Located in the quiet and beautiful town of Kollur, Karnataka, India, the Kollur Mookambika Temple is deeply revered by both pilgrims and devotees. This ancient temple attracts visitors from far and wide because of its rich history, spiritual significance, and stunning architecture. It is dedicated to Goddess Mookambika, an avatar of Adi Parashakti.
Mookambika, represented by a Linga with “Maha Kali, Maha Lakshmi, and Maha Saraswathi” integrated on its left side, is the harmonious union of Adipara Shakthi and Parabramha. Sacred land between Gokarna and Kanyakumari, thought to have been created by the sage Parashurama, is home to the temple, which is located on the southern bank of the Souparnika River at the foothills of the Kodachadri hills.
Kollur Mookambika Temple timings, Location, official website, online booking
| Affiliation | Hinduism |
| District | Udupi |
| State | Karnataka |
| Country |  India |
| Location | Byndoor |
| Deity | Mookambika |
| Festivals | Rathotsava, Navaratri, Vijaya Dashami |
| Official website | Update Soon |
| Location | Google Map |
| Temple timings | Kollur Mookambika Temple is open from 5 AM till 9 PM. Darshan is permitted throughout the day, with the exception of short intervals when specific rituals or decorations are being conducted. |
| Nearest Railway Station | Mookambika Road (Byndoor railway station) |
| Nearest Airport | Mangaluru International Airport |
The mookambika temple’s origins can be traced back to mythology, where it is believed that the goddess Mookambika appeared to the great sage Adi Shankaracharya. Legend has it that the sage, an ardent devotee of the Goddess, was drawn to the divine presence in Kollur, where he performed rigorous penance. Pleased with his devotion, Mookambika appeared before him and granted his wishes. In gratitude, Adi Shankaracharya installed the deity in the temple, marking the beginning of the sacred site.
The Sri Mookambika Temple is an architectural marvel that embodies the Dravidian style, which is distinguished by elaborate carvings, imposing gopurams (entrance towers), and a calm ambiance. The idol of Goddess Mookambika, adorned with jewels and colourful silk garments, is kept in the main sanctum sanctorum. Believers in the Goddess think she has special abilities to grant their wishes and blessings for general well-being.
One of the distinctive features of the temple is the Jnana Peetha, a sacred platform believed to be the spot where Adi Shankaracharya meditated and attained enlightenment. Pilgrims often seek blessings and wisdom at this revered site, considering it a source of divine knowledge and spiritual awakening.
The annual festival of Navaratri is celebrated with great fervour at the Kollur Mookambika Temple. During this auspicious time, the temple premises come alive with vibrant decorations, cultural performances, and religious rituals. Devotees from various parts of the country participate in the festivities, offering prayers to Goddess Mookambika and seeking her divine grace.
Apart from its religious significance, Kollur itself is a charming town surrounded by lush greenery and hills, providing a tranquil setting for spiritual contemplation. The Souparnika River, flowing near the temple, adds to the natural beauty of the area, creating a serene environment that complements the spiritual aura of the temple.
Pilgrims visiting the Kollur Mookambika Temple often engage in rituals such as lighting lamps, performing poojas, and circumambulating the sanctum sanctorum. The temple also attracts scholars and seekers of knowledge due to its association with Adi Shankaracharya and the Jnana Peetha.
A distinctive golden line divides the main deity of the temple, a jyotirlinga known as a swayambhu, or self-born, into two parts. The left half represents the Tridevis, and the right half is the Trimurtis. The sanctum is also embellished with a four-handed panchaloha idol of Goddess Mookambika.
Mookambika Temple Kollur Varshika Uthsavam, Annual Festival, 10 Days celebrations Details
- First Day : Flag Hoisting and Grama Pradhakshina
The festival begins with the hoisting of the flag, followed by Grama Pradhakshina, a village procession.
- Second Day: Devi’s Journey to Saraswathi Mandapam
On the second day, the goddess is taken around the village and then processed to the Saraswathi Mandapam on a peacock chariot.
- Third Day: Katte Utsava and Dolarohanotsava
The third day features the Katte Utsava, followed by Dolarohanotsava, a ritual at the north Saraswathi Mandapam and ashtavadhana seva is performed.
- Fourth Day: Katte Pooja and Pushparatham Chariot Procession
The festivities commence with the Katte Pooja conducted at the Sri GopalaKrishna temple. Following this, the night ritual unfolds as Sri Mookambika is carried on the Pushparatham chariot to the Saraswathi Mandapam on the west side, where the Ashtavadhana Pooja takes place.
- Fifth Day: Rishaba Vahana Procession
During the ritual, Sri Mookambika is carried on the Rishaba Vahana to the Saraswathi Mandapam in the west, where Ashtavadhana Seva is conducted for the devotees. In the daytime, the goddess is part of a procession to the Gopalakrishna temple.
- Sixth Day: Procession to Patelara Katte and Gaja Vahana Ritual
During the day, the procession to Patelara Katte at Balegadde starts, and in the evening, the Saraswathi Mandapam in the west receives Kollur Devi’s carrying on the Gaja Vahana.
