The Sri Brahmi Durgaparameshwari Temple in Kamalashile is a very famous and old temple in Udupi district of Karnataka state. It’s located in a beautiful green area called Kamalashile village, which is in Udupi district, near Kundapura. The Kubja River flows close by, making the whole place very peaceful and good for feeling spiritual.
What is special about this temple?
Goddess as a Linga: This temple is quite unique because here, Goddess Durgaparameshwari is worshipped not as a regular idol, but as a Linga. You know, usually, Shiva Linga is worshiped, but here it’s for matha Durga. People believe this Linga is a mix of three powerful goddesses: Mahakali, Maha Saraswati, and Maha Lakshmi. So, you get blessings of all three in one place. The name “Kamalashile” itself means “lotus-shaped stone” because of this Linga.
Old Stories and Legends: This temple has many old stories. Some say it’s from very very long ago, like Treta Yuga. Other story says Goddess Parvati came here as the Kamalashile Linga after fighting a demon. Another story talks about a lady named Pingala who got cursed and did penance here in a cave, and then got free.
Suparshwa Cave: Near the temple, there’s a cave called Suparshwa Cave. It’s believed that many wise people and even Shankaracharya did meditation here. People also say that a tiger, which is Goddess Durga’s vehicle, still comes to this cave every evening, and a fire is lit for it.
“Salaam Pooja”: This is a very interesting tradition here. Every evening, a special puja called “Salaam Pooja” is done. It’s a way to honor the old Muslim rulers, Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, who supported this temple. This shows how our old temples had good harmony between different religions.
Peaceful Place: Because it’s surrounded by thick forests, hills, and the Kubja River, the temple atmosphere is very calm and spiritual. Many people feel a very good positive energy when they visit.
Festivals: The temple celebrates many festivals with great enthusiasm. The main ones are the annual car festival (Rathotsava), usually in April. Also, Navaratri is a very big festival here with grand celebrations. Other festivals like Deepavali, Makar Sankranti, and Ugadi are also celebrated. Twice a month, on Ekadashi, the Linga is covered with fresh clay (mruthika), and the old clay is given as ‘prasada’ which people believe has healing powers.
Good for Devotees: The temple provides facilities for people who come to visit, like places to stay and free food (prasadam) at certain times.
How to reach Sri Brahmi Durgaparameshwari Temple in Kamalashile?
Kamalashile is in Udupi district, Karnataka. From Bangalore, it’s a bit of a journey, around 380-450 km depending on the route.
By Car/Taxi: You can drive or hire a taxi. It will take around 8-9 hours. You can take routes via NH 48 and then connect to roads leading to Kundapura and then Kamalashile.
By Bus: You can take a bus from Bengaluru to Kundapura. From Kundapura, you can take a local bus or taxi to Kamalashile (around 35 km).
By Train: The nearest railway station is Kundapura. You can take a train from Bengaluru to Kundapura, which might take around 10-11 hours. From Kundapura, you can go by bus or taxi.
By Flight: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (IXE), which is about 120 km from Kamalashile. From Mangalore, you can hire a taxi.
Overall, Sri Brahmi Durgaparameshwari Temple at Kamalashile is a very important and beautiful temple where you can experience deep spirituality and see ancient traditions. Many devotees visit here for blessings and peace of mind.
Sri Brahmi Durgaparameshwari temple
Kamalashile
Kundapur Taluk
Udupi District, INDIA
Pin code: 576229
Phone 08259-277221
