Nellitheertha, a wonderful underground Shiva Temple :
Nellitheertha, wonderful underground Shiva Cave Temple, nestled near Mangalore in Karnataka's Dakshina Kannada District, is a revered Shiva shrine that's equal parts spiritual haven and natural wonder. The temple's highlight is its natural cave with a narrow entrance forcing devotees to crawl 300-400 meters to reach a lake and a self-formed Shiva Lingam (Somanatheshwara). The cave's mud is believed to have healing properties for skin ailments, treated as Prasad.
The key features of it's underground location is that the temple features a natural cave about 200 meters long, forcing visitors to crawl on their knees to reach the inner sanctum & inside the cave, there's a naturally formed Shiva Lingam in front of a lake, considered highly sacred. The cave's mud is believed to have healing properties for skin ailments and is treated as Prasad. Nagappa Kere, a sacred pond north of the temple where devotees bathe before entering the cave. There seasonal opening of this holy cave and it is open only from October to April, allowing it to "rejuvenate" the rest of the year.
The Nellitheertha a wonderful underground Shiva Cave Temple pics must be stunning because this ancient Shiva shrine in Karnataka's Dakshina Kannada District is a breathtaking blend of spirituality and natural beauty..
Location and Accessibility :
Located about 17.2 km from Mangalore, Nellitheertha is easily accessible by air, train, and road. The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (13.5 km), and the Mangalore Railway Station connects to major Indian cities. By road, take the Moodabidri route via Gurupura and Kaikamba to reach Yedapadavu, then deviate towards Muchur.
Nellitheertha Temple History :
The history this holy underground temple dates back to 1487 CE and the temple has a rich history tied to the Chowta family of Tulu Nadu, who nurtured it as a religious and cultural hub. Mythology recounts Sage Jabali's penance here, beseeching Goddess Durga to vanquish demon Arunasura, leading to the goddess killing the demon at nearby Kateel.
The main deities and Features include Lord Shiva as Somanatheshwara, other Shrines like Maha Ganapati and Jabali Maharshi, Nagappa Kere, a sacred pond North of the temple where devotees bathe before entering the cave. Bhootas the temple honors spirits like Pili-Chamundi, Kshetrapala, associated with Shiva.
Timings and Festivals :
This underground holy cave temple remains open for pilgrims and visitors from the months of october to April between 5 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Annual Jaatre, a grand festival in late December, featuring processions, Rudrabhisheka, Rathotsava with great fervor & gaiety. It has high spiritual significance and is considered sacred for Shaivites; wish fulfillment within 48 days is believed possible. It has a stunning natural beauty bestowed with lush green surroundings and unique cave formation. This holy temple is Open to all beliefs, castes; bath in Nagappa Kere required before cave entry.
Visiting Tips :
Before entering Nellitheertha undergrond cave temple, visitors and devotees must need to adopt the tips which include wearing comfortable clothes for crawling in the cave, Carry towels; bath in Nagappa Kere is mandatory and respect cave rules. The temple remains closed for six months annually for "rejuvenation" and Plan visit between October-April when temple is open.
Accessibility :
Nellitheertha underground temple is located near Mangalore, Karnataka in India and it has multiple routes to reach from Mangalore, including via Moodabidri, Bajpe, or Kateel.
Reaching the Nellitheertha Cave Temple in Karnataka is relatively straightforward with multiple options as mentioned below :
By Air :
The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, about 40 km from the temple.
By Train :
Mangalore Railway Station connects to major Indian cities, serving as a convenient rail hub.
By Road :
One can go by road from Mangalore to this holy temple situated at a distance of 40 km via NH 169, passing through Kuppepadav & from Udupi it is about 50 km via Karkala and Moodbidri. The distance from Banglore to this temple is about 360 km via Hassan, Sakleshpur, and Mangalore. The other alternate routes include Mangalore → Gurupura → Kaikamba → Yedapadavu → Nellitheertha (8 km from Yedapadavu) or via Kateel (5 km from Kateel). Local Transport like direct buses available from Mangalore Central Bus Stand and Taxis cost around ₹250-300 from Mangalore.
Final thought :
The Nellitheertha Cave Temple stands as a testament to nature's spirituality and Karnataka's rich cultural heritage. This underground Shiva shrine near Mangalore offers a unique blend of mythological significance, natural beauty, and healing traditions. A visit to Nellitheertha offers spiritual solace and a connection with nature's mystique, making it a memorable experience for devotees and travelers alike Would you like to know more about planning a trip or the temple's spiritual aspects The Nellitheertha Cave Temple remains open for pilgrims for *8 months* annually. It is open from *October to April* and remains closed for the other 4 months, allowing the cave to "rejuvenate" during this period.
As far as accommodations for devotees or visitors near Nellitheertha Cave Temple, is concerned, Mangalore offers various options since it's just 17.2 km away. There are many options like Manglore Hotels, many hotels in Kateel, Home stays and guests houses and resorts around. Nellitheertha or Manglore provide cozy experience.
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