The Dharmasthala Temple, located in the Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka, is one of the most unique and revered temples in India. Dedicated to Lord Manjunatha (Shiva), this temple beautifully combines spirituality, charity, and religious harmony. What makes it stand apart is that it is managed by a Jain family while worship is conducted by Hindu priests, reflecting India’s timeless tradition of inclusiveness. Every year, millions of devotees visit Dharmasthala seeking blessings, inner peace, and a glimpse of the temple’s age-old service-oriented culture.
| Temple Name | Dharmasthala Temple |
| Location | Dakshina Kannada district, Karnataka |
| Presiding Deity | Lord Manjunatha (Shiva in linga form) |
| Other Deities | Goddess Ammanavaru, Lord Chandranath (Jain Tirthankara), Dharma Daivas |
| Unique Feature | Managed by Jain Heggade family, rituals conducted by Hindu priests (symbol of religious harmony) |
| Historical Origin | 800+ years ago, guardian angels of Dharma instructed Pergade family to dedicate their home for dharma |
| Architecture | Traditional South Indian style with stone and wooden carvings; sanctum houses Shiva Linga |
| Special Attractions | 39-ft Bahubali monolithic statue (built 1973) |
| Major Festivals | Lakshadeepotsava (Nov–Dec), Maha Shivaratri, Navratri |
| Philanthropy | Daily Anna Dana (free meals) to 70,000–80,000 people; runs schools, colleges, hospitals, rural development programs under SDM Trust |
| Pilgrimage Rituals | Holy dip in Netravati River, darshan of Lord Manjunatha, organized free meals |
| Best Time to Visit | October – March (especially during Lakshadeepotsava) |
| Temple Timings | Morning: 6:30 AM – 2:00 PM; Evening: 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM |
| How to Reach | By Air: Mangalore (75 km); By Train: Mangalore Junction (70 km); By Road: Well-connected with Mangalore, Bangalore, Udupi |
| Spiritual Significance | Symbol of devotion, charity, and inclusiveness (Shaiva, Vaishnava, Jain traditions united) |
Historical Background
The history of Dharmasthala Temple goes back more than 800 years. Legends narrate that the guardian angels of Dharma appeared to the Jain chieftain Birmanna Pergade and his wife in their dreams, asking them to dedicate their home for the propagation of Dharma. The couple readily agreed, and since then, the temple has stood as a symbol of righteousness, hospitality, and devotion.
Over time, Lord Manjunatha was installed in the temple in a Shiva Linga form, with rituals conducted as per Hindu Agama Shastras. The temple was later developed and expanded under the patronage of various rulers, and it continues to be administered by the Pergade family. Today, the temple is not only a center of worship but also a hub of charitable and educational activities.
Religious and Spiritual Significance
The presiding deity of Dharmasthala Temple is Lord Manjunatha (Shiva), worshiped in the form of a linga. Devotees strongly believe that offering prayers here removes obstacles, grants prosperity, and blesses families with harmony. Alongside Lord Manjunatha, the temple also houses shrines for Lord Chandranath (a Jain Tirthankara), Goddess Ammanavaru, and the Dharma Daivas (protecting deities of Dharma).
The temple is a unique blend of Shaiva, Vaishnava, and Jain traditions, which is why it is regarded as a living example of religious unity. While daily rituals are performed by Hindu priests, the temple’s administration is carried out by the Jain Heggade family, symbolizing coexistence and inclusivity.
Temple Architecture
The Dharmasthala Temple reflects traditional South Indian temple architecture. Built mainly of stone and wood, the temple structure features intricately carved pillars, a sanctum that houses the Shiva Linga, and beautifully designed mantapas. The temple complex also has several subsidiary shrines, guesthouses, and halls to accommodate thousands of devotees.
The nearby Bahubali statue, a 39-foot monolithic structure built in 1973, adds to the spiritual aura of Dharmasthala. It signifies Jain heritage and attracts devotees from all over the world.
Festivals and Celebrations
The temple witnesses several grand celebrations throughout the year, the most important being the Lakshadeepotsava Festival, held in November–December. During this festival, thousands of lamps are lit, illuminating the temple and creating a divine atmosphere. Cultural programs, spiritual discourses, and charitable activities mark this occasion.
Other major events include Shivaratri, when special rituals are performed for Lord Manjunatha, and Navratri, when Goddess Ammanavaru is worshiped with great devotion.
Philanthropic and Social Initiatives
One of the most remarkable aspects of Dharmasthala Temple is its dedication to charity and social service. The temple provides free meals (Anna Dana) daily to thousands of devotees, a tradition that has continued for centuries. It is said that around 70,000–80,000 people are served wholesome vegetarian meals every day.
Under the leadership of the Dharmadhikari (the head of the Pergade family), the temple runs numerous initiatives in the fields of education, healthcare, rural development, and social welfare. The Sri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara (SDM) institutions, including schools, colleges, hospitals, and cultural centers, are well-known across Karnataka. This selfless service is what truly sets Dharmasthala apart as a place where spirituality meets humanity.
Pilgrimage Experience
A visit to Dharmasthala is a serene and enriching experience. The temple is surrounded by scenic hills and greenery, offering a peaceful environment for meditation and devotion. Devotees usually take a holy dip in the Netravati River, believed to purify the soul, before entering the temple for darshan.
Inside the temple, the sight of the Shiva Linga of Lord Manjunatha instills a deep sense of devotion. The orderly management of queues, the cleanliness of the temple complex, and the warm hospitality make the pilgrimage even more memorable.
Best Time to Visit
The temple is open throughout the year, but the best time to visit is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and major festivals are celebrated. Pilgrims who wish to witness the grandeur of Lakshadeepotsava should plan their trip in November or December.
Darshan Timings
The temple remains open from early morning until late evening. Devotees can attend the daily poojas, abhishekams, and special rituals. Below is the general timing schedule:
| Day | Temple Timings |
|---|---|
| Monday to Sunday | 6:30 AM – 2:00 PM |
| Monday to Sunday | 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM |
How to Reach Dharmasthala
- By Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, located about 75 km away.
- By Train: The closest railway station is Mangalore Junction, around 70 km from the temple.
- By Road: Dharmasthala is well-connected by road, with regular buses and taxis from Mangalore, Bangalore, and Udupi.
