This revered temple, the Kollur Mookambika Temple, located in Karnataka's Udupi district, is a significant Shakti Peetha established by Adi Shankaracharya. It's a sacred site where Devi Mookambika, an embodiment of Adi Shakti, is worshipped. Legend says she vanquished the demon Mookasura here, solidifying the importance of this temple.
The Unique Lingam and Adi Shankara's Legacy at the Mookambika Temple
At the Mookambika Temple, Mookambika's Swayambhoo Lingam is unique, integrating MahaKali, MahaLaxmi, and MahaSaraswati on the left, and Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva on the right, divided by a golden line. Adi Shankara's Sri Chakra Yantra, installed here at the Mookambika Temple, continues to be central to the temple's rituals, following the Vijayagama system he established.
Daily Rituals and Devotee Experience at Kollur Mookambika Temple
At the Kollur Mookambika Temple, Nirmalya Pooja at 5:00 AM offers devotees a glimpse of the Swayambhoo Lingam. Trikala Pooja is performed daily, attracting thousands seeking solace and blessings. Tuesdays, Fridays, Shravana month, and Phalguna's Moola Nakshatra (Devi's birthday) draw large crowds, including celebrities and industrialists to the Kollur Mookambika Temple. The Navratri festival is particularly significant at this temple.
The Kollur Mookambika Temple is a major pilgrimage center, drawing devotees from across India, especially Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. It also supports local education through schools and colleges, and provides lodging for visitors near the temple.
History and Mythological Significance of the Mookambika Temple
The temple's origins at the Mookambika Temple are linked to Adi Shankara's intense worship of Goddess Saraswati, who agreed to accompany him to Kerala with a condition: he shouldn't look back. When he did, she stopped and remained in Kollur, at the present temple location. Through his continued prayers, she agreed to visit Chottanikkara Temple in the mornings and return to Kollur by noon, to the Mookambika Temple.
Kodachadri Hill, with its Chitramoolam and Ambavanam, is believed to be where Adi Shankara meditated, near the Kollur Mookambika Temple. The temple, patronized by ancient kings, holds valuable treasures reflecting its rich history. It served as the state temple for Nagara and Vijayanagara rulers, and faced plundering during Mahratta raids.
Plan Your Visit to the Kollur Mookambika Temple
Best Time to Visit the Temple
August to October offers pleasant weather (24-29°C), ideal for visiting the temple. Summers (March-May) are hotter (32-34°C).
How to Reach the Kollur Mookambika Temple
By Air
Mangalore International Airport (150 km) is the nearest airport, with taxis available to reach the temple.
By Rail
Bijoor (20 km) and Kundapur (40 km) are the closest railway stations, with taxi services to the Kollur Mookambika Temple.
By Road
The Kollur Mookambika Temple is well-connected by road from major cities like Shimoga, Mangalore, and Bangalore. Direct buses are available to the temple.
