1

2

3

4

5

6

Here’s a detailed guide to Sri Mangaladevi Temple, the namesake shrine from which the city of Mangaluru takes its name:

🏛️ Legend & Origins

• The temple is believed to date back to the 9th century AD, founded by King Kundavarma of the Alupa dynasty, under guidance from saints Machhendranath and Gorakhnath, who recognized a sacred site connected to the goddess Mangaladevi and directed the king to reconstruct her shrine.
• Local legend tells of a Malabar princess named Premaladevi (later called Mangaladevi) who became a disciple of Guru Matsyendranath and fell ill near Bolar. After her death, she was deified here, and the temple was built in her honor—hence the city is named Mangaluru (Mangaladevi-pura).

🧘 Deity & Architecture

• The presiding deity is Goddess Mangaladevi (a form of Shakti), typically represented in a seated posture in the garbha griha (sanctum).
• The temple reflects Kerala-style architecture, with a wooden superstructure, carvings, and a 60‑ft gopura. Its interiors are built largely from wood, supporting a peaceful and meditative ambiance.

⏰ Timings & Rituals

• Darshan hours:
  • 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM
  • 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM (Fridays till ~9:00 PM)
• Daily poojas:
  • Morning Puja: ~6:00 AM
  • Afternoon Puja: ~1:00 PM
  • Evening Aarti/Karpura Arati: 8:30 PM (9:00 PM on Fridays)
• Anna Santharpane (free midday meal) is served every Friday between 12:45 PM – 2:30 PM, with Satyanarayana Puja on the first Friday monthly at noon.

🎉 Festivals & Cultural Role

• Mangaladevi Dasara is a major festival, with Rathotsava (chariot procession), folk performances, tableaux, and cultural programmes during Navaratri, ending at the temple’s main chariot route.
• Local art forms such as Pilivēṣa (tiger dance), Dollu Kunitha, Yakshagana, and others are integral to the celebrations.
• Known for its peaceful and meditative vibe, it is a spiritual anchor amidst the city’s hustle.

📍 Location & Connectivity

• Located in Bolar, about 3 km southwest of central Mangaluru.
• Easily accessible via auto-rickshaw or bus (e.g., route 27), typically 10–15 minutes (around ₹10–20 by bus, ₹100–200 by auto) from Mangaluru Central or Junction stations.
• Nearest railway stations: Mangalore Central (MAQ) and Mangaluru Junction; airport at Bajpe (~10 km away).

🗺️ Nearby Attractions

• Kadri Manjunatheshwara Temple (~3–4 km away)
• Tannirbhavi Beach (~16 km)
• Mariyamma Temple (dedicated to Goddess regarded as sister of Mangaladevi, about 5 km away)

✅ Quick Overview