Madhukeshwara Temple

Getting there

• By train

  The nearest major railway stations are Talaguppa, Kumta and Hubballi. From there, travel by road to Sirsi and then Banavasi.

• By road

  Banavasi is about 20 to 25 km from Sirsi town, reached by road.

Rules to know

• Remove footwear where required and respect the prayer spaces.

Why devotees come here

Madhukeshwara Temple stands at the heart of Banavasi, a town in the forests of Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka. It is a Shiva temple described as a masterpiece of early Chalukyan architecture. The temple has a honey-coloured lingam and an impressive monolithic Nandi.

Madhukeshwara is the heart of Banavasi, one of Karnataka's oldest towns, tucked away in the verdant forests of Uttara Kannada district. It is dedicated to Shiva and described as a masterpiece of early Chalukyan architecture. The lingam inside is honey-coloured. The temple also has an impressive monolithic Nandi.

Banavasi was once the capital of the Kadamba dynasty. The Kadambas were the first royal family to rule from Karnataka, and the first to use Kannada for administration. The Kadambotsava festival honours this Kadamba heritage today.

Accounts differ on the temple's age. One dates it to the 2nd century, when the Kadamba dynasty built it. Another dates it to the 9th century. The sources do not agree, so no single date is settled.

Festivals

• February or MarchKadambotsava

  A two-day state-level cultural festival. Classical music and dance recitals are held in the temple precincts after dusk. Programmes also include morning cultural walks, competitions and evening stage performances.

Tips for your visit

• Check the confirmed festival dates and programme before you plan a visit.
• Wear comfortable footwear for walking on stone and village paths, and carry a light layer, as evenings can be cool.
• Carry some cash, since digital payment may be limited at local snack, craft and rural stalls.

Questions people ask