Places To Visit in Dharmasthala

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Looking for a one-of-a-kind tourist destination that combines religious pilgrimage with breathtaking natural beauty? Look no further than Dharmasthala, one of the top sights in India.

Nestled in the lush greenery of the Western Ghats, Dharmasthala is a popular destination for tourists seeking spiritual enlightenment, as well as those who want to soak in the region’s stunning landscapes.

As a major center of worship for Hindu devotees, Dharmasthala boasts numerous temples and shrines, including the famous Sri Manjunatha Temple, which houses a sacred Shiva linga. Visitors can also explore the intricately carved wooden chariots and silver palanquins used in religious processions.

But Dharmasthala isn’t just about spirituality – it also offers a wealth of natural attractions that are sure to delight any tourist. Take a stroll through the nearby Netravathi River Valley, where you’ll find rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, and lush green forests. Or visit the nearby Kukke Subramanya Temple, a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Subramanya.

So if you’re looking for an unforgettable tourism experience, come visit Dharmasthala today. With its unique blend of religious significance and natural beauty, it’s no wonder this destination is one of the top tourist places in India.

About Dharmasthala

Dharmasthala is a small town located in the Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka, India. It is renowned as a major pilgrimage center for Hindus, attracting millions of devotees and tourists every year.

The town is home to the Sri Manjunatha Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to have been established over 800 years ago by the Jain chieftain Birmanna Pergade. According to legend, Pergade was visited by Lord Shiva in a dream and was instructed to build a temple dedicated to him in Dharmasthala. The temple was later taken over by the Heggade family, who have been its hereditary administrators ever since.

Over the centuries, the temple has become renowned for its unique and inclusive approach to religion. Although it is primarily a Hindu temple, it is open to people of all faiths, and visitors of any religion can participate in the temple’s daily rituals and offerings. This approach has helped to foster a spirit of unity and tolerance among the people of Dharmasthala and has made it a symbol of communal harmony.

In addition to the Sri Manjunatha Temple, Dharmasthala is home to several other important religious sites, including the Jain Basadi, the Shiva Temple, and the Annapoorneshwari Temple.

Today, Dharmasthala has emerged as one of the top tourist places in India, attracting visitors not only for its religious significance but also for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. The town has undergone significant development in recent years, with the establishment of several new tourist amenities and attractions, including a museum, a cultural center, and a heritage village. Despite these changes, however, the town has managed to preserve its unique character and continues to be a beacon of peace, harmony, and spirituality in India.

Architecture of Dharmasthala

The architecture of Dharmasthala is a unique blend of different styles and influences, reflecting the town’s rich cultural and religious heritage.

The Sri Manjunatha Temple, which is the town’s most famous landmark, is a prime example of the Dravidian style of architecture. It is characterized by its tall, ornate gopuram (tower) and its intricately carved sculptures and motifs. The temple’s sanctum sanctorum, or garbha griha, is a small and dark space where the sacred Shiva linga is housed.

The Jain Basadi, located adjacent to the Sri Manjunatha Temple, is a fine example of the Jain style of architecture. It features elaborate carvings and sculptures of Jain Tirthankaras and is renowned for its exquisite stone work.

The Annapoorneshwari Temple, located about 3 km from the Sri Manjunatha Temple, is another important religious site in Dharmasthala. It features a unique blend of Kerala and Dravidian styles of architecture and is famous for its beautifully carved wooden pillars and intricate ceiling.

In addition to these religious structures, Dharmasthala also boasts several other important landmarks, including the Bahubali statue, which is one of the largest monolithic statues in the world. The statue, which stands at a height of 39 feet, is a masterpiece of Jain art and architecture and is considered to be a symbol of peace and non-violence.

Overall, the architecture of Dharmasthala is a testament to the town’s rich cultural heritage and its unique blend of different styles and influences. It is a living testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the people who have made this town a symbol of peace, harmony, and spirituality.

