Located in the serene village of Dharmasthala in Karnataka, Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala Manjunatha Swamy Temple is one of South India’s most spiritually vibrant and culturally rich pilgrimage sites. Dedicated to Lord Manjunatha (a form of Shiva), this ancient temple attracts thousands of devotees every day who come to seek blessings and experience the divine energy of the place.
With a history dating back over 800 years, Dharmasthala Temple is also known for its charitable contributions, inclusive beliefs, and unique administration, managed by the Heggade family, who are Jain by faith but serve this prominent Hindu temple. If you’re planning a visit, here’s everything you need to know—from Dharmasthala Temple opening hours to VIP darshan, puja timings, and contact details.
Dharmasthala Temple Daily Darshan & Opening Hours
The temple follows a structured routine with specific darshan slots in the morning, afternoon, and evening. During festivals or special occasions, timings may vary slightly.
Here’s a detailed look at the daily darshan schedule:
| Day | Morning Darshan | Afternoon Break | Evening Darshan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday to Sunday | 6:30 AM – 11:00 AM | 12:15 PM – 2:30 PM | 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM |
The temple is closed between 2:30 PM and 5:00 PM every day for cleaning and ritual preparations.
Dharmasthala Temple Darshan and Puja Timings
Dharmasthala Temple, located in the peaceful village of Dharmasthala in Karnataka, is a famous pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva, also worshipped here as Sri Manjunatha Swamy. This sacred place not only attracts devotees from all over India but also from abroad. The temple is beautifully built in a mix of Dravidian, Hoysala, and Vijayanagara architectural styles, adding to its charm and spiritual vibe.
The daily management and temple activities are looked after by the Heggade family, who have been taking care of this temple for generations. Along with Lord Shiva, devotees also offer prayers to Goddess Ammanavaru and Lord Chandranath Swamy, among others.
For the convenience of visitors, the temple has its own official website shridharmasthala.org, where you can book online darshan tickets, including VIP passes. You can also access various services and information about rituals and offerings.
If you’re planning to visit the temple, it’s important to know the correct timings for darshan, aarti, and pooja. The schedule given below is sourced from the temple’s official website and is followed strictly every day.
Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala Manjunatha Swamy Temple Daily Timings
| Day | Morning Timings | Afternoon Timings | Evening Timings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 6:30 AM – 11:00 AM | 12:15 PM – 2:30 PM | 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 6:30 AM – 11:00 AM | 12:15 PM – 2:30 PM | 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 6:30 AM – 11:00 AM | 12:15 PM – 2:30 PM | 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM |
| Thursday | 6:30 AM – 11:00 AM | 12:15 PM – 2:30 PM | 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM |
| Friday | 6:30 AM – 11:00 AM | 12:15 PM – 2:30 PM | 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM |
| Saturday | 6:30 AM – 11:00 AM | 12:15 PM – 2:30 PM | 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM |
| Sunday | 6:30 AM – 11:00 AM | 12:15 PM – 2:30 PM | 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM |
Dharmasthala Temple Puja and Aarti Schedule
Here’s the complete list of daily Poojas, Sevas, and Darshan timings offered at the temple. This helps devotees plan their visit and attend rituals on time.
| Puja / Seva Name | Timings |
|---|---|
| Sarva Darshan (Morning) | 6:30 AM – 11:00 AM |
| Shatharudra Abhishekam | 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM |
| Shiva Sahasranamavali Namarchana | 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM |
| Maha Naivedya Samarpana | 11:30 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Maha Pooja | 12:00 PM – 12:15 PM |
| Nithyabali (Midday) | 12:10 PM |
| Sarva Darshan (Afternoon) | 12:15 PM – 2:30 PM |
| Temple Closed | 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM |
| Temple Reopens | 5:00 PM |
| Sarva Darshan (Evening) | 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM |
| Maha Pooja (Night) | 8:30 PM – 8:45 PM |
| Nithyabali (Night) | 8:45 PM |
| Temple Closing Time | 9:30 PM |
This guide will help you get the most out of your visit to Sri Dharmasthala Manjunatha Swamy Temple. Make sure to follow the official timings and respect the temple traditions during your darshan and participation in rituals.
