Sringeri Sharada Peetham – Chikmagalur, Karnataka

Nestled amidst the scenic Western Ghats in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka, the Sringeri Sharada Peetham stands as one of the most revered spiritual and cultural centers of India. Established by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century, this ancient monastery is dedicated to Goddess Sharada, the embodiment of wisdom and learning. It serves as the southern Advaita Vedanta matha (monastic center), playing a pivotal role in preserving and propagating Vedic knowledge and the philosophy of non-dualism.

About the Temple 

Sringeri Sharada Peetham, located in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka, is one of the four cardinal Advaita Vedanta monasteries established by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century CE. It is dedicated to Goddess Sharada, the deity of wisdom and learning. Sringeri has been a major center for Vedic learning and spiritual knowledge for centuries.

Temple Description & Architecture

The Sringeri temple complex houses two prominent temples, each showcasing architectural brilliance and deep spiritual significance:

Sharadamba Temple

Originally built as a simple shrine by Adi Shankaracharya, it has since been transformed into a grand Dravidian-style temple.

The temple features a majestic gopuram (tower) with intricate carvings and a stunning golden idol of Goddess Sharada inside.

The temple is a major pilgrimage site for those seeking blessings for education and wisdom. Vidyashankara Temple

Built in 1338 CE, this temple is an architectural masterpiece, showcasing a fusion of Hoysala and Vijayanagara styles.

It features 12 zodiac pillars (Rashi Stambhas) aligned with the solar calendar, allowing sunlight to illuminate them sequentially throughout the year.

The temple is known for its stone-carved sculptures, depicting Hindu mythology and celestial beings.

Temple Speciality

First Peetham was established by Adi Shankaracharya in India, making it a historically and spiritually significant place.

Unique astrological significance – the Vidyashankara Temple’s pillars are designed to align with the sun’s movements.

Center for Vedic studies – the Peetham preserves and teaches ancient scriptures and Sanskrit texts.

Spiritual & Cultural Hub – scholars, saints, and devotees from across the world visit Sringeri for knowledge and enlightenment.

Temple Location & Address

Address:

Sri Sringeri Sharada Peetham, Sringeri, Chikmagalur District, Karnataka 577139, India.

Coordinates (Latitude & Longitude):

13.4161° N, 75.2527° E

Temple Timings

Morning: 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Evening: 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM

Temple Sevas (Offerings & Rituals)

Sringeri Sharada Peetham offers several sevas (ritual services) for devotees, including:

Archana & Abhisheka – Special prayers and offerings to the deity.

Chandramouleshwara Pooja – A special prayer performed daily by the Jagadguru of Sringeri Peetham.

Vedic Homams & Special Poojas – Rituals conducted for prosperity, health, and spiritual well-being.

Annadanam (Free Meals Service) – Devotees are offered free meals at the temple’s dining hall.

Seva bookings can be done through the official Sringeri Sharada Peetham website.

Travel Information

Nearest Railway Stations

Udupi Railway Station (80 km) – Well-connected to major Indian cities.

Shimoga Railway Station (105 km) – Another good railway access point.

Nearest Airport

Mangalore International Airport (110 km) – The nearest airport with flights connecting to major domestic and international destinations.

Nearest Bus Station

Sringeri Bus Stand – Regular Karnataka State Road Transport (KSRTC) and private buses connect Sringeri to other cities.

Bus Routes to Sringeri

From Bangalore: KSRTC and private buses operate daily. (~8-hour journey)

From Mangalore: Frequent buses available. (~4-hour journey)

From Udupi: Regular bus services (~2.5-hour journey)

Train Routes to Sringeri

Devotees traveling by train should reach Udupi or Shimoga Railway Station and then take a bus or taxi to Sringeri.

Airways to Sringeri

From Mangalore International Airport, taxis and buses are available to reach Sringeri.

Facilities Available at Sringeri

Food Facilities

Free meals (Annadanam) provided at Sri Bharathi Theertha Prasada dining hall:

Lunch: 12:15 PM to 2:30 PM

Dinner: 7:15 PM to 8:30 PM

Stay Facilities

The Peetham provides accommodation for pilgrims at affordable prices. Guest houses include:

Sri Shankara Kripa

Sri Sharada Kripa

Yatri Nivas

Sri Bharathi Tirtha Vihara

Sri Shankara Sadana

Sri Srinivasa Kripa (TTD Guest House)

Rooms can be booked through the temple’s official website or on arrival.

Nearby Places to Visit

Nearby Cities

Chikmagalur (~90 km)

Mangalore (~110 km)

Udupi (~80 km)

Shimoga (~105 km)

Nearby Temples & Tourist Attractions

Horanadu Annapoorneshwari Temple (~80 km) – Dedicated to Goddess Annapoorneshwari.

Kollur Mookambika Temple (~120 km) – Famous for worshippers of Goddess Parvati.

Agumbe (~30 km) – A beautiful hill station with mesmerizing sunsets and trekking trails.

Kudremukh National Park (~90 km) – A must-visit for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts.

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary (~85 km) – A haven for wildlife lovers.

Best Time to Visit

October to March – Pleasant weather, best for temple visits and sightseeing.

Avoid Monsoons (June to September) – Heavy rains make travel difficult.

Shopping & Local Specialties

Visitors to Sringeri can purchase:

Sandalwood artifacts

Religious souvenirs & idols

Handmade incense sticks

Traditional jewelry

Books on Advaita Vedanta & Hindu scriptures

The monastery follows an unbroken lineage of Jagadgurus, spiritual leaders who have preserved and propagated the teachings of Sanatana Dharma and Advaita Vedanta. Sringeri Sharada Peetham stands as a timeless beacon of spiritual wisdom and Vedic tradition. It continues to uphold the principles of Advaita Vedanta while nurturing a legacy of knowledge, devotion, and Dharma. With its profound historical significance, architectural grandeur, and tranquil surroundings, Sringeri remains not just a pilgrimage site but a sanctuary for seekers of truth and enlightenment.