- Deity
- Nandikeshwara (Shiva's attendant forces)
- Main festival
- Makara Sankranti (Hasara and Sedi)
- Distance from Udupi
- About 26 km
- Distance from Kundapura
- About 8 km
What to see
The wooden figures are carved from jackfruit wood (halasu mara), which grows widely in the surrounding forests. Most show soldiers in battle dress, some with raised weapons, and each carries a name from local lore. They are repainted from time to time to keep the colours strong; records mention a restoration in 1970 and fresh painting in 2007.
Some believe the figures recall a battle fought in the 17th century, but there is no firm evidence for this. The temple itself follows the style of other old shrines along the Karnataka coast.
Legends
One story links the site to Parashurama. During a long drought, the sage Agastya performed a yajna to bring rain, a demon called Asurakumbha tried to disrupt it, and Bheema killed the demon with a sword given by Lord Ganesha.
Another story concerns the Alupa dynasty, who ruled parts of coastal Karnataka for centuries. Facing an attack, a king sought help from a sage, and Shiva sent his army under Nandi to defeat the invaders. In gratitude, the king built this temple to Shiva's host. Barkur was once ringed by many temples, and only a handful are still in active worship.
Festivals
The busiest time is Makara Sankranti in January, when the annual Hasara and Sedi rituals take place and villagers from across the area gather.
How to reach
The temple lies about 2 km from Saibrakatte, around 8 km from Kundapura and roughly 26 km from Udupi. Udupi and Kundapura are on the Konkan Railway, and taxis or local buses cover the last stretch. We can add the temple to a coastal Karnataka trip that includes Udupi and Barkur.
Also nearby
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