Sri Mookambika Temple at Kollur, located in the foothills of the Western Ghats in Udupi district, Karnataka, is one of the most sacred shrines dedicated to Goddess Mookambika Devi. The temple is a famous Shakti Peetha and draws lakhs of devotees every year from across India, especially from Karnataka and Kerala. The presiding deity, Sri Mookambika, is worshipped as the embodiment of Shakti, Saraswati, and Mahalakshmi combined.
According to legend, the temple stands on the spot where Goddess Parvati defeated the demon Mookasura. Adi Shankaracharya is believed to have installed the idol here after having a divine vision of the goddess. The main sanctum houses a swayambhu (self-manifested) Jyotirlinga, which has a golden line across it symbolizing the union of Shiva and Shakti. This makes Kollur unique, as both Shakti and Shiva are worshipped together in one place.
The temple is also well-known for Vidyarambham (initiation of children into learning) and Navaratri celebrations, when thousands of devotees visit for blessings. Daily poojas and sevas are performed with great devotion, and the temple follows centuries-old traditions. The architecture is simple yet powerful, with a golden crest (kalasha) on the top and intricate carvings that add to its sacred aura.
One of the most special features of the temple is the Anna Prasada (free meal) served daily to all devotees. The temple provides wholesome vegetarian food as prasadam, prepared with devotion and served with love. This tradition of feeding devotees has been carried on for generations, reflecting the temple’s spirit of service, community, and inclusiveness.
Surrounded by dense forests of the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary and the peaceful Souparnika River flowing nearby, the temple’s natural setting adds to the spiritual experience. Many pilgrims also take a holy dip in the river before visiting the goddess. The entire atmosphere of Kollur blends devotion with the calmness of nature.
Sri Mookambika Temple is not just a place of worship but a lifetime spiritual experience. Located amidst greenery and mountains, it is one of the best places to visit for peace, blessings, and divine energy. Visitors are requested to maintain cleanliness and respect the sanctity of the place.
Location: Sri Mookambika Temple, Kollur, Byndoor Taluk, Udupi District, Karnataka, India
Temple Timings:
Morning: 5:00 AM – 1:30 PM
Evening: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
How to Reach:
Nearest railway station: Byndoor (28 km). Kundapura (38 km) and Udupi (80 km) are also convenient.
Nearest airport: Mangalore International Airport (approx. 140 km).
Regular buses and taxis available from Udupi, Kundapura, and Mangalore.