- Seventh Day: Pradosha Pooja and Simma Vahana Procession
After the Pradosha Pooja and the Rangapooja, the programme starts with bringing Kollur Mookambika Devi to the Saraswathi Mandapam on the west side. As part of the night ritual, the Mookambika is brought to the Saraswathi Mandapam in the west for pooja and Ashtavadhana Seva on the Simma Vahana once more.
- Eighth Day: Brahma Rathothsava and Evening Procession
At 11:40 in the morning, the rituals of Kshiprabail, Rathsbali, and Brahma Ratha Arohanam are performed. In the evening, the procession begins with the Brahma Ratham being taken to the Saraswathi Mandapam at around 5 o’clock on the west side.
- Nineth Day: Choornothsavam and Theppothsavam
The ninth day comprises Choornothsavam, okuli, Avabhrutha Snanam at the Sauparnika, Theppothsavam, and Miruga Bette.
- Tenth Day: Poornahuthi and Dwajavarohana
The tenth day begins with Poornahuthi, followed by the lowering of the flag (Dwajavarohana), Poornakumbhabhishekam, and Ankura Prasada Distribution.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How to reach Kollur Mookambika Temple?
Bengaluru is located 430 kilometres away, while Mangaluru is located 130 kilometres away from Kollur. The closest train station is Mookambika Road railway station in Baindur, which is about 30 kilometres from Kollur, and the closest airport is in Mangaluru. Kollur and Mangaluru city are connected by regular private bus services. To get to Kollur, taxis can be reserved from adjacent towns like Kundapura (36 kilometres).
- How to reach Mookambika Temple by train?
To reach Mookambika Temple by train, the nearest railway station is Mookambika Road railway station in Baindur, situated approximately 30 kilometers from Kollur. Additionally, Kundapura railway station is another option, located around 39 kilometers from Mookambika Temple. At either of these stations, passengers can get off and utilise local conveyance, like buses or taxis, to go to the temple’s location.
- How to reach Mookambika Temple from Ernakulam by train?
To reach Mookambika Temple from Ernakulam by train, one can board a train to Mookambika Road railway station in Baindur and then proceed to the temple by road using buses or taxis.
- How to go to Mookambika Temple from Trivandrum?
Travelers from Trivandrum can reach Mookambika Temple by train to Mookambika Road railway station in Baindur and then continue the journey by road using buses or taxis.
- How to reach Mookambika Temple from Kerala?
Mookambika Temple can be reached from Kerala by road, with buses and private vehicles being the primary modes of transportation.
- How to reach Kudajadri from Mookambika Temple?
Kudajadri, the picturesque hill associated with Mookambika Temple, can be reached from Mookambika Temple by road. You can take a Jeep ride from Kollur to Kodachadri to get to Kudajadri from Mookambika Temple.
- How to reach Mookambika Temple from Byndoor Railway Station?
Travelers arriving at Byndoor Railway Station can reach Mookambika Temple by hiring local transportation like buses or taxis, covering the relatively short distance between Byndoor and Kollur.
- How to reach Mookambika Temple from Calicut by train?
To reach Mookambika Temple from Calicut by train, one can board a train to Mookambika Road railway station in Baindur or Manglore Railway Station and then proceed to the temple by road using buses or taxis.
- How to reach Mookambika Temple from Chennai?
Travelers from Chennai can reach Mookambika Temple by taking a train to Mookambika Road railway station in Baindur, which is approximately 30 kilometers from Kollur. Another railway station option is Kundapur Railway Station, situated about 39 kilometers away and then continuing the journey by road using buses or taxis.
- How to reach Mookambika Temple from Mangalore?
Mookambika Temple is accessible from Mangalore by road. Travelers can use buses, taxis, or private vehicles to cover the distance between Mangalore and Kollur.
- How to reach Mookambika Temple from Mumbai?
To reach Mookambika Temple from Mumbai, you can take a train to the Mookambika Road railway station in Baindur, which is approximately 30 kilometers from Kollur. Another railway station option is Kundapur Railway Station, situated about 39 kilometers away. The nearest airport is in Mangaluru. Regular private bus services connect Kollur to Mangaluru city, providing convenient transportation options for travelers.
- Can we wear churidar in mookambika temple?
Yes, you can wear churidar at Mookambika Temple.
- How many kilometers from mookambika to murudeshwar?
The distance from Mookambika to Murudeshwar is approximately 60 kilometers, and the route can be covered by taking NH 766C and NH 66.
- How much is a taxi from Kollur Mookambika Temple to Murudeshwar?
The taxi fare from Kollur to Murudeshwar is approximately ₹1500-1800 for a sedan car such as Etios or Dzire, and around ₹1700-2500 for an SUV.
- Who built kollur mookambika temple?
The Kollur Mookambika Temple was not specifically constructed by a single individual. Its construction and historical development are deeply rooted in mythology and legends. According to tradition, Adi Shankaracharya, a revered Hindu philosopher and saint, is believed to have installed the deity of Goddess Mookambika in the temple. The temple’s origins are intricately tied to mythological narratives rather than being attributed to a specific builder or architect in historical records.
- Are mobiles allowed in kollur mookambika temple?
Yes, mobile phones are allowed in Kollur Mookambika Temple, but visitors are requested to adhere to the temple rules and regulations.
- Can i enter with pant in mookambika?
Yes, you can enter Mookambika Temple wearing pants.