20 Places to Visit in Dharmasthala

1. Sri Manjunatha Temple – A major pilgrimage site for Hindus, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
2. Bahubali Statue – One of the largest monolithic statues in the world, depicting the Jain saint Bahubali.
3. Jain Basadi – A Jain temple with intricate carvings and sculptures of Jain Tirthankaras.
4. Annapoorneshwari Temple – A temple dedicated to the goddess Annapoorneshwari, known for its beautiful wooden pillars and ceiling.
5. Kukke Subramanya Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Subramanya, located in the scenic Western Ghats.
6. Netravathi River Valley – A picturesque valley with scenic views of the Netravathi River.
7. Shri Ram Mandir – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ram, with beautiful carvings and sculptures.
8. Nellitheertha Cave Temple – A cave temple located on the banks of the Nellitheertha River.
9. Manjusha Museum – A museum showcasing traditional Indian art and culture.
10. Manjusha Art Gallery – An art gallery featuring works of renowned Indian artists.
11. Ratnagiri Jain Temples – A group of Jain temples with beautifully carved sculptures and pillars.
12. Kateel Durga Parameshwari Temple – A temple dedicated to the goddess Durga, located on an island in the Nandini River.
13. Udupi Sri Krishna Matha – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, famous for its South Indian architecture.
14. St. Mary’s Island – A group of small islands with beautiful rock formations and beaches.
15. Gokarna Beach – A scenic beach town famous for its temples and beaches.
16. Murudeshwar Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, with a 123 feet tall statue of Lord Shiva.
17. Jog Falls – A spectacular waterfall located in the Western Ghats, known for its natural beauty.
18. Agumbe Rainforest – A dense rainforest known for its biodiversity and scenic beauty.
19. Sringeri Sharada Peetham – A Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Sharada, located on the banks of the Tunga River.
20. Belur and Halebid Temples – A group of ancient Hindu temples with intricate carvings and sculptures, located in the Hassan district of Karnataka.

Each of these destinations offers a unique experience and is worth visiting for different reasons. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, spirituality, or natural beauty, Dharmasthala has something to offer for everyone.

Weather and Best Time to Visit Dharmasthala

Dharmasthala has a tropical climate, with hot summers and moderate winters. The best time to visit Dharmasthala is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. During this time, the temperature ranges from 15°C to 30°C, and the skies are clear and sunny.

The monsoon season in Dharmasthala lasts from June to September, and the town receives heavy rainfall during this time. While the lush green surroundings make for a beautiful sight, it can also make outdoor activities difficult. The summer months of April and May can be quite hot, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 40°C.

Overall, the best time to visit Dharmasthala is during the winter months between October and March, when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, if you don’t mind the rain and want to experience the lush greenery, you can also plan your visit during the monsoon season. It is advisable to check the weather forecast before planning your trip to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

How To Reach Dharmasthala

Dharmasthala is located in the state of Karnataka in India and is well-connected by air, road, and rail. Here’s how you can reach Dharmasthala:

1. By Air: The nearest airport to Dharmasthala is Mangalore International Airport, which is located around 75 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Dharmasthala.
2. By Road: Dharmasthala is well-connected by road, and you can easily reach here by bus or taxi. The town is located on the National Highway 75, which connects Bangalore and Mangalore. Regular buses are also available from nearby cities like Bangalore, Mangalore, and Udupi.
3. By Rail: The nearest railway station to Dharmasthala is the Subrahmanya Road Railway Station, located around 17 km away. Trains from major cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, and Mangalore stop at this station. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Dharmasthala.

Once you reach Dharmasthala, you can easily explore the town and its various attractions by foot or by hiring a local taxi or auto-rickshaw.

Accommodation Options in Dharmasthala

Dharmasthala is a popular pilgrimage town in Karnataka, and there are several accommodation options available here to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the accommodation options in Dharmasthala:

1. Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatha Swamy Kalyana Mantapa – This is a popular accommodation option in Dharmasthala, located close to the Sri Manjunatha Temple. The rooms here are clean and comfortable, and the staff is courteous and helpful.
2. Hotel Nethravathi – This is a budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Dharmasthala. The rooms here are clean and well-maintained, and the hotel also has a restaurant that serves delicious vegetarian food.
3. Vasantha Mahal – This is another popular accommodation option in Dharmasthala, located close to the Sri Manjunatha Temple. The rooms here are spacious and clean, and the staff is friendly and helpful.
4. Hotel Kamath Yatri Nivas – This is a mid-range hotel located near the bus stand in Dharmasthala. The rooms here are comfortable and well-maintained, and the hotel also has a restaurant that serves delicious vegetarian food.
5. Panchami Hotel – This is a budget-friendly hotel located close to the Sri Manjunatha Temple. The rooms here are basic but clean, and the hotel also has a restaurant that serves vegetarian food.

Apart from these options, there are also several homestays and guesthouses available in and around Dharmasthala, which offer a more personalized and homely experience. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak season, to ensure availability and to get the best rates.

