Some of the villages in Karnataka are the most picturesque. Varanga in the Udupi district is one such village. The place is best known for its Jain temples.
The most prominent amongst them include the Kere Basadi and the Neminath Basadi. The temples make it a prominent stop on the Jain pilgrim circuit.
Read: Top 10 Must Visit Jain Monuments In Karnataka
Quick Facts About Varanga
- Distances from major cities:
- Karkala – 24km
- Manipal – 34km
- Udupi – 40km
- Mangaluru – 79km
- Best time to visit: October to March
Must See Attractions In Varanga
Kere Basadi – The Lake Temple
The Kere Basadi has a history dating back over 850 years. It is dedicated to the Jain Lord Parshwanatha. The temple is built as a four-faced symmetrical structure. Thus, it is also known as a Chaturmukha Basadi.
The temple can be approached only by boat and hence, the moniker of the Lake Temple. A ticket for the 100m boat ride costs only Rs 10.
Parshwanatha Basadi
The Parshwanatha Basadi is dedicated to Lord Parshwanath, the 23rd Tirthankara. It stands surrounded by water lilies in the lake and like the other Jain basadi, is designed as a Chaturmukha Basadi.
The images of the Jain deities installed in the temple face the north, east, west and south. All of these deities, the Parshwanatha, Ananthanatha, Shanthinatha and Neminatha are sculpted in the Kayotsarga posture. An image of the Goddess Padmavathi is also installed inside the temple.
Read: Shravanabelagola – The Land of Lord Gomatheeswara
Neminatha Basadi
Neminatha Basadi is also known as the Hiré Basadi. This temple stands across the Parshwanatha Basadi and is dedicated to Nemishwara. It is still functional and a number of religious rituals are conducted here.
The temple faces the east and has two main entrances carved from granite stone. The east-side entrance opens up to a large porch and leads to the inner courtyard.
Other features that make the temple stand out are majestic elephant balustrades, a tall metallic deepasthamba, an impressive granite entranceway and a carved scene of two elephants garlanding a diety. The temple is over 1200 years old but it still preserves its antique look.
The Lake
Set against a lush green backdrop, the lake surrounding the temple is a picture of exquisite beauty. Water lilies cover the surface while freshwater fish, turtles and other forms of aquatic life live underwater. While you’re taking a boat ride across the lake, don’t forget to feed the fish.
How To Reach Varanga
By Air
At a distance of 73km, the Mangalore Airport is the closest airport to Varanga. Buses ply regularly between Mangalore and Varanga but you could also hire private transportation.
By Rail
The Udupi railway station is about 39km away from Varanga. The hour-long journey can be completed by bus or private transportation.
By Road
Varanga is well connected to nearby towns by the 169A highway. You could hire private a taxi or avail bus services to commute.
Also See
- The Jain Saint – Bahubali
- Temples in Karnataka
- Mahamastakabhisheka-Celebrating the Lord’s Glory
- Mahamastakabhisheka History – The Origin Legend of the Grand Celebration