For the latest updates and to book your tickets online, visit the temple’s official site: shridharmasthala.org.
Daily Puja Timings and Darshan Routine at Dharmasthala Temple
Dharmasthala Temple, located in the peaceful village of Dharmasthala in Karnataka, is one of the most visited temples in South India. This sacred temple is dedicated to Lord Manjunatha, a form of Lord Shiva. The temple is beautifully maintained by the Heggade family, who are known for their commitment to religious service and hospitality towards devotees.
Every day, thousands of pilgrims visit this holy place to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and participate in the temple’s rituals. The temple follows a fixed daily schedule for pujas (prayers) and darshan (viewing of the deity), allowing visitors to plan their trip accordingly.
Here, we’ve shared the detailed timetable of daily activities at the temple. These timings are taken from the official source and are helpful for those planning to attend the morning or evening rituals.
Dharmasthala Temple Daily Schedule
| Activity/Event Name | Timing |
|---|---|
| Morning Darshan Begins | 6:30 AM to 11:00 AM |
| Shatharudra Abhisheka & Pooja | 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM |
| Shiva Sahasranamavali Chanting | Around 11:00 AM |
| Maha Naivedya Offering | Around 11:30 AM |
| Maha Pooja (Main Worship) | Starts at 12:00 PM |
| Midday Nithyabali Ritual | Around 12:10 PM |
| Afternoon Darshan | 12:15 PM to 2:30 PM |
| Temple Closed (Break Time) | 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM |
| Evening Darshan | 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM |
| Evening Maha Pooja | Starts at 8:30 PM |
| Night Nithyabali | Around 8:45 PM |
Visitors are encouraged to reach early, especially during weekends or festival days, as the temple experiences a high number of visitors. Whether you are going for a simple darshan or wish to attend specific rituals like the Shatharudra Abhisheka or Maha Pooja, following this routine will help you have a smoother and more spiritual experience.
For updated timings, bookings for special pujas, or VIP darshan, you can visit the official temple website of Sri Dharmasthala Manjunatha Swamy Temple. Planning your visit as per this routine not only helps in time management but also allows you to witness the divine traditions carried out with great devotion.
Temple Highlights and Unique Features
- Ancient Heritage: The temple is over 800 years old, originally called Kuduma, and continues to uphold traditions across centuries.
- Architecture: Built in a blend of Dravidian, Hoysala, and Vijayanagara styles, the temple is a visual treat.
- Multi-Deity Worship: Apart from Lord Manjunatha, shrines are also dedicated to Goddess Ammanavaru, Lord Chandranatha, and other deities.
- Inclusive Tradition: Managed by Jain trustees while performing Hindu rituals—a rare symbol of religious harmony in India.
Additional Services for Devotees
- Free Annadanam (meals): The temple provides daily prasadam (free meals) to thousands of devotees.
- Accommodation: Various lodging facilities are available nearby for pilgrims at affordable rates.
- Online Services: From VIP booking to puja seva reservations, everything can be done at shridharmasthala.org.
🍛 Free Annadana at Dharmasthala Temple – A Divine Offering to All
One of the most touching and memorable parts of visiting Dharmasthala Temple is the Annadana Seva—a daily tradition of offering free meals to every devotee. No matter your religion, caste, or background, everyone is treated with equal respect and served hot, nutritious meals in a clean and humble setting.
Meal Serving Timings: From 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM
Location: Annapoorna Dining Hall, within the temple complex
Menu Includes: Traditional South Indian food like rice, sambar, seasonal vegetables, and buttermilk
Every single day, over 50,000 devotees receive this free meal, making it one of the largest free meal services in India. The Annadana here is not just food—it’s a symbol of equality, love, and service.
