Here’s an in-depth look at the Sri Chandika Durga Parameshwari Temple, located at Kumbhasi (also spelled Kumbhashi) on the Kundapur–Udupi highway in Karnataka’s Udupi district:
🏛️ Overview & Origins
- Constructed and consecrated in 2018, this new shrine honors the Goddess Chandika Durga Parameshwari, part of the broader Parashurama Kshetra circuit of sacred coastal temples.
- The temple was built by Sri Devaraya Manjunath Sheregar and family following a series of divine visions. An Ashtamangala Prashna confirmed the presence of ancestral deities—Sri Kalika Parameshwari, Chamundeshwari, and Durga—and led to the temple’s establishment.
🖼️ Deity & Architecture
- The main deity, Sri Chandika Durga Parameshwari, is depicted riding her lion, holding the trishul (right) and chakra (left), flanked by Abhaya (fearlessness) and Varada (blessing) mudras. Sub-shrines include Ganapati, Srinivasa Perumal (Venkataramana), Naga Devathas, Yakshinis and more.
- The exterior features a five-tiered white Rajagopuram atop gray pillars, while interior spaces display ornate Kerala-style wooden carvings. The sanctum is built in stone with interiors richly ornamented in wood and metal plating.
⏰ Timings & Facilities
- Temple is open continuously from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily—no afternoon closing.
- Facilities include a large function hall for events and marriages, a yagna mandapam, Seva Kendra kiosk, Thulabharam, Oonjal (swing), and a Pushkarini (sacred tank). The entrance courtyard features idols of Rahu and Ketu, a Dwajasthambha (flagpole), Bali peetham, and a Tulasi platform.
🌟 Visitor Experience & Reviews
- Travelers praise its serene ambience, peaceful setting, and spacious layout. Many note how well-maintained it feels, with visitors spending time in silent meditation in front of Devi. “Such a beautiful and well‑maintained temple… ambience is so peaceful and divine.”
“Divine Temple, well maintained & spacious… wood‑work in the inner chamber… mesmerizing.”
📍 Location & Access
- Situated in Kumbhasi, Kundapur Taluk, Udupi District—approximately 31 km from Udupi, 85 km from Mangalore, and just 1 km before Anegudde Vinayaka Temple on the NH‑66.
- Easily accessible by road, with ample parking; most visitors combine a stop here along with Anegudde Vinayaka Temple, which lies just ahead.
✅ Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Deity | Sri Chandika Durga Parameshwari on her lion (trishul & chakra) |
| Established | 2018, under guidance of divine visions |
| Architecture | Five-tier white-gold gopura, Kerala-style wood interiors |
| Timings | 5 AM–9 PM (open all day) |
| Facilities | Seva Kendra, function hall, Pushkarini, yagna mandapam |
| Nearby Sites | Anegudde Vinayaka Temple (~1 km away) |
| Visitor Feedback | Peaceful ambience, serene energy, neat & spacious layout |