Chandramouleshwara Temple Udupi, India | Complete Itinerary 2024

Planning a trip to Chandramouleshwara Temple Udupi? Our itinerary plan would like to welcome you. We don’t want to waste your valuable time thinking about what to do with this trip. There is all the information you need about Chandramouleshwara Temple Udupi in this article.

Overview of Chandramouleshwara Temple

• • Location: Udupi, Karnataka, India
  • Religion: Hinduism
  • Deity: Lord Shiva
  • Construction: 7th or 8th century 
  • Architectural style: Black granite stone, unique sculptures, built below ground level
  • Significance: Considered one of the oldest temples in Udupi, the legend of the moon god, is customary to visit before Krishna Mutt.
  • Total Budget: Rs. 5,500

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History of Chandramouleshwara Temple Udupi

A popular legend associates the temple with the moon god, Chandra. During Chandra’s penance at this location, the curse of Daksha Prajapati was broken. Pleased with Chandra’s devotion, Shiva appeared before him, lifted the curse, and earned the name Chandramouleeshwara (“adorned with the moon”). 

A temple was then built to commemorate this event. Another belief suggests the place was called Sivalli or Siva-belli earlier, signifying its association with Lord Shiva. 

Attractions at Chandramouleshwara Temple Udupi

• • Architecture: The temple is a marvel of architecture, thought to have been constructed in the seventh or eighth century. The intricate carvings and black granite stones used in the construction are a sight to behold.
  • Historical Significance: There is a stone inscription in the temple that dates back to the 11th or 12th century. While the exact origin of the temple remains shrouded in mystery, the inscription is a testament to its long and rich history.
  • Two Shivalingas: The temple houses two Shivalingas or representations of the Hindu god Shiva.
  • Unique Location: The Chandramouleshwara Temple is built slightly below ground level, adding to the mystique of the place. There is a local legend that says the temple was built on an ancient lake bed.
  • Peaceful Atmosphere: Unlike the bustling Krishna Temple nearby, the Chandramouleshwara Temple offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere. This makes it a perfect place to relax and reflect.
  • Tradition: It is a tradition among devotees to visit the Chandramouleshwara Temple before going to the Krishna Temple.

Best Time to Visit Chandramouleshwara Temple Udupi

• • Pleasant weather: October to March is considered the best time to visit Udupi in general, with moderate temperatures and little rain. This is the peak season, so expect larger crowds at the temple.
  • Fewer crowds: If you prefer to avoid the crowds, you can visit during the monsoon season (June to September). However, keep in mind that the temple may be closed occasionally due to heavy rain.

Here are some additional factors to consider:

• • Temple timings: The Chandramouleshwara Temple is typically open from dawn to dusk. However, it is always best to check with the temple authorities before your visit to confirm the timing.
  • Festivals: There are several festivals celebrated throughout the year in Udupi. If you are interested in experiencing a temple festival, you can plan your trip accordingly.

2-Day Itinerary Chandramouleshwara Temple Udupi

Day 1: Chandramouleshwara Temple

• • Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Chandramouleshwara Temple, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Udupi. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its intricate carvings and Dravidian architecture.
  • Afternoon: After visiting the temple, head to the Krishna Mutt, a beautiful temple complex with a rich history. The Krishna Mutt is one of the eight mathas (monasteries) established by Madhvacharya, a 13th-century saint. The complex includes a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, a museum, and a library.
  • Evening: Enjoy a stroll along the banks of the sacred Sita River and witness the sunset. The Sita River is considered holy by Hindus, and it is a popular spot for pilgrims to take a dip. Sunsets over the river are beautiful.

Day 2: Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary 

• • Morning: If you are interested in wildlife, you can visit the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary on day 2. The sanctuary is home to a variety of birds and animals, including deer, wild boars, and peacocks.
  • Afternoon: In the afternoon, head to Malpe Beach for some relaxation and water activities. Malpe Beach is a popular beach destination in Udupi. The beach is known for its beautiful white sand and clear waters. You can swim, sunbathe, or try out some water sports activities like jet skiing or parasailing.
  • Evening: In the evening, indulge in some delicious Udupi cuisine and explore the local markets. Udupi is known for its vegetarian cuisine, which is based on the use of lentils, rice, and vegetables. Some of the popular Udupi dishes include masala dosa, paneer puli, and uddinam vada. After dinner, you can explore the local markets for souvenirs and handicrafts.

Total Budget (2 Days, 1 person)

• • Transportation: Rs. 2,000
  • Accommodation: Rs. 1,000 per night (Rs. 2,000 for 2 nights)
  • Food: Rs. 500 per day (Rs. 1,000 for 2 days)
  • Miscellaneous: Rs. 500
  • Total Estimated Budget: Rs. 5,500

How to Reach Chandramouleshwara Temple Udupi

By Train:

• • The nearest railway station to Udupi is Udupi Railway Station (UDIPI). Trains are readily available from major cities in India to Udupi.
  • You can reach the temple by auto-rickshaw or taxi from the railway station. The cost of the ride would be around INR 100 – 150.

By Bus:

• • Buses connect Udupi with major cities in Karnataka and nearby states. You can take a bus to the Udupi bus stand and then hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach the temple. The cost of the ride would be around INR 50 – 100.

By Car:

• • Udupi is around 402 km from Bangalore and 56 km from Mangalore. If you are coming from Bangalore, you can take the NH 75 highway. If you are coming from Mangalore, you can take the NH 66 highway.

FAQ’s Of Chandramouleshwara Temple Udupi

What are the times for visiting the temple?

Specific timings are best confirmed upon arrival in Udupi, as temple hours can vary slightly. However, it’s generally open throughout the day.

Is there a dress code for visiting the temple?

While there’s no strict dress code, it’s advisable to dress modestly as a sign of respect. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees.

Is the Chandramouleshwara Temple open to the public?

Yes, the Chandramouleshwara Temple is open to visitors.

What are some unique features of the temple?

The temple is built slightly below ground level, and there is a tradition of offering oil lamps to Lord Chandramouleshwara. There are also inscriptions dating back to the 11th or 12th century, hinting at the skilled craftsmanship involved in the temple’s construction.

When was the Chandramouleshwara Temple built?

The exact date is unknown, but the architecture suggests it was built sometime in the 7th or 8th century AD, possibly after the nearby Anantheshwara Temple.