Kollur Mookambika temple stands in the Udupi district of Karnataka and ranks among South India’s most important pilgrimage sites. The temple honours Goddess Mookambika, believed to embody the powers of Mahalakshmi, Kali, and Saraswati combined.
The idol inside the sanctum is crafted from five metals—gold, silver, iron, copper, and lead—placed above an ancient jyotirlinga (Shiva symbol). According to temple history, Adi Shankaracharya installed the idol after a spiritual event where Goddess Mookambika merged into the jyotirlinga. The temple architecture and spiritual energy make it a significant stop on the pilgrimage circuit.
Kollur Mookambika Temple Timings and Darshan
Understanding the daily schedule helps you plan when to visit and which time slot works best for your journey.
Daily Temple Timings
The temple opens every day from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM. However, darshan (viewing the deity) is available in specific slots throughout the day because priests perform rituals and pujas during certain hours.
Darshan Time Slots Throughout the Day
Morning darshan (5:00 AM – 11:30 AM):
- 5:00 AM to 7:15 AM: Early morning darshan before main puja
- 7:15 AM to 7:45 AM: Darshan halted; Danta Dhavan Mangala Aarti and Panchamrutha Abhishekam rituals performed
- 7:45 AM to 11:30 AM: Darshan resumes
Midday break (11:30 AM – 3:00 PM):
- 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM: Temple closed for afternoon puja preparations
- 12:00 PM to 12:20 PM: Brief darshan slot
- 12:20 PM to 12:45 PM: Temple closed again
- 12:45 PM to 1:30 PM: Final morning darshan slot
Afternoon and evening (3:00 PM – 9:00 PM):
- 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM: Darshan only (no sevas or rituals)
- 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM: Darshan resumes; select sevas performed
- 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM: Darshan continues; evening aarti at 6:30 PM (Pradosha Pooja)
Tips For the Best Temple Visit
- The 6:30 PM evening aarti is considered especially spiritual; plan to be present if possible.
- Early morning (5:00 AM – 7:00 AM) has fewer crowds if you prefer a quiet darshan.
- Timings change during festivals like Navarathri, Sivaratri, and Mahashivaratri, so verify in advance.
- Allow 30–45 minutes of waiting time, especially on weekends and festival days.
Dress code
- Men: White dhoti and upper cloth preferred; avoid shirts, vests, shorts, lungis, hats.
- Women: Any decent, traditional outfit; avoid very short or revealing clothes.
- Footwear is not allowed inside the inner sanctum.
How to Reach Kollur Mookambika Temple
The temple sits in a small town accessible by road from nearby cities and towns.
By Bus
If you’re coming from Udupi (the main transit hub), the journey takes about 1.5 hours. You can book a Udupi to Kollur Bus.
From larger cities:
- From Mangalore: About 1.5–2 hours by road; take a bus to Udupi first, then Kollur.
- From Bangalore: Overnight journey via Mangalore or Hassan; approximately 5–6 hours.
For comfortable intercity travel to reach Udupi (which is the gateway to Kollur), check Udupi bus booking options.
By Train
- Udupi railway station is the nearest major station, about 40 km away.
- From there, local buses or autos take you to Kollur (around 1–1.5 hours).
Local Transport In Kollur
- Autos and taxis are available near the temple for short distances.
- Most accommodation (guest houses) sit within walking distance of the temple.
Accommodation Near Kollur Mookambika Temple
The temple administration runs several affordable guest houses within steps of the temple, plus private options nearby.
Temple-Managed Guest Houses
Lalithamba Guest House
- Distance from temple: Walking distance
- Room types: AC deluxe, AC non-deluxe, non-AC deluxe, non-AC rooms, large dormitories
- Price: ₹200–₹600 per room per night
- Contact: 93939-39510 or 93939-39150
Jagadambika Guest House
- Distance from temple: Walking distance
- Room types: Non-AC three-bed, non-AC two-bed deluxe
- Price: ₹250–₹500 per night
- Contact: Same number as above
Matha Chatra Guest House
- Distance from temple: Walking distance
- Room types: Non-AC three-bed rooms
- Price: ₹200 per night
Sowparnika Guest House
- Distance from temple: Walking distance
- Room types: Non-AC three-bed rooms
- Price: ₹300 per night
Booking Information
- Temple rooms are typically booked 90 days in advance only.
- No cancellations or date changes are allowed once booked.
- Rooms are allotted for 24 hours from check-in.
- Always carry a photo ID (Aadhar, passport, or driving license) at check-in.
- On peak festival days and holidays, rooms fill up quickly; call ahead to check availability.
Private Hotels and Homestays
- Mahalakshmi Residency: Premium option near the temple with better amenities.
- Narayani and Thrivikrama lodges: Mid-range homestays with reasonable rates (₹850–₹1,500).
Book private options if temple guest houses are full or if you prefer more facilities.
