Puttur Shree Mahalingeshwara Temple

Puttur Shree Mahalingeshwara Temple is a Hindu sacred site in Dakshina Kannada district that houses a four-faced Lingam in its main sanctum. This sacred stone structure forms the spiritual center of the complex.

In the 12th century, three Brahmin followers of the Shaiva tradition brought a sacred Shiva Linga from Kashi to this location. The artifact remained fixed here permanently and became the foundation for the temple that stands today.

The temple draws devotees throughout the year, especially during Mahashivarathri when nights fill with prayers and rituals. These celebrations bring together people from the surrounding area in shared spiritual practice.

The temple is managed by the Department of Muzarai under the Karnataka Government and remains open to visitors throughout the year. Staff maintain the facilities and accommodate the many thousands of pilgrims who arrive annually.

The local place names around the site such as Kombettu and Kariyala have unusual origins in an old legend about an elephant. According to the story, the animal tried to lift the sacred Linga, and these names refer to different parts of the creature.

Location: Dakshina Kannada district

GPS coordinates: 12.76320,75.20010

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:47