Kudroli Sri Gokarnanatheshwara Temple

Lord Shiva (as Gokarnanatha)

Kudroli, Mangaluru

Folktale & Sacred Story

Community memory recounts how, faced with exclusion from other temples, Billava community leaders sought out Narayana Guru specifically because of his stance against caste discrimination; his decision to personally choose the site at Kudroli and oversee the temple's founding is remembered locally as a defining act of social courage that reshaped religious life in the region.

Most Revered Practice

The temple is the focal point of the 'Mangalore Dasara,' a grand Navaratri celebration featuring an illuminated temple complex and elaborate processions, considered the temple's most important and widely attended annual event.

Prasadam & Offerings

Prasadam details not independently verified — confirm locally.

Temple Speciality

Combining elements of Kerala and Karnataka temple architecture, the temple is notable both for its striking illuminated gopura during festivals and for its unique socio-religious history as a temple founded for the cause of equality.

Why Pilgrims Visit

Visitors can experience one of coastal Karnataka's most vibrant Dasara celebrations while learning about a temple whose very founding was an act of social reform.

History & Legend

The Kudroli Gokarnanatheshwara Temple was established in 1912 under the direct guidance of the social reformer Sree Narayana Guru, at a time when caste-based restrictions barred many communities from entering established temples. Community leader Sahukar Koragappa, along with other Billava community elders, traveled to meet Narayana Guru in 1908 seeking his support; Narayana Guru later visited Mangaluru, personally selected the Kudroli site, and guided the temple's design and consecration. Construction and installation of the deity proceeded under his direction, with H. Koragappa credited as a key patron of the project.

Divine Significance

The temple stands as a lasting symbol of Narayana Guru's reformist philosophy, summarized in his teaching 'One Caste, One Religion, One God,' and was built explicitly to be open to worshippers of all communities and castes.

Darshan Timings

Generally open around 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM and 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM daily (please confirm exact timings with the temple before visiting, as they vary by season and festival).

How To Reach

The nearest airport is Mangaluru International Airport (about 20 km), and the nearest railway station is Mangaluru Central, roughly 3 km away.

Where To Stay

Mangaluru city offers a wide range of hotels and lodges close to the temple.

Local Food Nearby

Mangaluru is known for its distinctive coastal vegetarian and non-vegetarian cuisine, including local sweets and snacks widely available near the temple.

Contact & Official Info

Visitors can contact the Kudroli Gokarnanatheshwara Temple management committee for darshan and festival information.

Location Map

View on Google Maps → (12.876119, 74.831554)