Kukke Shri Subrahmanya Temple, located in the lush Western Ghats of Karnataka, is a renowned Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Subrahmanya (Kartikeya), revered as the Lord of Serpents. This sacred temple is famous for the Sarpa Dosha Nivarana Pooja, attracting devotees seeking relief from serpent-related afflictions. Nestled beside the Kumaradhara River and surrounded by dense forests, the temple offers a peaceful and spiritually uplifting experience.
History & Mythology of Kukke Shri Subrahmanya Temple
As per ancient Hindu mythology, Lord Subrahmanya vanquished the demon Tarakasura and his allies, later offering refuge to the divine serpent Vasuki in this sacred region. The temple is mentioned in several scriptures for its powerful spiritual aura and is especially revered for the removal of Sarpa Dosha (serpent curses), ensuring prosperity and peace for devotees. For more mythological history Read more
Best Time to Visit Kukke Shri Subrahmanya Temple
October to March – Ideal weather for temple visits.
Subrahmanya Shashti (Nov–Dec) – Celebrates Lord Subrahmanya’s triumph over evil with grandeur.
Makara Sankranti (January) – A spiritually powerful time for darshan and rituals.
Avoid Monsoons (June–Sept) – Heavy rainfall in the Ghats can affect travel plans.
How to Reach Kukke Shri Subrahmanya Temple
✈️ By Air
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (115 km)
From the airport, take a taxi (₹2,500–₹3,500) or a direct KSRTC bus.
🚆 By Train
Nearest Station: Subrahmanya Road (12 km)
Hire an auto or taxi (₹200–₹500) for temple access.
🚌🚗 By Road
Frequent KSRTC buses from Mangalore, Bangalore, Mysore, and Udupi.
Self-drive: Picturesque drive through the Western Ghats (caution during rains).
Estimated Travel Cost (Per Person)
| Departure City | Travel Mode | Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Mangalore (115 km) | Bus/Taxi | ₹500 – ₹3,500 |
| Bangalore (280 km) | Bus/Train/Taxi | ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 |
| Mysore (210 km) | Bus/Train | ₹1,200 – ₹4,500 |
| Chennai (620 km) | Train/Flight+Taxi | ₹2,500 – ₹8,000 |
| Mumbai (900 km) | Flight+Taxi/Train | ₹3,500 – ₹12,000 |
Temple Timings & Rituals → Timings and Poojas at Kukke Shri Subrahmanya Temple
Timings: 5:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Key Poojas:
Sarpa Samskara Pooja (₹3,500+) – For Sarpa Dosha relief (advance booking required)
Ashlesha Bali Pooja – Performed on Ashlesha Nakshatra days
Here you can book the tickets for Ashlesha bali Pooja from official page – Tickets BookingKumara Pooja – Special offerings to Lord Subrahmanya
Darshan Time: 30–60 minutes in general queue; VIP darshan available
Entry: Free; poojas require tickets and bookings.
Nearby Attractions → Top Nearby Attractions Around Kukke Shri Subrahmanya Temple
Adi Subrahmanya Temple – An older shrine close to the main temple
Kumaradhara River – Holy dip before temple entry
Bisle Ghat Viewpoint – Stunning Western Ghats view
Dharmasthala Temple (60 km) – Dedicated to Lord Manjunatha
Recommended Trip Duration
1-Day Trip: Temple darshan and river holy bath
2-Day Trip: Add Dharmasthala and Bisle Ghat sightseeing
3-Day Trip: Includes treks and Mangalore city exploration
Accommodation & Food
🛏️ Stay Options
Budget: Temple guesthouses (₹500–₹1,500/night)
Mid-Range: Hotels nearby (₹2,000–₹4,000/night)
Luxury: Resorts in Coorg (90 km away.
Here are the offcial page of temple for accommodation bookings – Accomodation Booking
Food Recommendations
Temple Prasadam – Free or nominal cost
Local South Indian Meals – Idli, Dosa, Udupi-style thalis
Specialties: Puliyodarai (Tamarind rice), Payasam
Essential Travel Tips
- Pre-book poojas – Especially for Sarpa Samskara
- Carry cash – Limited digital options
- Traditional dress code – Men: dhoti, Women: saree/churidar
- Avoid weekends – High footfall
- Stay hydrated – Climate can be humid and tiring
Final Thoughts
Kukke Shri Subrahmanya Temple is more than a religious site—it’s a journey into deep spirituality and natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking divine blessings, relief from Sarpa Dosha, or a serene retreat in the Western Ghats, a visit here is truly fulfilling. Plan your spiritual trip today and embrace the sacred energy of Kukke Subrahmanya!
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