Anegudde Vinayaka Temple

Anegudde Vinayaka Temple is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha located on a small hillock at Kumbashi in Kundapura Taluk, Udupi District, Karnataka. Situated about 9 km south of Kundapura along National Highway 66, it is one of the seven Mukti Sthalas of coastal Karnataka. The temple enshrines a standing black stone idol of Vinayaka and is known for its serene forested setting, elephant-related legend, and large devotee footfall.

Visitors can expect a temple complex set atop a low forested hillock accessed by stone steps, with a main sanctum housing a standing black stone idol of Lord Vinayaka. The surroundings include smaller shrines, a temple pond, prasad counters and shops selling offerings. The atmosphere is devotional with regular poojas, abhishekas and chanting. Visitors can explore the courtyard, view traditional temple architecture, and enjoy views of the surrounding village and highway from the hilltop.

The temple is associated with a legend that sage Agastya performed penance here to prevent drought, and an elephant (Ane) was created to help, giving the place the name Anegudde (elephant hill). The standing form of Ganesha is said to have blessed the sage. The temple is counted among the seven Mukti Sthalas created by Lord Parashurama along the coastal belt of Karnataka.

The temple is a major pilgrimage centre for devotees of Lord Ganesha in coastal Karnataka and is revered as one of the seven Mukti Sthalas of Parashurama Kshetra. It plays a central role in local religious life, with large gatherings during Ganesha Chaturthi, Sankashti Chaturthi and annual car festival, and is known for fulfilling vows related to new ventures and travel.