Mallikarjuna Temple / Mahanikareshwara Temple - History, Timings & Entry Fee

At a distance of 1 Km from Sringeri Bus Stand, Sri Mallikarjuna Temple (also called as Mahanikareshwara Temple) is situated on top of the Mallappa Hill.

The large black-stone Shiva Linga worshipped in this temple is believed to be swayambhu (self manifested). The Linga stands over the site of sage Vibhandaka's disappearance from the mortal world and called Malahanikareswara. Bhavani Devi temple located in the same compound is believed to be built by Sri Sachidananda Swamiji. Sri Abhinava Nrisimha Bharati (1600-1623) drew a figure of Lord Ganesha with a piece of turmeric on a pillar. This image is called Kambada Ganapati.

The temple can be reached through 150 well laid steps. Early mornings or late evenings are ideal to be at the top. The Rathotsava festival celebrated on the next day of Mahashivaratri is very famous. On Kartika Poornima day Deepothsavam is celebrated in a grand scale.

Timings: 6 AM - 2 PM & 5 - 9 PM