Manjunatha Temple
A Shiva temple on the banks of the Netravathi river, unusual for being administered for generations by a Jain Bunt family whose head bears the hereditary title of Dharmadhikari. Dharmasthala’s Manjunatha temple has been administered since at least the sixteenth century by the Jain Pergade family, whose head carries the hereditary title of Dharmadhikari, making the shrine a rare working symbol of Hindu-Jain coexistence in South India. The current Dharmadhikari, Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade, has held the post since 1968, presiding over both temple worship and a longstanding tradition in which local disputes are still heard before the temple’s court.
Manjunatha Temple at a Glance
Essential information about Manjunatha Temple.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Overview
Dharmasthala’s Manjunatha temple has been administered since at least the sixteenth century by the Jain Pergade family, whose head carries the hereditary title of Dharmadhikari, making the shrine a rare working symbol of Hindu-Jain coexistence in South India. The current Dharmadhikari, Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade, has held the post since 1968, presiding over both temple worship and a longstanding tradition in which local disputes are still heard before the temple’s court. Free lodging and meals for pilgrims, together with its setting on the Netravathi river in Dakshina Kannada’s Belthangady taluk, have made Dharmasthala one of coastal Karnataka’s most visited pilgrimage towns. Manjunatha Temple sits at an elevation of 105 m and is typically explored in about 1-2 hours. The most favourable months to visit are November, December, January, and August, when conditions are best suited for sightseeing. Nearby points of interest include Parvati Devi Shrine, Manjunatha Temple Main Shrine, and Vijayanagara-style Pillared Hall. Other notable highlights include ancient idol of Lord Manjunatha in silver chariot, daily abhishekam with Netravathi river water, and unique Jain Bunt trustees’ hereditary puja rights.
Highlights
- Ancient idol of Lord Manjunatha in silver chariot
- Daily abhishekam with Netravathi river water
- Unique Jain Bunt trustees’ hereditary puja rights
- Carved stone pillars in Kerala-style temple architecture
- Riverside ghat steps for ritual bathing
- Annual Rathotsava chariot festival in February
Getting There
Things To Do
Walk around the temple’s inner courtyard and view the ancient stone pillars and carvings
Stroll through the open corridors that surround the sanctum, where you can see centuries-old granite pillars with intricate carvings of deities, floral motifs, and mythological scenes. Notice the unique blend of Shaiva and Jain architectural influences, reflecting the temple’s dual heritage.
30 minutes
Observe the temple elephants and their morning bath at the Netravathi river ghat
In the early morning (around 8 AM), walk down the stone steps behind the temple to the Netravathi river, where the temple’s resident elephants are bathed and scrubbed by their mahouts. This is a gentle, unhurried activity where you can watch these gentle giants from a safe distance and see the daily routine of the temple’s beloved animals.
40 minutes
Watch the daily Annadanam (free community lunch) in the temple complex
Participate in or observe the free meal served to all visitors between noon and 2:30 PM, a hallmark of Dharmasthala’s charitable tradition. You will sit on long mats in the dining hall and eat a simple, wholesome South Indian meal of rice, sambar, and vegetables, served by volunteers.
45 minutes
Offer prayers at the main Manjunatha shrine and receive prasadam
Join the queue to enter the inner sanctum of Lord Manjunatha (Shiva), where you can offer coconut, flowers, and bananas as per tradition. The temple priests, appointed by the Dharmadhikari family, perform abhishekam throughout the morning, and you will receive sacred ash and holy water as prasadam.
1 hour
Visit the small shrine of the Jain Tirthankara inside the temple complex
A short walk from the main Shiva shrine, you will find a modest but significant shrine dedicated to Lord Chandranatha, the Jain Tirthankara, which stands as a symbol of the temple’s Jain administration. This is a quiet spot where you can observe Jain rituals and the peaceful coexistence of two faiths under one roof.
20 minutes
Participate in the evening aarti (lamp ceremony) at the main sanctum
Return to the temple at around 7:30 PM to witness the dramatic and soulful aarti, where priests wave oil lamps in front of the Shiva linga while bells ring and devotees chant. The atmosphere becomes deeply spiritual, and you can join the chorus of “Om Namah Shivaya” as the lamps are offered.
30 minutes
Travel Tips
Use the wheelchair and battery car services
The temple complex is large, and walking can be tiring for seniors. Free wheelchairs are available at the main entrance, and battery-operated vehicles (at a nominal charge) run from the parking area to the temple steps — ask any volunteer for assistance.
