Hebri in Karkala taluk is a prominent business centre of Udupi district. Situated just beneath the picturesque Agumbe Ghats, Hebri, enriched by the flow of river Seethanadi, has a number of agro-based industries such as cashew processing, rice mills, oil mills, cattle feed manufacturing and others. It also has a calm atmosphere, surrounded by green paddy fields, arecanut, coconut and cashew plantations and thick, green forests.
The name ‘Hebri’ has been arrived from a word- Hebberi. The village had an enormous ‘Bheri’ (Drum), an instrument producing huge noise, which was used to caution people during calamities. This Bheri (Hebberi) brought a beautiful name for a colourful town.
Lord Anantha Padmanabha is the presiding deity of the Temple, situated on the main road. The Temple premise also accommodates the shrines of Kshethrapala, Khadga Ravana and Dhoomavathi. The idol, a beautiful black granite sculpture in standing posture, is three feet in height. Famous historian late Dr Gururaj Bhat, who had studied the sculpture of the deity, was of the opinion that the deity should have to be recognised as Lord Srinivasa. But available lithographs, which also point at the generous donations of some kings to this Temple, have mentioned the deity as Sri Anantha Devaru or Sri Anantha Padmanabha. Three different idols were installed simultaneously in three Temples at Hebri, Perdur and Iruvathur.
A Brahmin family was brought here in the 18th century for worshipping Lord Anantha Padmanabha. Beedina Ballala family of Hebri is looking after the management of the Temple on hereditary basis.
It is said that in the beginning of the 20th century, almost half of the Hebri Town was reduced to ashes in a fire accident. The Temple Car (Ratha) also became a victim of the fire. Later devotees offered a new Car for their Lord. Annual festival- Gounothsava- is held for five days starting from Kumbha Sankramana.
About Sri Anantha Padmanabha Temple, Hebri
Sri Anantha Padmanabha Temple is a very ancient and holy temple located in Hebri, a beautiful nature town in the Udupi district of Karnataka. The temple is worship Lord Sri Anantha Padmanabha, one of the forms of Lord Vishnu, who is seen resting on the great serpent Adishesha. Surrounded by lush green forests and the calm beauty of the Western Ghats, the temple stands as a symbol of devotion, purity, and tradition.
The temple is not only a spiritual centre but also a place where nature and divinity meet. Many devotees visit this temple throughout the year to seek the blessings of Lord Anantha Padmanabha for peace, health, and prosperity. The idol of the Lord here is unique, and the temple follows traditional South Indian style architecture, which reflects simplicity, culture, and ancient craftsmanship.
Inside the temple, the atmosphere is very calm and divine. The sound of temple bells, the fragrance of sandalwood and flowers, and the chanting of mantras create a spiritual experience that fills every heart with devotion. The temple is well maintained, and devotees are always welcomed warmly by the priests and local community.
History of Sri Anantha Padmanabha Temple, Hebri
The history of Sri Anantha Padmanabha Temple goes back several centuries. It is believed that the temple was built by local rulers and devotees who had great devotion towards Lord Vishnu. According to ancient legends, this temple was blessed by sages and saints who performed penance in this region. Some local stories say that this temple was established with divine inspiration to protect the area and the people living here.
The main deity, Lord Anantha Padmanabha Swamy, is represented in a reclining position on the serpent Adishesha, symbolizing eternal rest and peace. This form of Vishnu is similar to the one worshipped in the famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Because of this, many devotees call this temple the “Hebri Anantha Padmanabha Temple” and consider it equally sacred.
In earlier times, the temple was the main religious centre for people from nearby villages. It was also a place for social gatherings, education, and community functions. Over the years, several renovations were done to preserve the temple’s structure and maintain its beauty. Even today, the temple holds the same importance and continues to attract thousands of devotees and visitors every year.
The temple also reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Udupi region. The local traditions, rituals, and festivals celebrated here show the deep connection between devotion and everyday life. The temple stands as a living example of the strong faith and unity among the people of Hebri and surrounding areas.
