Kamalashile: A sacred blend of myth, nature, and spiritual power | Fusion - WeRIndia

Nestled in the lush forests of Karnataka, Kamalashile is a serene village in the Udupi district.

Just 35 km from Kundapura, it draws pilgrims and nature lovers alike.

Surrounded by hills and thick evergreen forests, Kamalashile offers a peaceful retreat.

At the heart of the village lies the ancient Sri Brahmi Durgaparameshwari Temple.

The Goddess is worshipped here in the form of a Kamalashile, a lotus-shaped stone Linga.

This Linga is believed to represent the combined power of Goddess Mahakali and Maha Lakshmi.

This makes Kamalashile one of the few temples where divine feminine energies converge in a single form.

According to legend, a dancer named Pingala once angered Goddess Parvathi. Cursed to become ugly, she begged for forgiveness.

The Goddess then promised to appear on Earth to destroy the demon Khararatasura. She told Pingala to chant mantras by the Suparshwa cave near the Kubja river.

Pleased with her devotion, the Goddess appeared as the sacred Linga at the river’s confluence. She named the river Kubja, after Pingala.

Moreover, the Goddess sent Pingala to Mathura to seek Lord Krishna’s blessings.

There, she regained her beauty and was freed from the curse. The Kubja river continues to flood the land each year, symbolically cleansing the Linga.

The Kamalashile Cave, near the temple, adds to its spiritual charm. It is believed that Maharishi Shankaracharya meditated here.

The cave offers a tranquil atmosphere for prayer and reflection.

Visitors also enjoy the scenic confluence of the Kubja and Souparnika rivers. The region’s natural beauty, along with its deep spiritual energy, creates a unique experience.

The temple is over a thousand years old and showcases ancient architecture.

Unique rituals and vibrant festivals draw thousands of devotees annually.

Entry is free, but special pujas cost between ₹100 and ₹500. Devotees often donate as per their will.

Kamalashile is not just a temple; it’s a sacred journey through myth, nature, and divine energy.

Its spiritual significance, along with its breathtaking surroundings, makes it a must-visit destination in Karnataka.

Image Credit: Chaithra C Nayak, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Image Reference: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Brahmi_Sri_Durgaparameshwari_Temple_1,_Kamalashile.jpg