13th Century Old Krishna Temple in Udupi (Known For a Sacred, Miraculous Idol )
- Ankita Ojha
- Jul 6
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 7
Hello, my fellow readers. I was on the journey to Karnataka. While my main aim was to visit only one Shiva temple in Udupi, while having a conversation with locals, I got to know about a 13th-century old Krishna temple in Udupi, Karnataka, where the idol of Kanha is in a child form. It is to be said that this famous temple has broken all old beliefs and unwanted traditions. The temple was built by a saint named Shri Madhvacharya, who was a Vaishnavite saint philosopher.
This was just a basic glimpse of this Krishna temple in Karnataka; continue reading till the end to uncover everything so that next time when you plan to visit here, you won’t find any difficulty. So let’s start…
The Famous Krishna Temple in Udupi, Karnataka
In this article, I am sharing my breathtaking experiences of visiting the Sri Krishna Matha temple in Udupi. This spiritual place is one of the famous temples in Udupi, commonly known for the Baal avatar of Shri Krishna. As all the temples in India or beyond have east-facing entrances, this temple has a west-facing entrance.
Interesting Facts ABout Sri Krishna Matha Temple in Udupi
It is to be said and believed that, before carving the temple, Shri Madhvacharya saw a storm at sea in which a lump of clay was floating (also known as "ship's ballast," used to balance the ship). After catching the clay, he found the idol of Baal Krishna in it. Then the story started, and a 13th-century old temple was built. Interesting, isn’t it? For me too.
I also got to know that before, the idol was crafted by a sculptor named Vishwakarma, and often worshipped by Rukmani (Krishna's beloved wife) in Dwarka. Isn’t it astonishing to know that we're living on the earth where God himself used to live? Lucky us.
On top of that, you must be thinking that there must be a reason for being west-facing, right? I too had this thought. But after having a quick talk with a local named Sumithra, she said that some believe that Shri Madhvacharya placed the idol in the east face, but after a few hours the idol itself turned to face west.
Another belief is that the idol faces west to receive the setting sun's rays, which fall directly on it during sunset, a time considered highly auspicious.
On the other hand, there's a heart-touching story of a devotee named Kanakadasa, who was a poet and fond of Lord Krishna. But due to his lower caste, he was restricted from entering inside this krishna temple in Karnataka. But still, he comes daily to meet Shri Krishna and sings beautiful bhakti songs and poems.
Looking after his pure love and devotion, a miracle took place. Especially for him, a few brick blocks broke, and holes were made for that devotee to see him clearly. These nine-hole screens are called Navagraha Kindi or Kanakana Kindi (in the name of the devotee).
Moreover, Shri Madhvacharya also instructed the creation of eight different monasteries surrounding the temple, which is called Ashta Mathagalu. This was purposely done to ensure the smooth continuity of the temple and its traditions or so-called protection.
Major Festival Highlights in Sri Krishna Matha Temple
I also found that every two years, a festival is celebrated named the Paryaya Festival in this famous temple in Udupi. Another major festival is organized at the time of Krishna Janmashtami and Saptotsava, a chariot festival in January, where wooden chariots (Rathas) are pulled across Car Street with vibrant chanting of "Hare Krishna," bhajan, and mantras, surrounded with lighting lamps.
Timing of This Oldest Temple of Lord Krishna:
4:30 AM-9:30 PM
How to Reach Sri Krishna Matha Temple in Udupi?
Address: Temple Car St, Sri Krishna Temple Complex, Thenkpete, Maruthi Veethika, Udupi, Karnataka, 576101.
By Car: Udupi is well connected by NH66. You can easily drive to the temple as it's located right in Car Street, Udupi city.
By Train: Udupi Railway Station is just 2–3 km from the temple. Take an auto or cab from the station to reach it.
By Flight: The nearest airport is Mangalore Airport (IXE), about 60 km away. From there, hire a taxi or take a bus to Udupi.
You can use the MAP for directions. (Make sure to charge your phone and download the map before head over the place, as network slowly weakens after 3PM)
IMPORTANT NOTE: For men, dhotis and full-length trousers are only allowed; no lungis or Bermuda shorts are allowed inside. One must remove the upper cloth before entering inside the temple. On the other hand, women must wear sarees and salwar suits; no short sleeves or short dresses or jeans are allowed.
It’s a Wrap!
While I planned only to visit the Shiva temple in Udupi, I never knew I would find Lord Krishna temple in Udupi where a bal krishna avatar was waiting for me. Trust me, the lush forest greenery, natural fresh air, dim lights, less crowd, temple bells, fragrance of dhoop, and chanting of mantras make the place so peaceful that I wanted to settle down there forever. If you ever plan to visit Karnataka, do plan for when there is a time for festivals, as on those days, energy and the surroundings are positively different.
Therefore, this is all I have for you today, but you can still uncover more stories here.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which temple is famous for Krishna in Udupi?
Sri Krishna Matha is the most famous Krishna temple in Udupi. You can see the special Bala Krishna idol through a small window called Kanakana Kindi.
Which is the oldest temple in Udupi?
Sri Krishna Matha is one of the oldest temples in Udupi. It was built by Madhvacharya in the 13th century.
How many years old is Udupi Krishna Temple?
The temple is about 700 years old. It was built around 1285 AD.
What sri Krishna Matha temple timings?
The temple opens from 4:30 AM to 1 PM and again from 4 PM to 9:30 PM. It is open every day and free to enter.
Wow! Never knew India has this incredible temple in karnataka. Thanks Ankita for sharing.