🕉️ Special Sevas and Poojas at Dharmasthala
Apart from darshan, devotees can also take part in or sponsor various special pujas and sevas at the temple. These spiritual offerings bring peace and blessings not just to individuals, but to entire families.
| Seva Name | Suggested Donation | What It Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Udayastamana Seva | ₹1500 – ₹2000 | Full-day pooja rituals with direct devotee involvement |
| Tulabhara Seva | Varies | Offer items like rice or jaggery equal to your body weight |
| Annadana Seva | ₹500 and above | Donate towards daily meals for thousands of devotees |
| Rudrabhisheka | ₹300 – ₹500 | Sacred abhisheka offered to Lord Shiva |
🙏 After each seva, devotees are given prasad and a receipt as confirmation.
📍 How to Reach Dharmasthala Temple – Travel Guide
Getting to Dharmasthala is easy and affordable with various transportation options available for pilgrims across India:
| Travel Mode | Details |
|---|---|
| By Road | Regular KSRTC and private buses from Mangalore, Bangalore, Udupi |
| By Train | Nearest Railway Station: Mangalore Junction (approx. 74 km away) |
| By Air | Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (approx. 70 km) |
| Local Travel | Auto-rickshaws and taxis are easily accessible from the bus stand |
Tip: KSRTC buses are frequent, budget-friendly, and connect directly to the temple town.
🧘 Visitor Tips for a Peaceful Temple Experience
For a smooth and respectful visit to Shree Kshetra Dharmasthala, keep these helpful tips in mind:
- Footwear: Must be removed and placed in the designated shoe stand.
- Dress Code: Traditional Indian clothes are recommended. Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, or tight outfits.
- Mobile Phones & Electronics: Not allowed inside the temple. Lockers are available near the entrance.
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings or after 5 PM when the crowd is thinner.
- Staying Options: Affordable guesthouses and temple-managed lodges are available nearby.
📸 Tourist Places Near Dharmasthala Temple
Make the most of your trip by visiting some of the beautiful attractions located near the temple:
- Bahubali Statue (Ratnagiri Hill): A majestic monolithic Jain statue offering scenic views.
- Netravathi River: A quiet riverside area perfect for peaceful strolls and reflection.
- Manjusha Car Museum: A fascinating collection of vintage cars and cultural artifacts.
- Chandranatha Basadi: A serene Jain temple showcasing the region’s rich spiritual heritage.
🕯️ Final Words – A Sacred Journey to Dharmasthala
A visit to Dharmasthala Temple is much more than a spiritual getaway. It’s a heart-touching experience rooted in faith, harmony, and selfless service. Whether you’re attending a vibrant pooja, taking part in Annadana, or simply walking through the temple grounds, the energy here is powerful and peaceful.
With its rich heritage and commitment to dharma, Dharmasthala stands as one of South India’s most loved and respected pilgrimage spots. It welcomes everyone with open arms, making sure no one leaves without food, blessings, or inner peace.
🙋♂️ FAQs About Dharmasthala Temple, Annadana, Sevas & Travel
Q1. What are the meal timings at Dharmasthala Temple?
Meals are served daily from 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM at Annapoorna Dining Hall.
Q2. Is food free for all devotees at Dharmasthala?
Yes, the temple offers free South Indian meals to all visitors through its Annadana service.
Q3. How many people are fed daily in Dharmasthala?
Over 50,000 devotees are served meals each day.
Q4. What are the popular sevas performed at Dharmasthala Temple?
Udayastamana, Tulabhara, Rudrabhisheka, and Annadana are among the most popular sevas.
Q5. How much does Annadana Seva cost at Dharmasthala?
Annadana donations start from ₹500 onwards.
Q6. Which station is closest to Dharmasthala Temple?
Mangalore Junction, located about 74 km away, is the nearest railway station.
Q7. What is the best way to reach Dharmasthala from Mangalore?
Regular KSRTC and private buses offer easy and affordable travel.
Q8. Are mobiles and cameras allowed inside Dharmasthala Temple?
No, electronic devices are not permitted inside the temple premises.
Q9. What is the dress code for Dharmasthala Temple?
Traditional attire is recommended; avoid western or revealing clothes.
Q10. What are the top tourist places near Dharmasthala?
Bahubali statue, Netravathi River, Manjusha Car Museum, and Jain temples nearby.