Here’s a visual glance at the serene Karinja Hills, home to the revered Sri Karinjeshwara Temple, nestled atop lush, forested terrain—both spiritual and scenic in nature.
Karinjeshwara Hills – Overview
The Karinja Hills (also referred to as Kodyamale Hills) are located in Karinja village, Bantwal Taluk, Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka. These hills host the centuries-old Sri Karinjeshwara Temple, a significant spiritual and nature destination.
Temple & Features
- The complex features two shrines:
- Shiva’s temple at the summit—~1,000 ft (~300 m) above sea level.
- Parvati & Ganesha’s shrine midway up the hill, accessible by road.
- Climbing involves:
- ~600 stone-carved steps from the base to the summit.
- Alternatively, drive to the Parvati shrine and climb only the remaining ~150 steps.
Myth, Ponds & Monkeys
- Sacred ponds with mythological origins:
- Gadha Theertha, formed by Bhima’s mace.
- Angushta Theertha (thumb), Janu Theertha (knee), and Handi/Varaha Theertha, linked to Mahabharata legends.
- Vanara Anna Seva: Every noon, rice offering is placed for the resident monkeys. The troop leader—known as Karinja Dadda—eats first.
History & Legends
- The temple is over a thousand years old (circa 11th–12th century CE), with patronage from Vijayanagara-era Keladi rulers.
- Folklore connects the temple with:
- Ramayana and Mahabharata.
- Pandavas using the site as refuge during exile.
- Known by various names through epochs:
- Satyuga: Roudra Giri
- Dwapara: Bhima Shaila
- Kali Yuga: Karinja
Visitor Highlights
- Attractive Features:
- Tranquil hilltop temple with panoramic views of the Western Ghats.
- Festivals:
- Maha Shivaratri, celebrated spectacularly over four days with Rathotsava and divine reunions.
- Spiritual Practices:
- Devotees visit Gadha Theertha for ritual baths and healing.
Ecological & Conservation Context
- The hills lie amid a fragile forest ecosystem, popular with nature seekers.
- In 2023, the Karnataka government banned mining and stone-crushing within a 2 km radius to protect the temple and preserve ecological balance.
- Authorities are considering declaring the area as eco-sensitive, with plans to improve minimal tourist facilities responsibly.
Access & Travel Details
By Road
- Location: ~35–40 km from Mangaluru, near BC Road on Mangaluru–Dharmasthala route.
- Driving Route:
- Via BC Road → Dharmasthala road → turn at Karinja junction → scenic forest stretch to the temple base.
By Public Transport
- Buses available from Mangalore to Vegga and BC Road; local vehicles reach the base or midway.
By Rail & Air
- Nearest Railhead: Bantwal Railway Station (~15 km) or Mangalore Junction.
- Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (~40–45 km).
Quick Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Peak / Shrine | Shiva’s temple at ~1,000 ft; Parvati shrine midway |
| Steps | ~600 steps full climb; ~150 from Parvati shrine |
| Legends | Mahabharata & Ramayana connections; Pandavas & sacred ponds |
| Wildlife | Resident monkeys worshipped via Vanara Anna Seva |
| Festivals | Maha Shivaratri (4-day celebration with Rathotsava) |
| Access | 35–40 km from Mangaluru; drive → forest route → base → climb |
| Conservation | Mining banned within 2 km; potential eco-sensitive designation pending |