Anantheshwara Temple, located in the heart of Udupi, Karnataka, is one of the region’s oldest and most sacred Shiva temples. Believed to be over 1,200 years old, this temple is dedicated to Lord Anantheshwara (a form of Shiva) and holds deep spiritual significance in Tuluva culture.

Anantheshwara Temple's  unique feature is its Nandi (bull) statue facing away from the sanctum, unlike traditional Shiva temples. It is also closely linked to Udupi’s Sri Krishna Temple, as Saint Madhvacharya performed rituals here before establishing the Krishna shrine. You can read : One Day Udupi Local Sightseeing Trip By Cab

How to Reach Anantheshwara Temple

• By Air: Nearest airport – Mangalore International Airport (60 km, 1.5-hour drive).

• By Train: Udupi Railway Station (2 km, 10-minute drive/auto-rickshaw).

• By Road:

  • From Malpe Beach: 10 km, 20-minute drive.

  • From Manipal: 5 km, 15-minute drive.

Importance of Anantheshwara Temple

• Historical Legacy: Predates the famous Udupi Krishna Temple.

• Cultural Link: Associated with Madhvacharya’s Dvaita philosophy.

• Architectural Style: Classic Kerala-style temple with wooden carvings.

Things to Do at Anantheshwara Temple

✅ Offer prayers to the swayambhu (self-manifested) Shiva lingam.
✅ Observe the rare Nandi statue facing away from the deity.
✅ Attend Maha Shivaratri celebrations (grand processions).
✅ Explore the temple’s ancient stone inscriptions.
✅ Taste prasadam (temple offerings) like coconut and bananas.

Nearest Tourist Places

📍 Udupi Sri Krishna Temple (500 m) – Iconic Krishna shrine.
📍 Malpe Beach (6 km) – Scenic coastline.
📍 St. Mary’s Island (10 km) – Volcanic rock formations.
📍 Kaup Lighthouse (20 km) – Historic coastal tower.

Significance

• Spiritual Hub: Key site for Shaivite worship in Tulu Nadu.

• Mythological Connection: Linked to the legend of Parashurama.

• Tourist Attraction: Less crowded, offering a peaceful vibe.

FAQs

Q1. Is there an entry fee?
✔ No, free for all devotees.

Q2. Dress code?
✔ Traditional attire preferred (dhoti/saree).

Q3. Photography allowed?
✔ No inside sanctum; permitted in outer areas.

Q4. Best time to visit?
✔ Early morning (6–8 AM) for serene darshan.

Q5. Festivals celebrated here?
✔ Maha Shivaratri, Kartik Purnima, and Karthika Deepotsava.

Travel Tip: Combine your visit with Udupi Krishna Temple for a spiritual day out! 🕉️✨

Step into Ancient Devotion!