Sri Guru Narasimha Temple, Saligrama

The presiding deity, Guru Narasimha Swamy, is considered highly powerful and spiritually captivating. The Lord faces west and is depicted with two hands, holding a Chakra in the right hand and a Shankha in the left. A beautifully carved Prabhavali adorns the Deity from behind, enhancing the divine aura of the sanctum.

This temple is very ancient and is mentioned in puranas such as the Padma Purana and the Skanda Purana.

Unlike many other temples where Lord Sri Narasimha is seen with Lakshmi Devi, this temple is unique because the Lord is worshipped without Lakshmi Devi.

The village got its name Saligrama, because Sri Guru Narasimha, was carved from saligrama shila.

Suddenly, something unexpected occurred—the earth began to tremble with loud thunder. All the animals and birds in the forest were thrown into panic, scattering in all directions in search of safety and shelter. The revered sages, then approached Narada Muni, seeking his protection.

Suddenly, a divine proclamation (Akashavani) revealed that the Deity of Lord Narasimha, seated in the Yogananda posture and worshipped by Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva, was located between the sacred Shanka and Chakra Tirthas, beneath an Ashwatha tree.

The same divya vani instructed Narada Muni to install the Deity. As per the instruction, Narada Muni searched for the Deity and installed the Deity between Shanka and Chakra Tirtha.

Lord Ganapathi appeared in Bhattacharya’s dream in a ten-armed form, instructing him to reinstall Lord Yogananda Narasimha and declaring Narasimha as both Guru and kula devata for the Brahmins of the fourteen villages. These communities, known as Koota Brahmins, continue this tradition with deep devotion.

Moved by the rare sight of elephants and lions living peacefully together, Bhattacharya named the place “Nirvairya Sthala” (abode without enmity). This harmony is reflected in the Saligrama temple, where Ganapathi and Lord Narasimha are worshipped; the presiding deity faces west, holding the chakra and conch.

The temple layout follows a classic structure with a simple entrance leading into a calm and serene courtyard, guiding devotees toward the Garbha Griha (sanctum). The sanctum houses Lord Guru Narasimha, seated in a Yoga Dhyan posture, radiating a calm yet powerful presence. The Deity is adorned with a Prabhavali (ornamental arch), enhancing the divine aura within the sanctum.

On Ganesh Chaturthi, a sacred ritual involving 120 coconut homas is conducted in honor of Lord Mahaganapathi. The temple also observes Rathaotsava during the Uttarayana Sankranti period, marking an important seasonal transition.

During Navaratri, Chandika Parayana is performed with great devotion for Goddess Durga Parameshwari. Other significant celebrations include Hanuman Jayanti and Narasimha Jayanti, both observed with special puja and rituals.

Evening: 4.00 PM to 8.00 PM

Sri Krishna Mutt: This a famous Sri Krishna temple in Udupi, where Lord Krishna gives darshan to His devotees through Kanakana kindi. It is located 25 km away from Saligrama.

Anegudde Vinayaka Temple: It is a famous hillock Ganesha Temple located in Kumbashi. Visiting this temple, Lord Ganesha blesses His devotees with success. It is located 10 km away from Saligrama.

Kollur Mookambika Temple: It is a revered spiritual site nestled in the lush Western Ghats, where Goddess Mookambika is worshipped in her powerful and benevolent form, attracting devotees seeking blessings, wisdom, and inner peace.

Also, you can travel by air, rail or road by using following routes:

By Air: The nearest airport to reach the temple is Mangalore International Airport, located approximately 82 km away.

By Rail: The nearest railway station is Kundapur Railway Station, located 17.5 km away. Another nearest railway station is in Udupi Junction, located 25.5 km away from the temple.

By Road: Saligrama town has good road network, and it is connected to nearby towns and cities.