Shree Chandika Durgaaparameshwari Temple Kumbhashi
🖼️ Photo Gallery
🛕 Temple Info
Nestled along the scenic coastal highway in Kumbhashi, near Kundapura in Udupi district, the Sri Chandika Durgaparameshwari Temple stands as a beacon of divine grace and architectural splendor. This serene sanctuary dedicated to Goddess Chandika Durgaparameshwari, a fierce yet compassionate form of Adi Shakti, radiates powerful spiritual energy that draws devotees seeking strength, protection, and inner peace. As you approach, the towering white gopuram with golden accents catches the eye from afar, glowing beautifully especially at night when illuminated, creating an ethereal golden aura.
Stepping inside, the temple reveals its true magic through exquisite wooden architecture. Intricate carvings adorn the pillars, walls, and ceiling, crafted with remarkable detail that blends traditional craftsmanship with modern precision. The sanctum sanctorum, built in stone, houses the majestic panchaloha idol of the Goddess seated on a lion, holding a trishul and chakra, with hands in abhaya and varada mudras, exuding maternal compassion and invincible power. Sub-shrines for Lord Mahaganapathi, Srinivasa, and serpent deities add to the sacred ambiance. The premises are impeccably maintained—spotlessly clean, with spacious lawns, a serene pushkarini pond reflecting the temple's beauty, and a large covered hall for gatherings. Ample parking and clean facilities make it welcoming for families and pilgrims. The atmosphere is one of profound tranquility, filled with the fragrance of incense, devotional chants, and a palpable divine vibration that leaves visitors feeling renewed and blessed.
💫 Importance
The Sri Chandika Durgaparameshwari Temple holds profound spiritual significance as a sacred abode where devotees experience the protective and empowering embrace of the Divine Mother. Goddess Chandika, embodying the unified energies of Mahakali, Mahalaxmi, and Mahasaraswati, is revered for removing obstacles, dispelling fears, and bestowing prosperity, health, and harmony. Many visitors report feeling an overwhelming sense of positivity and clarity upon darshan, with prayers here believed to invoke swift divine intervention in times of challenge.
During festivals like Navaratri, the temple comes alive with grandeur—Chandika homas, special alankaras, and annadana (free meals) draw large crowds, fostering community devotion and cultural preservation. The temple's location in Kumbhashi, known as Dakshina Kashi for its ancient spiritual aura, enhances its role as a pilgrimage stop, offering a complete spiritual journey alongside nearby sacred sites. It serves not just as a place of worship but as a sanctuary for meditation, reflection, and surrender to the Mother's grace, leaving every soul uplifted with renewed faith and strength.
📜 History
The origins of this magnificent temple trace back to a divine calling experienced by industrialist Sri Devaraya M. Seregar and his wife Smt. Anitha, devoted followers from the Ramakshatriya community. After succeeding in Mumbai and returning to their roots, Sri Devaraya purchased land in Kumbhashi for a home. Remarkably, the Goddess appeared in his dreams, revealing that the land belonged to Her and urging him to build a temple.
Guided by an Ashtamangala Prashna conducted under a renowned astrologer, it was divinely revealed that three powerful Shakti forms—his family deity Sri Kalika Parameshwari, Sri Chamundeshwari who accompanied him, and Sri Durga from a previous Brahmin family's worship—needed to converge here, along with Lord Mahaganapathi and Venkatramana. The land's connection to ancient spiritual forces, including proximity to Hoovinakere Vadiraja Mutt, further affirmed this sacred destiny.
Over several years, with masterful craftsmanship involving around 40 artists, the temple was constructed blending stone, wood, and gold plating. Consecrated in 2018 with elaborate rituals, it swiftly became a cherished spiritual gem, realizing the family's devout vision for global welfare through the Mother's blessings.
🪔 Pooja Timings
The temple follows a disciplined schedule for darshan and rituals, ensuring the divine energy is continually nurtured and shared with devotees.
- Morning Darshan & Puja: 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM
- Evening Darshan & Puja: 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM
The temple is known for its systematically performed, heartfelt rituals. The evening Maha Mangalarati (around 7:30 PM) is a particularly powerful and mesmerizing experience. On Fridays, a delicious and sanctified Anna Prasadam (community lunch) is served to all devotees.
🚌 Transport Options
By Air: The nearest major airport is Mangalore International Airport (IXE), approximately 110 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Kundapura/Kumbhashi.
By Rail: The closest railway station is Kundapura Railway Station, situated about 10-12 km from the temple. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available for the short onward journey.
By Road: This is the most convenient mode. The temple is located right on National Highway 66 (NH-66), the bustling Mangalore-Mumbai (formerly Mangalore-Goa) highway. It is unmistakable, between Kundapura and Udupi, and just 1 km before the famous Anegudde Vinayaka Temple at Kumbhashi. Ample free parking space is available within the premises for cars and buses.
🏙️ Nearby Cities
- Udupi: 20 km
- Kundapura: 10 km
- Manipal: 25 km
- Murudeshwar: 75 km
- Mangalore: 100 km
MytempleMypride Reflection
In the serene embrace of Sri Chandika Durgaparameshwari Temple, one discovers the timeless power of faith and devotion. This divine sanctuary, born from a dream and crafted with love, reminds us that true pride lies in preserving our sacred heritage while welcoming all seekers of peace. May the Mother's blessings guide every visitor toward strength, serenity, and spiritual awakening—Jai Mata Di!