10 Hotels to Stay in Dharmasthala As per Users Reviews and Ratings

Here’s a brief on the top 10 hotels to stay in Dharmasthala based on user reviews and ratings:

1. Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatha Swamy Kalyana Mantapa – This hotel has received excellent reviews from users for its proximity to the Sri Manjunatha Temple, cleanliness, comfortable rooms, and courteous staff.
2. Hotel Nethravathi – This budget-friendly hotel has received high ratings for its clean and well-maintained rooms, restaurant serving delicious vegetarian food, and excellent location in the heart of Dharmasthala.
3. Vasantha Mahal – This hotel has been praised by users for its spacious and clean rooms, friendly and helpful staff, and proximity to the Sri Manjunatha Temple.
4. Hotel Kamath Yatri Nivas – This mid-range hotel has received positive reviews for its comfortable and well-maintained rooms, restaurant serving delicious vegetarian food, and convenient location near the bus stand in Dharmasthala.
5. Panchami Hotel – This budget-friendly hotel has received good reviews for its clean and basic rooms, restaurant serving vegetarian food, and proximity to the Sri Manjunatha Temple.
6. Shantala Lodge – This budget-friendly lodge has received positive reviews for its clean and basic rooms, convenient location, and helpful staff.
7. Sahyadri Lodge – This budget-friendly lodge has been praised by users for its clean and basic rooms, friendly staff, and convenient location.
8. Dharmasthala Homestay – This homestay has received excellent reviews for its personalized and homely experience, clean and comfortable rooms, and delicious home-cooked vegetarian food.
9. Rukmini Residency – This budget-friendly hotel has been praised by users for its clean and comfortable rooms, helpful staff, and convenient location.
10. Rajathadri Hill Villa – This luxury villa has received excellent reviews for its beautiful location amidst lush greenery, spacious and comfortable rooms, and excellent service.

Travel Tips To know Before Your Trip to Dharmasthala

If you are planning a trip to Dharmasthala, here are some travel tips to keep in mind:

1. Dress Code: Dharmasthala is a holy place and visitors are expected to dress modestly. It is advisable to wear traditional Indian attire or clothes that cover your shoulders and knees while visiting the temple.
2. Footwear: Visitors are not allowed to wear footwear inside the temple premises. It is advisable to carry a separate bag to keep your footwear and other belongings.
3. Weather: Dharmasthala experiences a tropical climate and can be quite hot and humid during the summer months. It is advisable to carry light and comfortable clothing and keep yourself hydrated.
4. Peak Season: Dharmasthala attracts a large number of visitors during festivals and special occasions. It is advisable to book your accommodation and travel arrangements in advance, especially during peak season.
5. Food: Dharmasthala is predominantly a vegetarian town and non-vegetarian food is not easily available. It is advisable to try the local vegetarian cuisine which is delicious and unique.
6. Transportation: Dharmasthala is well-connected by road and buses are the most popular mode of transportation. It is advisable to book your bus tickets in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season.
7. Language: The official language of Dharmasthala is Kannada, but Hindi and English are also widely spoken. It is advisable to carry a translation app or a phrasebook to communicate with the locals.
8. Photography: Photography is allowed inside the temple premises, but it is advisable to ask for permission before clicking pictures of the deity or any other religious objects.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure a comfortable and hassle-free trip to Dharmasthala.

Travel Mistakes to Avoid in Dharmasthala

If you are planning a trip to Dharmasthala, here are some common travel mistakes to avoid:

1. Dress Code: Visitors are expected to dress modestly while visiting the temple. Avoid wearing revealing clothes or shorts as it is considered disrespectful.
2. Footwear: Visitors are not allowed to wear footwear inside the temple premises. It is advisable to carry a separate bag to keep your footwear and other belongings.
3. Photography: While photography is allowed inside the temple premises, it is advisable to ask for permission before clicking pictures of the deity or any other religious objects.
4. Eating Non-vegetarian food: Dharmasthala is predominantly a vegetarian town and non-vegetarian food is not easily available. Avoid eating non-vegetarian food in the town.
5. Littering: Dharmasthala is a clean and well-maintained town. Avoid littering or throwing garbage in public places.
6. Not booking accommodation in advance: Dharmasthala attracts a large number of visitors, especially during festivals and special occasions. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
7. Not carrying enough cash: Dharmasthala is a small town and most shops and restaurants do not accept credit or debit cards. It is advisable to carry enough cash to avoid any inconvenience.
8. Not respecting local customs and traditions: Dharmasthala is a holy place and visitors are expected to respect local customs and traditions. Avoid any behavior that may offend the locals or hurt religious sentiments.

By avoiding these common travel mistakes, you can ensure a pleasant and comfortable trip to Dharmasthala.