Plan for the free meal timing
The temple offers free lunch (annadanam) daily, usually between 12:00 PM and 2:30 PM. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure a seat in the large dining hall, as queues move fast but can be long for groups.
Hire a local guide for the museum and heritage walk
The temple complex includes a museum (Car Museum) and the Manjusha Museum with ancient artifacts. For seniors, a guided tour (available at the museum counter) saves energy and provides clear narration — avoid climbing the upper floors if knee pain is an issue, as elevators are not available there.
Book accommodation well in advance for overnight stays
If you plan to stay overnight (recommended for groups to avoid rush), book rooms at the temple’s own guest houses (like the Shri Manjunatha Swamy Guest House) at least 2-3 weeks ahead via phone or the Dharmasthala website. Rooms are basic but clean, and priority is given to senior citizens on request.
Keep footwear with the paid cloakroom
You must remove shoes before entering the inner sanctum. Use the government-run cloakroom near the main gate (small fee per pair) to avoid losing sandals in the crowded shoe racks. Carry a plastic bag to keep your socks clean if you prefer wearing them inside.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Dharmasthala is famous for its free, unlimited annadana (community lunch) served daily from 12 PM to 3 PM. The dining hall is located near the temple, and there is a separate, less crowded section for senior citizens and those with disabilities. Just follow the signs for “Annapoorna Bhojana Mandira” and join the queue; no ticket is needed.
Yes, the temple trust runs several budget and mid-range guesthouses and dormitories within walking distance of the temple. Rooms are simple but clean, with attached bathrooms, and can be booked online or at the temple’s accommodation office. For a more comfortable stay, there are private hotels in Dharmasthala town, about 1-2 km away, which are easier for groups to book in advance.
Yes, the temple complex is mostly flat and wheelchair-friendly, with ramps available at the main entrance and near the sanctum. Wheelchairs can be borrowed free of charge from the temple office, and volunteers are often available to assist elderly visitors. However, during peak festival days, the crowd can make movement slower, so plan for a weekday visit if possible.
There is no strict dress code, but modest attire is appreciated—covering shoulders and knees is recommended. Men often wear dhotis or trousers, and women can wear sarees, salwar kameez, or long skirts. You must remove footwear before entering the inner sanctum, and there are free shoe stands near the entrance.
The temple opens early at 6:30 AM, and the queue is shortest between 6:30 AM and 8:30 AM, especially on weekdays. The noon hours (12 PM to 2 PM) are also relatively quiet as many pilgrims take a lunch break. Avoid the evening aarti (around 7:30 PM) and weekends, as these draw the largest crowds.
Suggested Itineraries
2 Days in Manjunatha Temple
Day 1
Arrive in Dharmasthala in the morning and settle into your accommodation. Spend the first half of the day exploring the serene premises of Manjunatha Temple, including the main shrine, the Sthala Purana (legend) board, and the sacred Netravathi river ghats. In the afternoon, visit the temple’s administrative office to understand the unique tradition of Jain Dharmadhikari managing a Shiva temple, and enjoy the peaceful evening aarti.
- Morning darshan of Lord Manjunatha (Shiva) and seek blessings at the main sanctum
- Walk along the Netravathi river ghats and observe the ritual bathing and small shrines on the banks
- Visit the temple museum (Sri Manjunatha Museum) to see ancient idols, coins, and artefacts related to the temple’s history
- Attend the evening aarti (around 7 PM) and witness the traditional lamp offering
Day 2
Begin the day with an early morning visit to the temple for a quieter darshan, followed by a short walk to the nearby Annappa Swamy shrine and the Bahubali (Gommateshwara) statue, which are part of the same complex. Later, explore the local handicraft and silk weaving centres in Dharmasthala, and end with a relaxed visit to the Netravathi river for a boat ride or riverside picnic. This day focuses on the cultural and spiritual layers beyond the main temple.
- Early morning darshan and circumambulation (pradakshina) of the temple complex
- Visit the 39-foot-tall Bahubali statue and the nearby small shrine of Annappa Swamy, the guardian deity
- Take a short walk to the Dharmasthala Handicraft Centre to see local artisans making wooden toys, brass idols, and traditional Karnataka crafts
- Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the Netravathi river (if available) or relax on the riverbank with views of the temple
- Optional: Visit the Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala Rural Development Project (SKDRDP) office to learn about the temple’s social welfare work, if open to visitors
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