Padutirupathi Venkataramana Temple, Karkala stands one among the various ancient temples that belong to the community of Gowda Saraswath Brahmin who have their own history of about 550 years. This shrine has been constructed in an ancient style that attracts thousands of visitors round the year. It is situated at a distance of about fifty kilometer from the city of Mangalore. Popularly, this temple is known as ‘Padutirupati’. The term ‘Padu’ refers to west in native language of Karnataka. The rituals and rites performed in this temple are almost similar to that of Tirumala.

It is difficult to explain the divine glory and blessedness of Lord Venkataramana and Lord Srinivasa of this place. There is a common belief that any prayer that was offered with a resilient and strong belief is definitely fulfilled by this god. This temple is quite popular for its strong encouragement for all types of religious, cultural, social and academic activities that benefits people of both Karkala and outside this place. As an act of vision, the trustees of this temple inaugurated women’s education in the name of almighty, about ten decades back in Karkala.  Towards its social and academic causes, this temple has rendered helping hand to Vatsalya Seva Trust (a registered old age home), a super specialty hospital, Shree Venkataramana Goshala Trust (R), and Sri Bhuvanendra College by providing them with acres of precious temple land on lease. The last ten years, there has been remarkable changes in that took place in this temple that displays volumes of glory and eminence of this Kshetra and its God.

History

Padutirupathi Venkataramana temple of Karkala was constructed by Karkala Goud Saraswat Brahmins. These people migrated from the city of Goa following the invasion of Goa by Portuguese as they couldn’t able to bear their torture. The history of this temple dates back to 14th century when Jain Bhairarasa Odeyars were ruling Karkala and its surrounding places. Jain Odeyars donated a land to these Gaud Saraswat Brahmins to live a peaceful life. They also supplied them with agricultural land in order to help them to earn their own bread. Tantris, Puraniks and Joishys were the three main priests of their community who were existing since 14 th century. However the correct date and time of installation of this temple is not known as there were no supporting documents or any written statements during this period.

The installation ceremony is the major attraction of this temple. When Gaud Saraswath Brahmin came and established them in Pandya Nagari, they bought all their household items and articles including the idol of God Venkataramana. Immadi Bhairava, a Jain King offered a piece of land to construct a temple for God Shree Venkataramana during 1450 AD. This temple was later renovated during 1699-1700. After 2 years of renovating the temple, they also installed Lord Ganapathi, Lord Lakshmi, Lord Garuda and Lord Mukyaprana. There was a gradual increase in the number of devotees visiting this temple because of the holy environment and faith surrounding this temple.

Best Time to Visit

The main festival of this temple is Vanabhojana. During this time, the Utsava idols were taken for procession and they organize a festival in a place called Bhuvanendra College. The Idol of the God is placed facing the direction of Tirupati as a symbolic representation of Hermit’s wishes. This festival takes place between the months of November and December. Annually they celebrate Rathotsava, a six day festival in the name of Lord Srinivasa during the months of April and May.

How to Reach

By Train

Udipi is the major railway station situated close to Padutirupathi Venkataramana temple.

By Bus

Karkala has got good connectivity by road from both Mangalore and Bangalore. Most of the cities in Karnataka are well connected with Karkala.

By Air

The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport which is at the distance of about 70 km.