoorneshwari Temple is located along the banks of the River Bhadra and is also referred to as Sri Kshethra Horanadu or Adi Shaktyatmaka Sri Annapoorneshwari Temple. This sacred site is dedicated to Goddess Annapoorneswari, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati.

History Horanadu Annapoorneshwari Temple

It is believed that the temple was founded by Agasthya Maharishi. Originally a modest place of worship enveloped by lush natural surroundings, the temple underwent significant renovations in 1962. In 1973, a new idol of the principal deity, crafted from gold, was installed at the temple.

Mythology

The word Annapoorna is made up of two words, Anna meaning food grains and Poorna meaning complete or perfect. According to Hindu mythology, once Lord Shiva said to Parvati that food is merely a part of 'maya,' or the illusion of the world. Angered by this statement, Parvati vanished from the earth, leading to a barren existence filled with hunger due to the absence of food. Observing the suffering of living beings, Shiva retracted his statement and acknowledged that food is an essential necessity for all creatures, rather than an illusion. Subsequently, Goddess Parvati reappeared and began distributing food in Kashi. Upon learning of her actions, Shiva approached her, sought forgiveness for his earlier words, and presented his bowl in a gesture of humility. Mother Parvati then fed him with her own hands, and this form is revered as 'Annapoorna,' the provider of food.

Architecture of Horanadu Annapoorneshwari Temple

The Horanadu Annapoorneshwari Temple is a blend of Dravidian and Hoysala styles of architecture. The temple features towering gopurams, intricate sculptures, and ornate pillars. The temple has a grand entrance with steps leading to the shrine of Goddess Annapoorneshwari. On the left-hand side of the entrance is the mandapam, and a queue complex to enter the hall where the prasadam is served to the pilgrims and devotees. The Gopuram in the temple complex adorns beautiful sculptures of Hindu Gods and Goddesses. The sanctum of the temple is surrounded by Adi Sesha, and the Padma Peeta consists of Ashtagaja and Koorma, etc. The divine idol of Goddess Annapoorneshwari is made of gold and is in standing posture inthe sanctum. She is holding a Shanka, Sri Chakra, Chakra and Devi Gayathri in her four hands. It is believed that a person who seeks Annapoorneswari's blessing will never face shortage of food in life. There are shrines for Mahaganapathi, Anjaneya swami, and Nagadevas.

Pujas & Festivals of Horanadu Annapoorneshwari Temple

The main festival celebrated at this temple is Akshay Tritya, which is regarded as the day of the birth of Sri Annapoornaeshwari and also signifies the commencement of the Treta Yug. In addition to this, the temple hosts the nine-day Navrathri festival in September or October, Rathotsava in February, and Deepotsava, all celebrated with great fervor. A significant number of devotees visit the temple during these auspicious events.

This temple is also renowned for conducting naming ceremonies for newborns and the Aksharaabhyasam ritual, which prepares children to embark on their formal education, seeking the blessings of Goddess Annapoorneshwari and Goddess Saraswati.

Horanadu Annapoorneshwari Temple Dress Code & Other Restrictions

The recommended dress code for the Annapoorneshwari Temple in Karnataka emphasizes modest attire in accordance with Hindu customs. Men are encouraged to wear full pants, dhotis or mundus. Men should remove shirt when entering the darshan line. Women are advised to wear sarees, salwar kameez, or other traditional clothing that adequately covers their shoulders and legs.

Non-Hindus are generally not allowed to enter the sanctum sanctorum where the main deity is worshipped however they can access the outer areas of the temple.

Horanadu Annapoorneshwari Temple Timings

Monday: 6:30 AM - 9 AM, 11 AM - 2 PM & 7 PM - 9:30 PM
Tuesday: 6:30 AM - 9 AM, 11 AM - 2 PM & 7 PM - 9:30 PM
Wednesday: 6:30 AM - 9 AM, 11 AM - 2 PM & 7 PM - 9:30 PM
Thursday: 6:30 AM - 9 AM, 11 AM - 2 PM & 7 PM - 9:30 PM
Friday: 6:30 AM - 9 AM, 11 AM - 2 PM & 7 PM - 9:30 PM
Saturday: 6:30 AM - 9 AM, 11 AM - 2 PM & 7 PM - 9:30 PM
Sunday: 6:30 AM - 9 AM, 11 AM - 2 PM & 7 PM - 9:30 PM

Horanadu Annapoorneshwari Temple Entry Fee

General Entry is Free
Maha Pooja: Rs.500
Annaprashana: Rs. 250
Askharabyasam: Rs. 250

Best Time to Visit Horanadu Annapoorneshwari Temple

The best time to visit the Annapoorneshwari Temple in Horanadu is between October and March. During these months, the weather is pleasant and it's the peak tourist season. Beside, winter brings festive times to Horanadu as there are many celebrations and events held during this time including Navrathri, Diwali, etc. It's best to avoid the monsoon season (June to August) due to heavy rainfall. Horanadu is perfect for a summer visit as it boasts of pleasant weather even in the hottest months.

How to Reach Horanadu Annapoorneshwari Temple

Horanadu Temple is well linked by public and private buses with nearby cities like Bengaluru, Mysore, Shimoga, and Mangalore. You can also reach the temple by private cab from Chikmagalur.