Kalaseshwara Temple

Kalaseshwara Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the town of Kalasa on the banks of the Bhadra River in Chikkamagaluru district, Karnataka. Situated in the Western Ghats, it is a prominent pilgrimage centre and known for its traditional South Indian architecture, stone carvings and serene riverside setting. The temple attracts devotees and visitors throughout the year, especially during festivals and the winter pilgrimage season.

Visitors can expect a traditional South Indian temple complex situated on the banks of the Bhadra River in the Western Ghats. The temple features stone architecture, a sanctum dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Kalaseshwara, pillared halls and a temple courtyard. The surroundings include the river, small shops selling offerings, and a quiet town setting. Visitors can observe daily rituals, explore the temple interiors and exterior, and experience a pilgrimage atmosphere.

Kalaseshwara Temple is an ancient shrine traditionally associated with legends in the Skanda Purana and Sage Agastya. The temple exhibits South Indian architectural style with subsequent renovations over centuries and has long served as the principal religious centre of the Kalasa region on the Bhadra River.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva as Kalaseshwara, the temple is a major Shaivite pilgrimage centre in the Malnad region. It is revered by devotees, observes festivals such as Maha Shivaratri, and forms part of the pilgrimage circuit along with Sringeri and Horanadu temples in Chikkamagaluru district.