Sri Renuka Yellamma Temple, Saundatti

Goddess Yellamma (worshipped as a form of Renuka Devi)

Saundatti (Yellamma Gudi hill), Belagavi district

Folktale & Sacred Story

The temple's central legend tells of Renuka, wife of the sage Jamadagni, who possessed the power to carry water home in unbaked clay pots so long as her purity remained unbroken; one day, momentarily distracted at the riverbank, her concentration lapsed and the pot crumbled. In his anger, Jamadagni ordered their son Parashurama to behead her, which he did in obedience to his father, but Parashurama later persuaded the sage to restore her to life — after which Renuka came to be worshipped as the goddess Yellamma.

Most Revered Practice

The temple's annual Rathotsava (chariot festival) and jatra is its most significant event, drawing enormous crowds of pilgrims for the procession and darshan.

Prasadam & Offerings

Prasadam details not independently verified — confirm locally.

Temple Speciality

The temple's hilltop setting above the Malaprabha river, its Chalukyan-Rashtrakuta architecture, and its deep association with the Renuka-Parashurama legend make it one of the most distinctive Shakti shrines in North Karnataka.

Why Pilgrims Visit

Saundatti offers a major Shakti pilgrimage experience along with scenic views over the Malaprabha valley and the opportunity to witness one of the region's largest annual jatras.

History & Legend

The present temple atop Yellamma Gudi hill was constructed in 1514 CE by Bommappa Nayak, built in a style blending Chalukyan and Rashtrakuta architectural influences, overlooking the Malaprabha river valley below. The site has long been one of the most visited pilgrimage centers of North Karnataka, drawing devotees from Karnataka, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh. In recent decades, temple authorities and the state government have also worked to discourage the historical devadasi dedication practices once associated with the site.

Divine Significance

Yellamma is worshipped here as an incarnation of Renuka, mother of the sage-warrior Parashurama, and the temple is one of the most important Shakti pilgrimage sites in the Deccan region, revered especially by devotees seeking the goddess's protection and blessings.

Darshan Timings

Generally open through the day for darshan, approximately 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM (please confirm exact timings with the temple before visiting, as they vary by season and festival).

How To Reach

The nearest airport is Belagavi (Sambra) Airport, roughly 85 km away, with the nearest railway connections at Munavalli or Belagavi.

Where To Stay

Lodges and dharmashalas are available in Saundatti town near the base of the hill.

Local Food Nearby

North Karnataka specialties such as jolada rotti (jowar flatbread) and vegetarian thalis are widely available in Saundatti town.

Contact & Official Info

Visitors can contact the Renuka Yellamma Devi Temple administration/trust for darshan and festival information.

Location Map

View on Google Maps → (15.754, 75.16)