Somanath Temple near Mangalore in Karnataka

Somanatha Temple, located near Mangalore in Karnataka, is a very ancient temple and is also popular as one of the 12 sacred Shiva Kshetras. Dedicated to Hindu God Shiva, the temple is also known Rudrapada Kshetra, and is also an important temple for perform Shradh and Tarpan rituals dedicated to the dead. The temple is around 13 km south of Mangalore.

Legend has it that the temple was built by a relative of demon King Ravana, named Kharasura. Thus the temple exists from the Ramayana period.

Pandavas is believed to have visited the temple. A lake near the temple was created by Bhimasena, the second of the Pandava brothers.

Scenic beauty

 

Somanatha Temple is situated on the banks of Arabian Sea and is built on an elevated spot and some parts of the temple are in the form of a fort. Another highlight is the beautiful view of the sunset from the temple.

Opening and Closing time of the temple:

5:00 AM to 1:00 PM
5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

To Reach

Someshwara is around 13 km from Mangalore and there are frequent buses from the city center.

Nearest major railways station is Mangalore Railway Station. Local trains stop at Ullala Railway Station, which is just one km from the temple.