Sringeri Sharadamba Temple

Goddess Sharadamba (Saraswati)

Sringeri, Chikkamagaluru district

Folktale & Sacred Story

According to tradition, Adi Shankara chose this spot on the banks of the Tunga river after witnessing a cobra shielding an exhausted frog from the sun's heat with its raised hood, an image of natural harmony he took as a sign of the land's extraordinary sanctity, prompting him to establish his matha and install the goddess here.

Most Revered Practice

The unbroken lineage of daily worship overseen by the Sringeri Jagadguru, and the grand annual Navaratri celebrations, are the temple's most revered traditions.

Prasadam & Offerings

Lunch and dinner prasada are served in the temple's dining hall to pilgrims at fixed hours daily.

Temple Speciality

As the seat of the first of Adi Shankara's four cardinal mathas, Sringeri combines a functioning monastic institution with an active temple, set on the scenic banks of the Tunga river alongside the neighbouring Vidyashankara temple.

Why Pilgrims Visit

A pilgrimage of deep philosophical and spiritual significance for followers of Advaita Vedanta, set in a picturesque Western Ghats river town.

History & Legend

The temple is traditionally dated to the 8th century CE, established by Adi Shankaracharya as the seat of his first matha, the Sringeri Sharada Peetham, the southern of the four cardinal mathas he founded. The original shrine was destroyed during a raid in the late 18th century; on hearing of the destruction, Tipu Sultan, though a Muslim ruler, is recorded to have written letters of sympathy and offered support for its restoration out of respect for the Jagadguru. The temple has since been rebuilt and embellished over the following centuries.

Divine Significance

As the seat of Goddess Saraswati installed by Adi Shankara himself, and the spiritual headquarters of one of Hinduism's most important monastic lineages, Sringeri is a major centre of both worship and Advaita Vedanta scholarship.

Darshan Timings

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

How To Reach

Nearest railway stations are Shimoga and Udupi, roughly 90-100 km away; nearest airport is Mangaluru International Airport, about 100 km away.

Where To Stay

The Sringeri matha runs guest houses and choultries for pilgrims, supplemented by private hotels in the town.

Local Food Nearby

Sringeri is known for its traditional Malnad-style vegetarian meals, served in the matha's dining hall as well as at local eateries in the town.

Contact & Official Info

Contact the Sringeri Sharada Peetham administration for visit, stay and darshan information.

Location Map

View on Google Maps → (13.418, 75.252)