Kukke Sri Subrahmanya Temple
One of India's most important Subrahmanya (Kartikeya) shrines, on the Kumaradhara River at Kukke Subramanya, nationally renowned for Ashlesha Bali and Sarpa Samskara rituals performed for relief from sarpa dosha.
Photos of Kukke Sri Subrahmanya Temple
History & Significance
History & Origin
Tradition holds Kukke Subramanya to be one of seven sacred sites established by sage Parashurama, and connects it to the legend of the serpent king Vasuki taking refuge here from Garuda, as well as to Kartikeya's victory over the demons Tarakasura and Shurapadma at the nearby peak of Kumara Parvata.
Religious & Cultural Significance
The temple is one of the foremost pilgrimage centres in Karnataka for serpent worship, drawing devotees from across South India specifically for Ashlesha Bali and Sarpa Samskara rites believed to remove sarpa dosha.
Architecture
The temple complex is built in traditional Karnataka temple style with a prominent gopura; pilgrims traditionally perform a ritual bath in the Kumaradhara river and the Girivalase circumambulation of Kumara Parvata as part of their visit.
Traditions
Key observances include Champa Shashti (Subrahmanya Shashti) and Nagara Panchami, alongside the regularly performed Ashlesha Bali and Sarpa Samskara rituals.
Temple Timings
- Morning
- 5:00 AM - 1:30 PM
- Evening
- 3:30 PM - 9:00 PM
General darshan from 7:00 AM; temple closed 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Festivals & Events
- Champa Shashti (Subrahmanya Shashti)
- Nagara Panchami
Facilities
- Annadana (free meals)
- Pilgrim accommodation / choultry
Location
- Address
- Kukke Shri Subrahmanya Temple, Subrahmanya Post, Kadaba Taluk, Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka 574238
- Area
- Subrahmanya
- City
- Subrahmanya
- Taluk
- Kadaba
- District
- Dakshina Kannada
- State
- Karnataka
- PIN Code
- 574238