Welcome to Dharmasthala

Dharmasthala is a prominent pilgrimage town located in the Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka, India. It is renowned for its religious significance, cultural heritage, and philanthropic activities. Here are key aspects of Dharmasthala:

Religious Significance:

Manjunatha Temple: The main attraction of Dharmasthala is the Shri Manjunatha Swamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Manjunatha. The temple also houses the deities of Dharma Daivas and Lord Chandranath, reflecting its unique blend of Shaiva and Jain traditions.

Syncretic Traditions: Dharmasthala is notable for its syncretic practices, where a Jain family, the Heggade family, administers a Hindu temple, showcasing religious harmony.

Annual Festivals: The temple hosts several significant festivals, including Laksha Deepotsava, Maha Shivaratri, and Navaratri, attracting devotees from all over the country.

Philanthropic Activities:

Free Meals: The temple serves free meals (annadana) to thousands of devotees daily, continuing the tradition of hospitality and service.

Education and Health: The Dharmasthala Trust runs numerous educational institutions, including schools, colleges, and technical institutes. It also manages healthcare facilities, including a modern hospital, providing free or subsidized medical care.

Rural Development: The Trust engages in various rural development programs, including promoting organic farming, microfinance initiatives, and vocational training for the local population.

Cultural Heritage:

Car Museum: Dharmasthala houses a unique Vintage Car Museum, showcasing a collection of antique and classic cars from different eras.

Manjusha Museum: This museum displays a wide array of artifacts, including ancient manuscripts, paintings, weapons, and religious icons, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Nearby Attractions:

Netravathi River: The Netravathi River flows near Dharmasthala, offering scenic views and a tranquil environment. Pilgrims often take a holy dip in the river before visiting the temple. 

Bahubali Statue: A significant Jain site near Dharmasthala is the 39-foot monolithic statue of Bahubali (Gomateshwara) located on a hillock, symbolizing peace and non-violence.

Kukke Subramanya: Located about 60 kilometers from Dharmasthala, Kukke Subramanya is another famous pilgrimage center dedicated to Lord Subramanya.

Accessibility:

Road Connectivity: Dharmasthala is well-connected by road to major cities in Karnataka. Regular bus services are available from Bangalore, Mangalore, and other nearby towns.

Rail Connectivity: The nearest railway station is in Mangalore, about 75 kilometers away, which is well-connected to major cities in India.

Air Connectivity: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, which is around 80 kilometers from Dharmasthala.

Accommodation:

Pilgrim Accommodations: Dharmasthala offers a range of accommodations for pilgrims, including guest houses, lodges, and dharamshalas managed by the temple trust, providing clean and affordable lodging options.

Private Hotels: There are also several private hotels and resorts catering to the needs of tourists and pilgrims, ensuring a comfortable stay.

Dharmasthala, with its blend of religious significance, cultural richness, and dedication to public service, stands as a unique and revered destination in Karnataka. Whether visiting for spiritual reasons, to appreciate the cultural heritage, or to witness the philanthropic initiatives, Dharmasthala offers a profound and enriching experience