Dharmasthala, Religious temple town in Dakshina Kannada, India.
Dharmasthala is a religious town in Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka, sitting along the Nethravathi River and centered around a temple complex with several shrines. The buildings show design elements from both Hindu and Jain traditions, including a golden lingam in the main sanctuary.
The settlement changed from a place called Kuduma to a pilgrimage center about 800 years ago after a Jain leader named Birmanna Pergade introduced religious rites there. His descendants continue to manage the temple complex today, keeping the blend of both spiritual traditions.
The temple complex is managed by a family from the Jain community, while Brahmin priests conduct daily ceremonies for the Hindu deity Manjunatha. This tradition shows in the open atmosphere where people of all faiths pray and participate in rituals together.
The grounds can be explored on foot, with most visitors arriving early in the morning or late afternoon when it is less crowded. Free meals are served in large dining halls that remain accessible even during busy periods.
The Heggade, head of the managing family, holds regular public audience hours where visitors can bring personal disputes or concerns. This informal justice system follows centuries-old methods and is seen as trustworthy by many people in the region.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
