Annapoorneshwari Temple

The Annapoorneshwari Temple sits at 831 meters elevation in the Western Ghats between dense forests and valleys along the Bhadra River. The golden statue of the goddess stands in the main shrine under a carved wooden roof, surrounded by several smaller shrines across the sprawling temple grounds.

Sage Agasthya founded the shrine in the 8th century as a place of worship in this remote mountain region. The current golden statue of the goddess was consecrated only in 1973 and replaced the earlier representation of the deity.

All visitors receive three daily meals as blessed offerings because the goddess is seen as protector against hunger and need. This practice takes place in a dedicated dining hall and demonstrates the central belief in divine care through food.

The temple opens daily from 6:30 AM to 9:30 PM and requires men to remove their shirts and cover their shoulders. Women must wear fully covered clothing, and all visitors should bring comfortable footwear for the sprawling grounds.

The priesthood has been passed down within the same family for over 400 years, maintaining an unbroken line of tradition. This continuity shows in the consistent rituals and the particular way daily ceremonies are conducted.