Bhadrakali Temple Gokarna

The Bhadrakali temple was built in honor of Goddess Uma who turned into Mother Kali. Her incarnation as the fierce and brutal is worshipped here with much devotion because she is considered as the protector of the silent town of Gokarna. The presence of the Bhadrakali temple is considered to be a significant part of the town primarily because of the various tales attached to the formation of the temple. It is surely one of the strongest identities of Gokarna. 

The temple is a part of the MAHABALESHWAR complex and is located about 1 km away from Gokarna. Over the years Bhadrakali Temple has gained the position of a temple where people plan and go because people believe that mother Kali listens to all. The temple is a humble built structure and its entrance has 2 ferocious lions and two warriors on either side of the main gate. The statue of the Goddess depicts Kali in a livid mode with huge eyes staring out in anger and with weapons in one hand. Mythological beliefs point out that the main reason for the existence of the temple was because Goddess Uma was discarded by Ravana and Lord Vishnu instructed her to remain indoors. This later took the form of a temple. 

The commercial town centre and the popular Shree Narayana temple are located within the vicinity of the temple. Friday, as we all know, is the day of all Goddesses and this day holds special importance here. Devotees from all over the world come here to pay respects, offer flowers and Prasad along with doing puja for their overall well-being. The temple has an imposing presence and due to the tales attached to the presence of the temple, it has been an important place of worship. 

The Bhadrakali temple is located only a km away from the bus stand. From the bus stand, you can take an auto which will take close to 5 minutes to reach the place. 

 

BEST TIME TO VISIT BHADRAKALI TEMPLE, GOKARNA

The temple can be visited throughout the year. Although, you can visit in the months between October and March for the best experience. In the monsoon season, the rain is excessive in Karnataka which might make it a tad inconvenient to visit the temple due to heavy rains, yet even in this season, several devotees come here.

 

DESCRIPTION

When the all-powerful demon called Vetrasur conquered the three lokas, the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva devised a strategy to defeat him. They created a feminine warrior called Durge. Various gods gifted her with special powers to fight Vetrasur. After she conquered the demon, Lord Shiva re-christened her as Bhadrakali and sent her to Gokarna as a protector of the town.

This temple dedicated to the Goddess Uma, is a popular religious site in Gokarna. The legends state that the Goddess was requested by Lord Cishnuto to reside in this temple after she was abandoned by Ravana.

At the gate of the temple, statues of two lions and two warriors depict the power of goddess Bhadrakali. The statue of the goddess is seen in her ferocious avatar with big eyes, teeth and four hands holding weapons. This temple of Bhadrakali stands tall at the entrance of Gokarna, within walking distance from the town centre and opposite Shree Shankara Narayana Temple. For devotees of Shakti, Fridays are special as many offer prayers and hence this temple of Goddess Kali may be relatively busier on this day of the week. On a ride out from Gokarna's main bus terminal to Om beach, you could stop over to visit this imposing temple to your right.

 

THINGS TO DO NEAR BHADRAKALI TEMPLE, GOKARNA

1. Learn how to surf at Cocopelli Surf School for an offbeat experience. The surf school was opened by Sandeep Samuel in the year 2011 and is the only surfing spot here. The classes are scheduled according to the level of surfers. A practical hands-on experience-based training is provided by letting the beginners surf safer beaches. The surfing lesson includes induction on the techniques of swimming along with safety equipment and tips that are required to do the activity with finesse.
2. Go trekking at the Om Beach after your visit to the temple. The quaint little beach is famous for its relaxing spots but it is also famous to take a long trek. You can experience the beauty and sanctity of the town by engaging in an interesting trek experience. 
3. Sail your way from the Om Beach.  The beach is synonymous with several adventure activities like parasailing. If you want a bird’s eye view of Gokarna then you will love parasailing here.
4. Trip to the Murudeshwar beach: Murudeshwar beach is a less crowded beach that is a heaven for both adventure lovers and for those who love to relax and take it easy. For those who seek a different experience then coming here is a must.

 

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION ABOUT BHADRAKALI TEMPLE, GOKARNA

Location: The temple is located in the prime area of Gokarna very close to the town center and right opposite the Shree Narayana temple. The complete address is Main Road, Gokarna.

Entry: Entry to the temple is free. If you want to perform special Pooja then the cost will be according to the puja ceremony performed.

Timing: The temple opens at 5.00 AM and is shut at noon. It opens again at 4.00 AM and is open till 4.00 PM

Distance from Gokarna city center: The temple is not far from the city center and is located at an estimated distance of 2 km from the same.