Sri Vinayaka Temple, Anegudde (Anegudde Vinayaka Temple)
Folktale & Sacred Story
According to the temple's legend, a severe drought once struck the region and the sage Agastya undertook penance to propitiate Varuna, the rain god; during this penance the demon Kumbhasura began harassing the sages. Bhimasena is said to have obtained a weapon from Lord Ganesha to slay Kumbhasura at this very spot, after which the hill itself is described in local tradition as having taken the form of a protective elephant, giving the site its name, Anegudde.
Most Revered Practice
Vinayaka Chaturthi (Ganesh Chaturthi) is the temple's principal festival, marked by special abhishekas and extended darshan, while the monthly Sankashti Chaturthi also draws large crowds of devotees seeking the removal of obstacles.
Prasadam & Offerings
The temple is known for its free Anna Prasadam meal served to all visitors regardless of background, alongside sweet offerings such as Panchakajjaya and Modaka associated with Ganapati worship.
Temple Speciality
The temple's hilltop setting above Kumbashi, its identity as one of coastal Karnataka's seven Parashurama-kshetra Mukti Sthalas, and its associated Kumbhasura-slaying legend distinguish Anegudde among the region's many Ganapati shrines.
Why Pilgrims Visit
Pilgrims visit to seek Ganapati's blessings for new beginnings and the removal of obstacles, to take part in the temple's free community meal, and to enjoy the scenic hillock setting near the Kundapura coast.
History & Legend
The temple stands on a hillock called Anegudde ('elephant hill') above the village of Kumbashi, one of the seven Mukti Sthalas (Parashurama-kshetras) of coastal Karnataka. Local and pilgrimage tradition holds that the shrine's origins go back to the era of the sage Agastya, and the temple has long been a major Ganapati pilgrimage centre of the Udupi-Kundapura coast.
Divine Significance
Anegudde is one of the most visited Ganapati temples on the Karnataka coast, with devotees regarding Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka here as especially powerful for fulfilling vows and removing obstacles before major undertakings.
Darshan Timings
Generally around 5:30 AM to 9:00 PM (please confirm exact timings with the temple before visiting, as they vary by season and festival).
How To Reach
Nearest railway station is Kundapura on the Konkan Railway (about 12-13 km); nearest airport is Mangaluru International Airport (about 70-86 km).
Where To Stay
The temple trust and nearby Kumbashi/Kundapura town offer guesthouses and lodges; a wider range of hotels is available in Udupi city, about 25 km away.
Local Food Nearby
Free Anna Prasadam is served daily at the temple; Udupi-style vegetarian meals and coastal Karnataka food are widely available in nearby Kumbashi and Kundapura town.
Contact & Official Info
Official website: anegudde.in
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