"Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala Manjunatha Swamy Temple is one of the most ancient temple in Karnataka (800 years old) and has a great history. The temple is situated in Dakshina Kannada District.
There are 2 queues for Darshana, One queue is free and the other one paid and the ticket may cost up to 200rs. The paid line will be a little quick and the other line will be as usual depending upon the crowd. The temple is built in the traditional South Indian style and very well maintained. The temple also serves Annadana ( Prasaada/ ಪ್ರಸಾದ ) to thousands of devotees daily, the food is very delicious and prepared with pure devotion.
The major event of the temple is Laksha Deepotsava (Festival of Lights), at this time the temple is beautifully illuminated.
The temple is managed by Shri Veerendra Heggade, Dharmadhikari of the Temple and also a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha. The temple also has many branches such as Educational Institutions, Hospitals, Charities are much appreciated!
You can also visit the Nearby Places around the temple like Shree Rama Kshetra, Manjusha Car Museum and Shri Bhagwan Bahubali Digambar Jain Statue.
Best place to visit with family!!"

Rudresh Chinagundi

"Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala Manjunatha Swamy Temple – A Divine Experience

Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala Manjunatha Swamy Temple, one of the most ancient and revered temples in Karnataka, holds a rich heritage of over 800 years. Located in the Dakshina Kannada district, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Manjunatha Swamy. It is beautifully constructed in the traditional South Indian architectural style and is renowned for its cleanliness, management, and spiritual ambiance.

The temple is systematically developed and maintained under the leadership of Shri Veerendra Heggade, the Dharmadhikari of the temple and a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha. He has ensured that all amenities for devotees—be it accommodation, food, or darshan—are well organized. Notably, Prasadam (Annadana) is served daily to thousands of devotees, and this sacred service continued even during the COVID-19 pandemic, benefiting lakhs of people.

Darshan Timings:

Morning: 6:30 AM to 2:30 PM

Evening: 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM

There are two queues for darshan:

Free Darshan

Paid Darshan (₹200 approx) – quicker and more convenient

Accommodation:

Online room booking is available through Dharmasthala website.
One of the best places to stay is Sahyadri, a clean and well-maintained temple apartment right next to Ayodya Hotel. Sahyadri provides:

Lift facility (elderly-friendly)

Online booking (24-hour stay policy due to high demand)

Peaceful and less crowded environment

Dining:

Ayodya Hotel is a great option for pure vegetarian meals—highly recommended.

Places to Visit Nearby:

Kukke Subramanya Temple

Ujire Surya Temple

Shree Rama Kshetra

Manjusha Car Museum (Note: Photography is prohibited inside)

Shri Bhagwan Bahubali Digambar Jain Statue

Special Events:

Laksha Deepotsava (Festival of Lights) – A grand celebration where the temple is lit beautifully, attracting thousands of devotees.

Personal Experience:

The temple visit was a spiritually fulfilling experience. Despite the large crowd—understandable due to the temple's popularity—everything was well-managed. Even during the pandemic, it was difficult to maintain, but all norms were followed to the extent possible. The serene atmosphere of the temple, along with its cultural richness, provides a deep sense of peace and inner joy.

This place is a must-visit for anyone religious at heart. Whether for the divine blessings, historic significance, or simply to experience spiritual bliss, Dharmasthala stands as a beacon of devotion and service."

Gaurav Shanbhogue

"- This devine place is believed to be well known since ages and powerfull too
- This temple has a historical story behind it.
- Temple darshana timings are as follows:
- 6.30 am to 2pm
- 5pm to 8.30pm

- Annaprasadam timings are as follows:
11am to 3.30pm and 7pm to 10pm

- Temple will be usually crowded with devotees, now the temple Authorities have made a good arrangements for the devotees to be seated, so as we move forward in line, we will reach a place where all the people are made to be seated in a room and batch wise they will let them in.
- The waiting room is so good, its air contioned room, have a seating arrangements for everyone, there is sepeartwe washroom for ladies and gents. There is drinking water facilities too and stores which sell eatables. Room is also equipped with TV.
- Darshanna was quite good compared to before days.
- Parking facilities are available
- The Annaprasadam dinning hall also is so good and systematically arranged, one should not miss it."

Trupthi Trupsy