Best Places for Shopping in Dharmasthala

Dharmasthala is a small town and does not have many options for shopping. However, visitors can buy souvenirs and religious items from the local shops and markets. Here are some of the best places for shopping in Dharmasthala:

1. Souvenir Shop: The Souvenir Shop located inside the temple premises offers a wide range of religious items and souvenirs such as idols, books, prayer beads, and other items.
2. Local Markets: The local markets in Dharmasthala offer a range of handmade crafts, including traditional clothing, jewelry, and handloom fabrics.
3. Kukke Subramanya Road: Kukke Subramanya Road, located near the temple, has several shops selling traditional sarees, dress materials, and religious items.
4. Ujire Market: Ujire Market is a popular destination for buying fresh produce, vegetables, and fruits. Visitors can also buy local spices, tea, and coffee.
5. Dharmasthala Handloom House: Dharmasthala Handloom House is a cooperative society that promotes the traditional handloom industry of the region. Visitors can buy handloom fabrics and clothing directly from the weavers.

While shopping in Dharmasthala, visitors should keep in mind that bargaining is not common, and prices are usually fixed. It is also advisable to check the quality and authenticity of the products before making a purchase.

Food To Eat in Dharmasthala

Dharmasthala is a predominantly vegetarian town and has many options for delicious vegetarian food. Here are some of the must-try food items in Dharmasthala:

1. Neer Dosa: Neer Dosa is a popular breakfast item in Dharmasthala. It is a soft and thin rice pancake served with coconut chutney.
2. Kadubu: Kadubu is a steamed rice cake stuffed with a mixture of lentils, coconut, and spices. It is a popular snack item in Dharmasthala.
3. Menaskai: Menaskai is a sweet and sour curry made with tamarind, jaggery, and coconut. It is usually served with rice or roti.
4. Basale Soppu Saaru: Basale Soppu Saaru is a spicy curry made with Malabar Spinach leaves, lentils, and spices. It is a popular dish in coastal Karnataka and is usually served with rice or roti.
5. Dalithoy: Dalithoy is a simple and flavorful lentil soup made with split pigeon peas, tomatoes, and spices. It is usually served with rice or roti.
6. Akki Roti: Akki Roti is a type of flatbread made with rice flour and spices. It is usually served with coconut chutney or vegetable curry.
7. Kesari Bath: Kesari Bath is a sweet and saffron-flavored pudding made with semolina, sugar, and ghee. It is a popular dessert item in Dharmasthala.

While in Dharmasthala, visitors should also try the local filter coffee, which is strong and flavorful. There are also several restaurants and eateries in the town that serve North Indian, South Indian, and Chinese cuisine.

Things You Can Buy as a Tourist

Dharmasthala is a small town in Karnataka and does not have a wide range of shopping options. However, visitors can buy souvenirs and religious items from the local shops and markets. Here are some of the things you should buy as a tourist in Dharmasthala:

1. Religious Items: Dharmasthala is a popular pilgrimage destination, and visitors can buy a range of religious items such as idols, prayer beads, and books from the local shops and markets.
2. Handloom Fabrics: Dharmasthala is known for its traditional handloom industry, and visitors can buy handloom fabrics and clothing from the local markets.
3. Spices: Karnataka is known for its aromatic spices, and visitors can buy a range of spices such as cardamom, pepper, and cloves from the local markets.
4. Coffee: Coorg, a nearby town, is known for its coffee plantations, and visitors can buy fresh coffee beans and powder from the local markets.
5. Wooden Handicrafts: The artisans of the region are skilled in making wooden handicrafts such as carved statues, kitchenware, and furniture.
6. Souvenirs: Visitors can also buy souvenirs such as keychains, fridge magnets, and postcards from the local shops.

Dharmasthala Handloom House is a cooperative society that promotes the traditional handloom industry of the region. Visitors can buy handloom fabrics and clothing directly from the weavers. The town also has several shops selling wooden handicrafts and religious items. Visitors should keep in mind that bargaining is not common, and prices are usually fixed. It is also advisable to check the quality and authenticity of the products before making a purchase.

Nightlife in Dharmasthala

Dharmasthala is a religious town and does not have a nightlife scene. The town follows a strict code of conduct, and it is not advisable to indulge in activities that may offend the locals’ sensibilities. The town shuts down early, and most shops and restaurants close by 8 pm.

Visitors can spend their evenings exploring the temples and attending the evening pooja ceremonies, which are a unique experience. The town also has several parks and gardens where visitors can take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

If you are looking for a more vibrant nightlife, nearby towns such as Mangalore and Udupi offer a range of options. These towns have bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can enjoy music, food, and drinks. However, it is advisable to check the local laws and customs before indulging in any nightlife activities.

