Situated
104 Kms from Mangalore is
Dharmasthala, the place of religious interest in the interior of Dakshina
Kannada. Dharmasthala is an outstanding example of religious and cultural
tolerance. The temple of lord Manjunatha here has Vaishnavite 'archakas' and is administered by Heggade, a Jain Trustee. Charity is a way of life here and is extended to all with no distinction of caste or creed.
PRIME ATTRACTIONS
Manjunatha Temple:
The Manjunatha Temple here attracts thousands of people all through the year. Every person who comes here irrespective of caste or creed is welcomed and given a free meal.
During 'Laksha Deepotsava', one lakh lamps are lit and literary and religious discourses are held.
Bahubali:
In the recent past, the 39th monolith of Bahubali was installed at Dharmasthala by the Heggade.
Karanje:
37 kms from Mangalore on the road to Dharmasthala is the holy place of Karanje, well known for its medieval Shiva temple. Situated on a hill 1,500 ft high, it commands a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
EXCURSIONS
Venur:
Venur 30kms from Dharmasthala, is famous for the Gomateshwara statue built in 1605 AD by an Ajila Prince.
Moodabidri:
Moodabidri, 23 kms from Venur described as Jaina Kashi, is known for the 18 bastis, the most famous of them being 'Savira Kambada Basti' (Basti with thousand pillars).
Built in 1430 AD, this basti has beautiful monolith columns and priceless collection of jewel-studded metal images of Jain Tirthankaras.
Jamalabad Fort:
About 6 kms north of Belthangadi, it was formerly called 'Narasimha Hangadi'. The present fort was built on the ruins of an old fort by Tipu Sultan in 1794 AD and he named it after his mother, Jamalbee.
HOW TO GET THERE
Air: Nearest airport is at Mangalore.
Rail: Mangalore is the nearest rail head.
Road: Mangalore is 75 kms from Dharamsthala.
A well developed network of roads connects the place to all the neighbouring areas.