Kadiyali Mahishamardini Temple in Udupi in Karnataka

Kadiyali Mahishamardini Temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is located around 2 km from Udupi Town in Karnataka. Kadiyali temple is believed to have been built more than 1200 years ago and is noted for its unique murti worshipped in the temple. The murti of Durga worshiped in the Kadiyali Mahishamardini Temple is in standing posture – Mother Goddess Durga as Mahishamardini holds the Prayaga Chakra (the discus) and in Her upper left hand, the Shanka (conch shell) in her upper right hand. She is piercing the head of Mahishaasura, the buffalo-head demon, who has fallen at Her feet, with the Trishul (Trident) held in Her lower right hand. She is pulling the tail of Mahishaasura with Her lower left hand.

Kadiyali Mahishamardini Temple Story

Legend has it that the long ago the present spot where Kadiyali Mahishamardini Temple is located was thick forest. There was a small water tank in the thick forest which was frequented by saints and gandharvas. A youth who was carrying the murti of Mahishamardini to a distant place, rested near the water tank and placed the murti nearby it.

When the youth wanted to continue with the journey, the murti could not be removed from the spot. He tried numerous ways and finally a group of sages led by Kanava Rish reached the spot. The Rishis immediately realized the presence of Mother Goddess Shakti. They decided to consecrate the murti there.

The murti was consecrated by Saint Kanava. The tank which is now a well can be found inside the sanctum sanctorum in the temple.

Kadiyali Mahishamardini Temple is quite similar to temples found in North Kerala and Mangalore.

Murti with Alankara

Festivals and Important Dates

Important date in the temple is Friday

Navratri is the most important festival in the temple. Annual Temple Festival is held from April 12 to April 18. Mesha Sankramana during the period is the most important festival.

Udupi Bus Station and Railway Station is around 2 km from the Temple.

Opening and Closing Time of Kadiyali Mahishamardini Temple

5:30 AM TO 1:00 PM
4:00 PM TO 9:00 PM

Fridays
5:30 AM To 1:00 PM
4:00 PM TO 11:30 PM

On special days
Temple will be open whole day and night.