Veerabhadreshwara Temple is dedicated to an avatar of Lord Shiva- Veerabhadra. According to mythology, Veerabhadra was created from the wrath of Lord Rudra after his wife, Goddess Sati self-immolated during the great Yagna in the palace of her father King Daksha.
The temple is located near the Kalhatti Falls, a few kilometres from Tarikere, in the Chikmagalur district.
Quick Facts About Veerabhadreshwara Temple, Tarikere
- Main Deity: Lord Veerbhadreshwara (Lord Shiva)
- Best Time To Visit: March-April (during the temple festival)
- Entry Fee: Free
Veerabhadreshwara Temple,Tarikere – An Overview
In tune with the location of most of the temples of Lord Shiva and his avatars, the Veerabhadreshwara Temple also stands on a pristine landscape near Kalhattipura, around 20 km south of Tarikere town in the Chikmagalur and about 10 km from Kemmannagundi. The temple stands quaint and mystic against the backdrop of the gorgeous Kalhatti Falls.
The metallic idols of Lord Veerabhadreshwara and Goddess Bhadrakali rest inside an ancient cave carved out between gigantic rocks. The entrance of this ancient temple is skirted with interesting stone carvings of three elephants. The sculptures of the deities as well as the indigenous art displayed on the rock carvings, are a must-see.
One must cross a small and shallow pool of water from the Kalhatti Falls to reach the temple. The raw and untampered nature of the temple, untouched by the artistic and scientific hands of men, lends the Veerabhadreshwara Temple a cabalistic and spiritual appeal. Devotees throng this temple, seeking wealth, knowledge, salvation, and relief from chronic ailments.
According to Hindu mythology the revered Vedic sage, a noted recluse, and an influential scholar, Sage Agastya, bred his cloistered ashram here.
Veerabhadreshwara Temple – History
Being an unusual construction not much is known about the history and inception of the Veerabhadreshwara Temple except for the confirmed fact that it was established during the reign of the Vijayanagara period. It is believed that the cave shrine was built during the reign of Krishna Deva Raya, the sixth ruler of the Sangama Dynasty in the Vijayanagara Empire.
Annual Festival Of The Temple
The Veerabhadreshwara Temple holds a 3-day festival every year between March and April. Pilgrims may like to visit the temple during the festival.
Things To Do In And Around Veerabhadreshwara Temple
Visit Kalhatti Falls
A devotional visit to the Veerabhadreshwara Temple can be followed by a day of fun and exploration at the famous picnic spot near Kalhatti Falls.
The jaw-dropping milky waterfall is surrounded by mesmerizing valleys and gardens that make for both a sublime and exhilarating experience.
The water cascades from Chandra Drona Hill from a height of 122 km, falling right in front of the Veerabhadreshwara Temple. Do not forget to drench yourself in the water, which is believed to have medicinal properties due to the fact that the waterfall gushes down through several herbs and medicinal plants.
Trekking
The area is a hot favourite among trekkers. Adventure freaks in great numbers participate in trekking expeditions to the adjoining hills and mountains, relishing the panoramic views of the beaming valleys.
How to Reach Veerabhadreshwara Temple, Tarikere
By Rail
Tarikere Railway Junction is the nearest railway station (33 km from the temple). One can take a cab from the railway station to the temple.
By Air
Mangalore is the nearest airport. Regular cabs are available from the airport.
By Road
Private vehicles can also be hired from Bangalore (245 km) and Mangalore (180 km) to reach the destination.