Temple Contact Details
Official Information
Address:
- Sri Mookambika Temple
- Kollur, Kundapura Taluk
- Udupi District, Karnataka
- PIN: 576 220
Phone Numbers:
- Main: 93939-39150
- Alternate: 93939-39510
Email / Website:
Check the official Mookambika temple website or social media for updates on special pujas, sevas, and festival schedules.
Services and Sevas Available
- Pooja sevas: Book online or through the office for personalized rituals.
- Annadhanam (free meal): Often available after main aaratis.
- Special rituals: Rudra Abhisheka, Chandi Homam, Sahasranama Archana offered on select days.
Best Time to Visit Kollur Mookambika Temple
Different seasons offer different experiences and crowds.
Ideal Seasons
- September–May (first week): Pleasant weather, clear mornings, fewer heavy rains. Best for overall comfort.
- Monsoon (June–August): Lush greenery, lighter crowds, but occasional heavy rains.
- Peak festivals: Navarathri (Sept–Oct), Makar Sankranti (Jan), Sivaratri (Feb–March). Plan ahead; accommodation fills fast.
Crowd Patterns
- Weekdays: Fewer crowds; easier darshan and accommodation booking.
- Weekends and holidays: Busier; expect 45–60 minute waits for darshan.
- Festival days: Extremely crowded; visit early morning or late evening.
Nearby Attractions and Activities
If you have time beyond temple darshan, explore nearby sights.
Close To the Temple
- St. Mary’s Church (a few km away): Historical church with architectural interest.
- Kundapura town: Markets, small beaches, local eateries (20 minutes away).
Day Trips from Kollur
- Malpe Beach (Udupi): Clean, scenic beach about 40 km away.
- Krishna Temple in Udupi: Another major pilgrimage site (40 km away).
- Jomom Temple and various waterfalls in the surrounding Western Ghats region.
Local Restaurants and Food
- Simple vegetarian meals near the temple cater to pilgrims.
- Udupi cuisine (dosas, idlis, rice dishes) is popular in the area.
- Street food: Chikhalwali, bajji, vada, local sweets.
Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Reach a day or two before your preferred darshan time to adjust and rest.
- Book accommodation well in advance, especially during festivals.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and a light jacket or shawl for early mornings.
- Keep small cash for temple offerings and local purchases; some places don’t accept cards.
- Stay hydrated and carry water; the temple area has limited food options during midday closures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the main Kollur Mookambika temple timings?
Ans: Temple opens at 5:00 AM and closes at 9:00 PM daily. Darshan is available in specific slots throughout the day, with breaks for pujas and rituals.
Q: Can I visit the temple on any day?
Ans: Yes, the temple is open every day. However, timings change during major festivals, so verify before planning a visit.
Q: Is there accommodation inside or near the temple?
Ans: Yes, four temple-managed guest houses within walking distance offer budget-friendly rooms (₹200–₹600 per night). Book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Q: How far is Kollur from Udupi?
Ans: Kollur is about 40 km from Udupi and takes 1.5 hours by road. Regular bus services connect the two towns.
Q: When is the best time to visit Kollur temple?
Ans: September to May (first week) offers the best weather. Avoid monsoon heavy rainfall. Plan around major festivals if you want a spiritual gathering experience.
Q: What is the dress code for temple darshan?
Ans: Men should wear white dhoti and upper cloth. Women should wear traditional, decent outfits. Footwear is not allowed inside the inner sanctum.
Q: Are female or solo travellers safe visiting this temple?
Ans: Yes, Kollur is a safe, established pilgrimage site with dedicated women-only darshan areas and strong local infrastructure for pilgrims.
Q: Can I book a room online?
Ans: Temple rooms are booked directly by calling the administration (93939-39510 or 93939-39150). Online booking systems for temple accommodation are limited, so call ahead.
Q: What is the special significance of the 6:30 PM aarti?
Ans: The evening Pradosha Pooja and Panchamrita Abhisheka at 6:30 PM is considered especially auspicious. Many devotees specifically plan their visit for this time.
Q: How do I reach Kollur if I’m coming from another city?
Ans: Most visitors take a bus to Udupi first, then board a Udupi to Kollur bus. Alternatively, book through Zingbus routes connecting major cities to Udupi, then continue to Kollur by local transport.
Plan Your Spiritual Journey to Kollur
Kollur Mookambika temple offers a deeply spiritual experience combined with comfortable pilgrimage infrastructure. Whether you visit for a day trip or an overnight stay, the temple’s flexible darshan timings and accessible accommodation make it a doable journey.Book your travel in advance, respect the temple customs, and approach the experience with an open heart.
When you’re ready to travel to nearby Udupi or other gateway cities, use zingbus routes for comfortable, reliable bus travel at affordable fares. Safe travels and blessings on your pilgrimage.
