Mangalore Kadri Shree Manjunatha Temple

Kadri Manjunatha Temple is located in the Kadri area of ​​the coastal city of Mangaluru in Karnataka. The temple is believed to be one of the oldest Shiva temples in South India and has a history associated with both Buddhism and Hinduism. The temple was built in the 10th or 11th century. Initially, the area was a Buddhist monastery called "Kadri Vihara", where Vajrayana Buddhism was dominant. Later, the site became a major center of Hinduism and Lord Manjunatha (Shiva) began to be worshipped. The temple houses a nearly 5-feet high bronze statue of Lokeswara, which is believed to be the oldest among South Indian temples. The temple also houses bronze statues of Lokeswara and Gautama Buddha, indicating its Buddhist origin. The temple also has tanks with natural springs and Pandava caves. According to a copper plate inscription, in 968 AD, King Kundavarma of the Alupa dynasty installed a magnificent bronze statue of Lord Lokanatha (Avalokiteswara) here. This statue is counted among the most ancient and beautiful bronze statues of India. This temple is a confluence of Hindu and Buddhist traditions, symbolizing religious tolerance and cultural diversity. The sculpture, architecture and water source of the temple make it important as a religious, historical and tourist destination. This place is considered a very holy pilgrimage for Shiva devotees. The importance of the temple is said to be due to the idol of Lord Manjunath (Shiva) and Shivalinga. Bronze statues: Lokanatha, Buddha, Vedavyas, Machhindranath, Gorakhnath etc. Gomukh Tirtha: There is an ancient water source behind the temple, whose water flows into 9 ponds. It is considered sacred and devotees take bath in it. Pandava Caves: Ancient caves located near the temple, believed to be the place where the Pandavas lived. It includes Shobha Yatra, Rathotsavam and various religious rituals. 2. Deepotsavam in which the temple is decorated with lamps in the month of Karthik (October-November). 3. Savari Bali which is a unique festival in which Lord Manjunatha travels to four nearby places (Katta) in a palanquin.