Activities and Things to Do in Dharmasthala

Dharmasthala is a religious town that offers a range of activities and things to do for visitors. Here are some of the popular activities and things to do in Dharmasthala:

1. Visit the Shri Manjunatha Swamy Temple: The temple is the main attraction of the town and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Visitors can attend the daily pooja ceremonies and witness the elaborate rituals.
2. Visit the Bahubali Statue: The Bahubali Statue is a towering 39-feet-tall statue of the Jain deity Bahubali. It is located on top of a hill and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
3. Visit the Annappa Betta: Annappa Betta is a small hill located near Dharmasthala. Visitors can take a short trek to the top of the hill and enjoy the beautiful views of the countryside.
4. Visit the Chandranatha Swamy Basadi: The Chandranatha Swamy Basadi is a Jain temple located near the Manjunatha Swamy Temple. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and architecture.
5. Explore the local markets: Dharmasthala has a range of local markets selling handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional clothing. Visitors can explore these markets and buy authentic local products.
6. Attend the cultural events: The town hosts several cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Visitors can attend these events and experience the local culture.
7. Take a day trip to nearby towns: Dharmasthala is located near several other towns and cities such as Udupi and Mangalore. Visitors can take a day trip to these towns and explore their attractions.
8. Take a dip in the Netravati River: The Netravati River flows through Dharmasthala, and visitors can take a dip in the river and enjoy the scenic beauty.

These are some of the popular activities and things to do in Dharmasthala that visitors can enjoy.

Lesser Known Facts About Dharmasthala

Dharmasthala is a popular pilgrimage town in Karnataka, India, known for its famous temple and rich cultural heritage. Here are some lesser-known facts about Dharmasthala:

1. The temple town is unique in that it is managed by a Jain family, the Heggades, who have been the temple’s hereditary administrators for over 800 years.
2. The temple has a unique system called ‘Akshaya Patra,’ where free meals are provided to all the devotees who visit the temple. The kitchen is one of the largest in the world and can serve up to 30,000 people in a day.
3. The temple houses a 39-foot tall monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali, which is the second-largest statue in the world. The statue was carved out of a single block of granite and weighs around 175 tonnes.
4. The town has a unique temple for Lord Manjunatha Swamy, which is dedicated to both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. The temple is one of the few in India where both deities are worshipped under the same roof.
5. The town is known for its philanthropic activities and runs several schools and colleges, including medical and engineering colleges, that provide education to students from all over India.
6. Dharmasthala is home to several rare and endangered species of flora and fauna, including the Indian giant squirrel, the Malabar giant squirrel, and the flying lizard.
7. The town has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its traditional Yakshagana performances, which are a form of classical dance-drama that tells stories from Hindu mythology.

These are some of the lesser-known facts about Dharmasthala that make it a unique and fascinating destination for visitors.

FAQ About Dharmasthala

Q: What is Dharmasthala known for?

A: Dharmasthala is known for its famous temple dedicated to Lord Manjunatha Swamy and the unique system of providing free meals to all the devotees who visit the temple.

Q: What is the best time to visit Dharmasthala?

A: The best time to visit Dharmasthala is from October to February when the weather is pleasant, and the temple town is bustling with festivities.

Q: What are the accommodation options in Dharmasthala?

A: Dharmasthala offers a range of accommodation options, including guesthouses, lodges, and resorts, that cater to the needs of all types of travelers.

Q: How can I reach Dharmasthala?

A: Dharmasthala is well-connected by road and can be reached by bus, car, or taxi. The nearest railway station is in Mangalore, which is around 75 km away, and the nearest airport is the Mangalore International Airport, which is around 80 km away.

Q: What are the top places to visit in Dharmasthala?

A: Some of the top places to visit in Dharmasthala are the Manjunatha Temple, Bahubali Statue, Netravathi River Barrage, Shri Kshetra Kateel, and Shri Kshetra Dharmasthala Manjusha Museum.

Q: What are the must-try foods in Dharmasthala?

A: Some of the must-try foods in Dharmasthala are the temple’s famous free meals, the local delicacy of ‘Kadubu,’ and the traditional sweets of ‘Holige’ and ‘Mysore Pak.’

Q: What are the things to do in Dharmasthala?

A: Some of the things to do in Dharmasthala are to explore the temple town’s rich cultural heritage, take part in Yakshagana performances, go on nature walks, and visit nearby attractions such as the Subramanya temple and the Kukke Subramanya temple.

Q: Are there any shopping options in Dharmasthala?

A: Yes, Dharmasthala has several shopping options, including local markets that sell handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional silk sarees.

Q: What are the lesser-known facts about Dharmasthala?

A: Some of the lesser-known facts about Dharmasthala are that it is managed by a Jain family, the Heggades, who have been the temple’s hereditary administrators for over 800 years, and the town is home to several rare and endangered species of flora and fauna.