About Shambhukallu Durgaparameshwari Temple, Udyavara
Shambhukallu Durgaparameshwari Temple is a beautiful and sacred Hindu temple situated in Udyavara, near Udupi, Karnataka. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga Parameshwari, the powerful mother goddess who blesses her devotees with courage, prosperity, and protection from evil.
Udyavara is one of the oldest towns in the Udupi district and has a rich cultural and spiritual heritage. The temple is located in the scenic area of Shambhukallu, surrounded by lush greenery and a peaceful village environment. The calm surroundings and divine atmosphere make it a perfect place for prayer, meditation, and spiritual connection.
The main deity, Shree Durgaparameshwari, is worshipped in the sanctum sanctorum (Garbha Gudi). The idol is beautifully adorned with flowers, jewels, and traditional silk sarees every day. The temple architecture reflects the traditional style of coastal Karnataka, featuring carved wooden doors, tiled roofs, and a sacred stone structure that gives a sense of timelessness and devotion.
Devotees believe that Goddess Durgaparameshwari protects them from negative energies and blesses them with strength and success. Many people visit the temple regularly to offer prayers and express gratitude for their fulfilled wishes.
History of Shambhukallu Veerabhadra Durgaparameshwari Temple, Udyavara
The Shambhukallu Durgaparameshwari Temple has a long and fascinating history that goes back several centuries. According to local beliefs and legends, this temple was established by great devotees who were guided by divine dreams and signs from the Goddess herself.
It is said that the area of Shambhukallu was once dense with forests and stones, where a Shila (sacred rock) radiating divine energy was discovered. The villagers believed it to be the presence of Goddess Durga, and with devotion and unity, they constructed a small shrine to worship her. Over the years, with the blessings of the Goddess and contributions from devotees, the shrine developed into the beautiful temple that stands today.
The temple has been a spiritual center for local communities for generations. Various rituals, poojas, and festivals have been performed here for hundreds of years, preserving the divine traditions. The temple continues to play a major role in the religious and cultural life of Udyavara and nearby villages.
Festivals Celebrated at Shambhukallu Durgaparameshwari Temple
The temple celebrates many important Hindu festivals throughout the year with devotion and grandeur. These celebrations bring together people from Udyavara, Udupi, and surrounding areas.
- Navaratri and Vijayadashami (Dussera)
The Navaratri festival is the most significant event at Shambhukallu Durgaparameshwari Temple. For nine days, special poojas, homas, and decorations are performed in honor of Navadurga – the nine forms of Goddess Durga. The temple is beautifully decorated with flowers and lights. On Vijayadashami, the festival concludes with grand rituals and a divine procession, where the idol of the Goddess is taken around the temple with music, lamps, and chanting.
- Annual Rathotsava (Car Festival)
The Rathotsava, or chariot festival, is another major celebration. The idol of Durgaparameshwari Devi is placed on a beautifully decorated wooden chariot and pulled by devotees around the temple premises. The event is marked by bhajans, drum beats, and great enthusiasm. It represents unity, devotion, and divine blessings for the community.
- Deepavali
During Deepavali, the temple glows with hundreds of oil lamps, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness. Devotees pray to Goddess Lakshmi and Durgaparameshwari for wealth, happiness, and family prosperity.
- Chandika Homa and Special Poojas
The Chandika Homa and Durga Pooja are powerful rituals conducted during special occasions for protection, peace, and spiritual growth. These homas are performed with sacred fire offerings, chanting of Vedic mantras, and offering of flowers and ghee to the Goddess.
- Other Hindu Festivals
Other festivals like Ugadi, Makara Sankranti, Ganesh Chaturthi, and Karthika Deepotsava are also observed with special poojas and cultural programs. During these times, prasadam (holy food) is distributed to all devotees visiting the temple.
During all major festivals, the temple becomes a center of joy, devotion, and unity for the entire community.
Sevas and Offerings at the Temple
Devotees can perform various Sevas (ritual services) to seek blessings from Goddess Durgaparameshwari. Each Seva has spiritual meaning and benefits, and they can be performed daily or on special occasions.
Popular Sevas at Shambhukallu Durgaparameshwari Temple:
Durga Pooja: Main pooja performed to the Goddess for peace, protection, and prosperity.
Kunkuma Archana: Offering of kumkum and flowers while reciting the 108 names of the Goddess.
Chandika Homa: A powerful fire ritual for protection from negative forces and success in life.
Navagraha Pooja: To remove problems caused by planetary positions and bring good fortune.
Tulabhara Seva: Offering materials like fruits, jaggery, or grains equal to the devotee’s body weight.
Annadana Seva: Offering free meals to devotees and visitors, considered one of the highest forms of charity.
Special Family Sevas: Many devotees perform special poojas on birthdays, anniversaries, or before starting new ventures.
Devotees can book Sevas directly at the temple office. During festival times, advance booking is advised due to large crowds. Donations and offerings help maintain the temple and support community services like Annadana and cultural programs.
How to Reach Shambhukallu Durgaparameshwari Temple, Udyavara
The temple is easily accessible from all major towns in the Udupi district.
By Road: Udyavara is about 6 km from Udupi town. Regular buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis are available from Udupi Bus Stand. The temple is located close to the Udyavara main road and can be easily reached by a short drive.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Udupi Railway Station, located about 7 km away from the temple. From the station, taxis and autos are available to reach Shambhukallu, Udyavara.
By Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (Bajpe), around 55 km away. From the airport, visitors can hire taxis or take buses to reach Udupi and then to Udyavara.
Nearby Attractions:
Udupi Sri Krishna Temple – 6 km
Malpe Beach – 10 km
Kaup Beach and Lighthouse – 15 km
Manipal – 8 km
Visitors often combine their trip to Udupi with a visit to Shambhukallu Durgaparameshwari Temple to experience spiritual peace and coastal beauty together.
Temple Timings:
Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Evening: 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM
(Timings may vary during festivals and special poojas.)
