Sringeri Sharada Peetham

Sringeri Sharada Peetham is a Hindu pilgrimage site along the Tunga River in southern Karnataka. The compound includes several temples, residences for monks, and courtyards with old trees connected by stone pathways.

The philosopher Adi Shankara founded this site in the 8th century to advance and spread Hindu teachings. Many of the current temple structures were built in the 14th century under Vijayanagara rulers who supported the center generously.

The center trains young priests and scholars who study sacred texts and perform daily rituals following ancient guidelines. The library preserves palm-leaf manuscripts that visitors can sometimes view during guided tours.

The site opens at 6 in the morning and again from 5 to 9 in the evening for ceremonies and visits. Clothing should cover shoulders and knees, and shoes must be removed before entering temple structures.

A small golden figure of the goddess sits above a Sri Chakra, a geometric pattern carved directly into the granite floor. The river splits the compound in two, so visitors walk across a bridge from one temple to another.