Dharmasthala
Dharmasthala is the land of charity and one of the major pilgrims. It is beautifully nestled on the banks of River Netravati about 75 km from Mangalore. It is the city of cultural preservation and religious tolerance. Free lodging and free foods are always available to visitors irrespective of their caste and creed. It is well known for the Munjunatha Swamy temple which is devoted to Lord Shiva. The temple is belongs to 16th century and it is the prime attraction of Dharmasthala. Mass weddings are also conducted every year. It is a place of communal harmony where annual Sarva Dharma Sammelan takes place in which several spiritual leaders participates. It is also a famous pilgrim of Jains where one can find 11 meter high Bahubali statue. It is a perfect place to meditate. There are many other attractions nearby Dharmasthala including Manjusha Museum, Shiva temple in Karanje and Vasanthamahal.
Places to visit
Manjunatha Temple
It is a famous temple belongs to 16th century, devoted to Lord Shiva. It is located on the foots of Kadri hills. It is the finest living specimen of Vijayanagara architecture. The Shiva linga in sanctorum absorbs entire water poured on it. It is the distinct feature of this temple.
Bahubali Statue
It is located near Manjunatha temple. It has 39 feet tall monolithic statue of Jain Lord Bahubali which is placed on a 13 feet high platform. The entire statue is located on a holy hillock called Rathnagiri Betta. It is one of the popular Jain pilgrims in Karnataka.
Other Places
Neliyadi Beedu, Chandranath swamy temple, Manjusha museum, Ram mandir and Annapa Betta are nearby attractions in Dharmasthala.
How to reach Dharmasthala
By Air
Mangalore internatonal airport is located at a distance of 65 km from Dharmasthala.
By Train
Mangalore railway junction is the nearest railhead which connects all major railheads of India.
By Road
From all over Karnataka, plenty of buses are available to reach Dharmasthala.
Weather
In summer 23-37°C and in winter 13-30°C. It can be visited throughout the year.