Festivals Celebrated at the Temple
Festivals at Sri Anantha Padmanabha Temple are celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion. The temple becomes very lively during festival days, and people from nearby villages and towns come together to participate in the celebrations. The main festivals include:
- Brahma Rathotsava (Annual Car Festival)
The Brahma Rathotsava is the grandest and most important festival of the temple. It usually takes place once every year, and it lasts for several days. During this festival, the beautifully decorated idol of Lord Anantha Padmanabha is placed on a large wooden chariot (ratha) and taken around the temple streets. Devotees pull the chariot with devotion while chanting the Lord’s name. The whole area is decorated with lights, flowers, and traditional torches. Cultural programs, bhajans, and community feasts are also organized during this time.
- Vaikunta Ekadashi
Vaikunta Ekadashi is one of the most sacred days for devotees of Lord Vishnu. On this day, the “Vaikunta Dwara” or the “Gateway to Heaven” is opened in the temple. Devotees fast and spend the day in prayer, chanting, and meditation. It is believed that those who pass through the Vaikunta Dwara on this day will attain spiritual liberation and the blessings of Lord Vishnu.
- Deepavali and Makara Sankranti
During Deepavali, the temple is decorated with hundreds of oil lamps that light up the night beautifully. Special pujas are performed, and devotees offer prayers for prosperity and happiness.
Makara Sankranti marks the beginning of the harvest season. Devotees thank the Lord for good crops and well-being.
- Nagapanchami
Since Lord Vishnu is associated with the serpent Adishesha, Nagapanchami is celebrated with great respect in the temple. Devotees offer milk, turmeric, and flowers to the serpent idols and pray for protection and good fortune.
- Sri Krishna Janmashtami
As Lord Vishnu’s avatar, Sri Krishna’s birth is celebrated with great joy. The temple conducts bhajans, devotional singing, and cultural events like “Mosaru Kudike” and “Uriyadi.” Children and devotees participate with enthusiasm.
During all these festivals, the temple becomes a place of joy, devotion, and unity. People come together to pray, celebrate, and share food, making it a true community festival.
Sevas at the Temple
Sri Anantha Padmanabha Temple offers many sevas (services) for devotees who wish to express their devotion and gratitude to the Lord. These sevas are performed according to traditional customs and with great care by the temple priests. Some of the common sevas include:
Archana: Personal prayer done in the name of the devotee and family members.
Abhisheka: Sacred bathing of the deity with water, milk, honey, and other items.
Tulabhara: Offering items like rice, fruits, or coins equal to the devotee’s weight.
Deepa Seva: Lighting oil lamps in the temple for divine blessings.
Annadanam: Offering free food to devotees and the needy.
Special Pujas: Conducted on special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or in times of personal prayer requests.
Vishesha Seva: Special poojas and rituals done on festival days or for family well-being.
Devotees can book sevas at the temple office. Many people also donate generously to support temple maintenance, pujas, and annadanam programs.
How to Reach Sri Anantha Padmanabha Temple, Hebri
The temple is located in Hebri, which is a small town in the Udupi district of Karnataka. Hebri is surrounded by scenic beauty, rivers, and forests. It is easily reachable by road, rail, and air.
By Road: Hebri is well connected by road. Regular buses and private vehicles operate from Udupi (35 km), Karkala (25 km), and Agumbe (20 km). The temple is located close to the main town centre, and autos or taxis are easily available.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Udupi Railway Station, which lies on the Konkan Railway route. From the station, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to Hebri. The journey takes about one hour.
By Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, located around 70 kilometres away. From the airport, one can reach Hebri by taxi or bus via Udupi.
The temple is easy to find, and local people are always happy to help visitors find their way. Roads leading to the temple pass through beautiful countryside, offering a pleasant travel experience.
Temple Address
Sri Anantha Padmanabha Temple
Hebri, Udupi District,
Karnataka – 576112
Temple Timings:
Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Evening: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
