Idagunji, a small town in Honnavar Taluk is famous for its Ganapathi Temple. It is an ancient temple, with a history dating back 1500 years. This temple is very famous and receives around one million pilgrims every year. The Ganapathi idol in this temple is a tall standing figure with two hands. One hand is holding a Modaka while the other hand is holding a Padma (Lotus).
Among the temples on Murudeshwar-Gokarna route, this Ganesha temple is certainly a must-visit. Idagunji Temple has great mythological significance and over 1 million devotees visit the shrine every year. The legend dates back to the end of ‘dwapara-yuga’ and the beginning of ‘kali-yuga’. A group of sages led by Valakhilya tried to perform certain rituals but were unable to do so due to the transition period. Sage Narada sought blessings of Lord Ganesha, also known as the remover of all obstacles. Ganesha descended on this spot located close to the Sharavathi River and ensured that there would be no obstruction. In order to shower offerings on Lord Ganesha, there were many ponds and lakes created by gods and sages. The temple was also built to express their gratitude for his blessing.
It is believed that the temple was constructed around the 4th-5th century. Lord Ganesh is seen in dvibhuja style, where he is standing on a slab of stone and holding a lotus bud and a modak. Though the temple may have many visitors, the temple has maintained a simple yet elegant appearance. Leaving apart mythology and legends, this place is best to experience peace and tranquillity. It is believed that if devotees along with their family visit six temples (Kasargod, Mangalore, Anegudde, Kundapura, Idagunji and Gokarna) within one day between sunrise and sunset, then they will receive special blessings from Lord Ganesha.
Shri Ganapathi Temple, Idagunji – Mythology
Towards the end of the Dwapara Yuga, anticipating that Shri Krishna was about to leave for Vaikunta and fearing the advent of Kali Yuga once he departed, many sages led by Sage Valakilya were performing penances. But their penances were hindered in various ways. So they prayed to Lord Krishna, who sent Maharishi Narada to help them.
Narada came to the Rishis and told them to pray to Lord Vigneswaraya (Ganapathi) who is the remover of all obstacles. The Rishis asked Narada where they should perform the Puja to propitiate Shri Ganapathi. Maharishi Narada led them to the banks of the River Sharavathi. Here, he pointed out a place called Kunjaranya. Maharishi Narada told the Rishis that in a previous age, the Holy Trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva had come here to stop the destruction wreaked by the Asuras on Earth. They had created the Chakrathirtha and Brahma Tirtha lakes.
Maharishi Narada and the other Rishis created a new lake called Devathirtha here. Then Narada brought Shri Ganapathi along with all the other Gods and the Trinity here. Ritual rites were performed and hymns were chanted in praise of Shri Ganapathi. Pleased with his devotees, Lord Ganapathi agreed to stay in this place to help the Rishis conduct their penances without any hindrance. Another lake called Ganesha Tirtha was formed here to bring water to the temple. This place eventually came to be known as Idagunji.
Idagunji Ganapathi Temple history
There is a place here named Kunjaranya, as it is said, Lord Ganesha stayed here for some time. It is a penance which is said to be selected by the ancient rishis of that time. The place Idagunji gathered importance due to this lovely temple and its mention in the Skanda Purana. Located towards the bank of Sharavathi River, this temple is a pilgrimage centre for the Dakshina Kannada. It tends to attract a large number of devotees of around 1 million per year.
The amazing sculpture to the two shouldered Ganesha known as Dwibhuja is the chief attraction here. The standing posture of Ganesha actually occupies the space in the sanctum. It is one of the most prominent idols on the west coast.
Idagunji Ganapati temple timings
Idagunji Ganapati temple is open for the devotees from 6 am to 1 pm and 3 pm to 8:30 pm. Visiting around 7 am to 11 am can witness the Abhisheka- the holy bath to the Lord Ganesha.
Panchakhadya, the Prasadam is a special offering that is to the Lord Ganesha.
The statue of the Lord Ganesha is seen in a standing posture in Idagunji Ganapati temple. The major festivals of Vinayaka Chathurthi are one of the major festivals celebrated here. Reaching to this place by mode of transport like from Manki or Honavar is regular.
Idagunji Ganapati temple as the listed place in MURUDESHWAR TOUR PACKAGE cannot be missed. Packing facilities are available with the temple complex to avoid congestion.
How to reach Idagunji temple?
By Air: The nearest airport is at Mangalore which is 175 Km away
By Train: The nearest railway station is at Honnavar which is 21 Km away. Murudeshwar Railway station is 16 Km away.
By Road: The direct bus is available from Honnavar and Murudeshwar to the temple.
