Sri Subramanya temple is situated in a small village in the thickness of the forest bordering the western ghats (165 kms from Udupi). The pilgrims going to Subrahmanya have to cross the Kumaradhara river. They take bath in this river and then proceed to the temple to have darshan. Here Lord Subramanya is worshipped in the form of a serpent. It is believed that the serpents, who took refuge in Lord Subramanya, got shelter in the caves here.
According to a legend, as a result of the boon conferred upon the demon Tarakasura by Gods, in answer to his penance, he could not be killed by anybody, either men or Gods aged above seven days and therefore being confident that there was no death for him, he began to trouble the whole world. The story goes on to say that he fought single-handed and conquered all the three worlds.
The Rishis also found it difficult to go on with their penance and hence they went to Lord Shiva and requested him to redress their grievances. Luckily enough, it was the seventh day since his son Subrahmanya was born, and through this child aged seven days only, the demon Tarakasura was slain in a hand-to-hand fight, and Sri Subrahmanya permanently made his abode nearby which is called “Adi Subramanya”. Near this temple is a Madhwa Math.
The temple Guest Houses provide accommodation to the pilgrims at Subrahmanya.
The Main Deity
The presiding deity here is Lord Subrahmanya, who is also known as Skanda or Kartikeya. However, at Kukke, Lord Subrahmanya is worshipped as the divine protector of all serpents. The belief is that the divine serpent Vasuki and other snakes found refuge under Lord Subrahmanya here when they were threatened by Garuda.
The temple’s location is special. The famous Kumara Parvatha hill is in the backdrop, and the Kumaradhara River flows near the temple. Taking a holy dip in the river before entering the temple is considered very auspicious.
Key Rituals and Importance
Kukke Subrahmanya is primarily famous for performing rituals related to snake curses or Sarpa Dosha and other ancestral problems. The most important rituals are:
- Sarpa Samskara / Sarpa Dosha Nivarana: A highly important ritual performed to please the serpent god and get relief from curses related to snakes or ancestors.
- Ashlesha Bali: A special puja performed on the Ashlesha Nakshatra (star) day, dedicated to the serpent deities.
It is believed that by performing these rituals here, one can find peace, prosperity, and cure from skin-related and other diseases.
Celebrations (Festivals)
The temple celebrates many festivals with great devotion and pomp throughout the year. The most important ones are:
- Champa Shashti (or Subrahmanya Shashti): This is the main annual festival, celebrated in the month of Margashira (November/December). A grand Rathotsava (chariot festival) is held, which attracts thousands of devotees.
- Ashlesha Bali Days: Since the Ashlesha Bali ritual is so important, the days when the Ashlesha Nakshatra falls are considered highly sacred, and the temple sees a massive rush on those days.
- Rathasapthami: The festival of the Sun God, celebrated with special pujas.
How to Reach Sri Kukke Subramanya Temple
Kukke Subrahmanya is a small village but is well-connected due to the temple’s fame.
By Road
It is well-connected by road from major cities like Bangalore (around 280 km), Mangalore (around 105 km), and Mysore (around 220 km). KSRTC and private buses run frequently.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Subrahmanya Road (SBHR), which is about 7 km from the temple. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are easily available from the station to the temple.
By Air
The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (IXE), which is about 115 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi to reach the temple.
Kukke Sri Subramanya Temple
Subramanya – 574 238, Sullia Taluk, Karnataka, India
Tel: 91 825 681224, Guest house: 91 825 681423
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