Sri Amrutheshwara Swamy Temple is located in Amruthapura village, about 9 km from Tarikere in Chikmagalur district, Karnataka. The main deities worshipped in the temple are Mahadev Shiva and Goddess Sharada (Goddess Saraswati).
Sri Amrutheshwara Swamy Temple History
During the reign of Hoysala king Veera Ballala II, this region was under his rule. The temple was constructed in memory of his loyal commander (Dandanayaka), Amithaiyya Nayaka.
At that time, local chieftains called Gurjaras ruled parts of Shivamogga, while the Hoysalas governed their capital. Conflicts arose between the Hoysalas and the Gurjaras, leading to four battles in which the Hoysalas emerged victorious.
However, during their return journey, the commander Amithaiyya Nayaka was deceitfully killed. The king, deeply saddened by the loss of his loyal general, decided to build a temple in his honor.
Since Amithaiyya Nayaka was a devotee of Lord Shiva, the king brought a sacred Saligrama Linga from the Gandaki River in Nepal and installed it here. The Linga was named Amrutheshwara, adapting the name of the commander, and the village was named Amruthapura.
As the Hoysalas followed Jainism but were patrons of art and education, they also installed Goddess Sharada (the deity of knowledge) beside the temple.
Daily Rituals and Worship
Every morning, a special Rudrabhisheka is performed to Lord Amrutheshwara using 52 types of herbs. Abhisheka is also performed for Goddess Sharada.
Devotees visit the temple to offer prayers and seek fulfillment of their wishes. Common practices include:
- Akshara Abhyasa (initiation into learning for children)
- Offering sarees (Harake Seere)
- Filling ritual offerings (Madalakki)
After their wishes are fulfilled, devotees offer:
- Abhisheka to Lord Shiva
- Sarees and offerings to Goddess Sharada
Children are initiated into education here, while adults practice “Omkara” chanting to improve knowledge and memory.
Unique Features of the Temple
- A sacred lamp (Nanda Deepa) has been continuously lit for over 200 years, blessed during the time of Nalvadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar.
- The temple has 52 pillars, known as Panchaloha Stambhas, each uniquely designed.
- There are 46 beautifully carved tower structures (Bhuvaneshwaris).
- Intricate carvings depict the Shiva Tandava dance in stunning detail.
Sculptures and Architecture
Inside the temple:
- Navrang hall features Sapta Matrikas, Ganesha, and other deities
- At the entrance: Rati and Manmatha
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Other deities include:
- Veerabhadra
- Subramanya
- Vishnu
- Kalabhairava
- Serpent maidens (Naga Kanyakas)
- There are also two hero stones (Veeragallu)
Outside:
- Around 252 small towers (mini gopurams)
- A sculpture of Kadlekalu Basavanna
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Carvings of:
- Mahabharata (left side)
- Ramayana (right side)
The temple is surrounded by a fort-like structure with beautifully carved stone sculptures.
Festivals and Special Occasions
- The temple is over 825 years old
- Amruthotsava is celebrated during Sankranti every year
- Maha Shivaratri: Special poojas, abhisheka, and free food distribution (Annadanam)
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Special rituals are also held during:
- Shravan month
- Dasara
- Dhanurmasa
Daily Dasoha (free meal service) is provided to devotees.
Temple Timings
- Opens: 6:00 AM
- Closes: 6:00 PM
Daily Rituals:
- Morning: Rudrabhisheka, Bilvarchane
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For Goddess Sharada:
- Kumkumarchane
- Akshara Abhyasa
- Omkara practice
- Mangalarati