About Shri Shambhu Shaileshwara Shiva Temple & Shri Prasanna Someshwara Temple Shambhukallu , Udyavara
Shambhukallu Siva Temple is a peaceful and ancient temple located in Udyavara, one of the oldest towns near Udupi, Karnataka. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the destroyer of evil and the supreme power of creation and transformation in Hinduism.
Nestled amid the serene surroundings of Shambhukallu, the temple offers a spiritual experience filled with calmness, devotion, and divine energy. The area is blessed with natural beauty — green fields, coconut trees, and the gentle sound of temple bells make it an ideal place for meditation and prayer.
The main deity, Lord Shiva (Shambhu Mahadeva), is worshipped in the form of a Shivalinga, symbolizing the eternal presence of Shiva. Devotees believe that Lord Shiva here blesses all those who worship him with sincere devotion, removing negativity and bringing peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth.
The temple’s structure is built in traditional South Indian temple architecture, with a beautifully carved stone sanctum, wooden doors, and a simple gopuram (tower). The atmosphere around the temple is calm and divine, making every visit a soul-refreshing experience.
History of Shri Shambhu Shaileshwara Shiva Temple & Shri Prasanna Someshwara Temple Shambhukallu , Udyavara
The Shambhukallu Siva Temple has a long and sacred history, deeply rooted in the spiritual traditions of coastal Karnataka. According to local legends, this temple is one of the ancient temples of Udyavara, built by devotees who experienced the divine presence of Lord Shiva in the Shambhukallu region.
It is believed that centuries ago, a sacred Shivalinga was found under a rock (known as Shambhukallu), which radiated a mysterious and powerful energy. Recognizing it as a divine sign, the villagers constructed a small shrine to worship Lord Shiva at that spot. Over time, the shrine evolved into the present temple through the efforts and devotion of local families and saints.
The temple has stood as a symbol of faith for many generations. Despite modern developments around Udyavara and Udupi, the temple has maintained its ancient charm and continues to attract devotees from near and far.
It is said that several spiritual miracles have occurred here, and many devotees claim to have experienced inner peace and the fulfillment of wishes after praying sincerely to Shambhukallu Mahadeva.
Festivals Celebrated at Shri Shambhu Shaileshwara Shiva Temple
The temple celebrates several important Hindu festivals throughout the year with great devotion and participation from the local community. These festivals highlight the temple’s deep-rooted spiritual and cultural importance.
- Maha Shivaratri
Maha Shivaratri is the biggest and most important festival celebrated at Shambhukallu Siva Temple. Devotees observe fasting and stay awake all night chanting “Om Namah Shivaya.” The temple is beautifully decorated with flowers and lamps, and special poojas, abhishekas, and bhajans are performed. The divine vibration during this night is said to cleanse the mind and soul of all sins.
- Pradosha Pooja
Every Pradosha (the 13th day of the lunar fortnight) is considered highly auspicious for worshipping Lord Shiva. On these days, special Rudrabhisheka and Deepa Aradhane are performed, and many devotees visit the temple in the evening to offer prayers.
- Karthika Deepotsava
During the Karthika month (November–December), the temple glows with hundreds of oil lamps, creating a mesmerizing sight. Devotees light lamps and perform deepa pooja to Lord Shiva, praying for peace, prosperity, and family welfare.
- Ugadi and Sankranti
The temple also celebrates Ugadi (New Year) and Makara Sankranti with traditional rituals and prayers, seeking blessings for new beginnings and success.
- Annual Rathotsava (Car Festival)
Like many traditional temples in coastal Karnataka, the Shambhukallu Siva Temple also organizes an annual Rathotsava, where the idol of Lord Shiva is taken in a beautifully decorated wooden chariot around the temple. Devotees pull the chariot while chanting hymns and singing bhajans. The entire event symbolizes unity, devotion, and divine grace.
During these festivals, Annadana (free meal service) is organized for devotees and visitors, and the temple premises are filled with music, lights, and joyful celebration.
Sevas and Daily Poojas at the Temple
The temple offers a variety of Sevas (ritual offerings) that devotees can perform to seek blessings from Lord Shiva. Each Seva has its own significance, helping devotees overcome challenges and achieve peace of mind.
Popular Sevas at Shambhukallu Siva Temple:
Rudrabhisheka: Sacred bath offered to the Shivalinga with water, milk, honey, curd, and other holy items, while chanting the Rudram.
Panchamrutha Abhisheka: Abhisheka performed with five sacred ingredients — milk, curd, ghee, honey, and sugar.
Bilva Archana: Offering of Bilva leaves to Lord Shiva, believed to please him and remove sins.
Mahapooja: Special pooja performed for family peace, health, and prosperity.
Nagara Panchami Pooja: Worship of serpent deities, often performed in the temple premises during Shravan month.
Annadana Seva: Offering food to devotees as a sacred act of charity and devotion.
Special Sevas: Many devotees perform personal Sevas on birthdays, weddings, or before starting new ventures for divine blessings.
Daily rituals include Morning Pooja, Abhisheka, Mahamangalarathi, and Evening Deepa Aradhane. Devotees can book Sevas at the temple office, and during major festivals, online booking may also be available.
How to Reach Shambhukallu Siva Temple, Udyavara
The temple is conveniently located near Udupi, a well-known pilgrimage town in Karnataka. It is easily reachable by road, rail, and air.
By Road: Udyavara is just 6 km from Udupi town. Regular buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis are available from Udupi Bus Stand to reach Shambhukallu Siva Temple. The temple is situated in a quiet area, about 1 km off the main Udyavara road.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Udupi Railway Station, around 7 km from the temple. From the station, visitors can hire an auto or taxi to reach Udyavara easily.
By Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (Bajpe), located approximately 55 km away. From the airport, one can take a taxi or bus to Udupi and then to Udyavara.
Nearby Attractions:
Udupi Sri Krishna Temple – 6 km
Malpe Beach – 10 km
Kaup Lighthouse – 15 km
Manipal – 8 km
Temple Timings:
Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Evening: 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM
(Timings may vary during festivals and special Sevas.)
