Sringeri Sharada Peetham Temple, Karnataka
Sringeri Sharada Peetham, located in the serene Western Ghats of Karnataka, is one of the
most sacred and respected spiritual centers in India. Established by Adi Shankaracharya in the
8th century, it is the first among the four Amnaya Peethams representing Advaita Vedanta
philosophy.
The temple is dedicated to Goddess Sharada Devi, the goddess of wisdom, learning, and
knowledge. Devotees from across India visit Sringeri Sharada Peetham seeking intellectual
clarity, spiritual growth, academic success, and inner peace. The calm atmosphere created by
the Tunga River and lush greenery enhances the divine experience
Namaste 🙏 नमस्ते
Secure your visit • अपनी यात्रा सुरक्षित करें
Historical background and Architectural splendor
Sringeri Sharada Peetham was founded by Adi Shankaracharya after he witnessed a cobra
protecting a frog near the Tunga River, symbolizing harmony and spiritual power. He chose this
divine spot to establish the first Advaita matha.
The Sharada Temple showcases classical South Indian architecture with finely carved pillars,
granite sculptures, and beautifully designed sanctums. The Vidyashankara Temple, combining
Hoysala, Chalukya, and Vijayanagara styles, stands as a masterpiece of Indian temple
architecture.
The matha complex also includes ancient libraries, meditation halls, and residences of the
Jagadgurus, preserving centuries of spiritual wisdom
Religious Significance
Sringeri is regarded as the seat of Saraswati (Sharada Devi) on earth. Students, scholars, teachers, and spiritual seekers offer prayers here for success in education and life. The Peetham plays a vital role in preserving Advaita Vedanta teachings. The Jagadguru Shankaracharya of Sringeri continues to guide devotees through discourses, rituals, and spiritual leadership.
Festival and Celebrations
Major festivals celebrated with grandeur include:
- Navaratri Sharada Puja
- Vasantotsava
- Mahashivaratri
- Guru Purnima
- Adi Shankara Jayanti
During Navaratri, Goddess Sharada is worshipped with special alankaras, Vedic chanting, cultural programs, and spiritual discourses, attracting thousands of devotees.
Surroundings area & attractions
- Pagla Baba Ashram : A tranquil ashram where devotees can engage in prayers and experience spiritual solace.
- Shyam Kund – Sacred water tank for ritual bathing
- Mandawa Fort – A historic fort showcasing Shekhawati architecture
- Sikar Town – Known for temples and local markets
- Salasar Balaji Temple – A famous Hanuman shrine frequently visited along with Khatu
FAQ
It is located in Chikkamagaluru district, Karnataka.
Adi Shankaracharya founded it in the 8th century.
Sringeri is famous for Advaita Vedanta teachings and Goddess Sharada Devi.
October to March offers pleasant climate for darshan.
No, darshan is free for all devotees.
It combines multiple architectural styles uniquely.
Yes, Sringeri is highly revered for educational blessings.
Yes, matha guest houses and hotels are available.
Restricted inside temple premises.
Mostly in Sanskrit and Kannada.
Visitor information
Darshan Timings:
-
- Morning: 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Evening: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Aarti & Special Pujas:
- Maha-Mangalarati: 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 7:30 PM
- Chandramoulishwara Puja (by Jagadguru): 9:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Normal Days)
- Guru Darshanam: Around 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM daily
Visitor information
Darshan Timings:
-
- Morning: 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Evening: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Aarti & Special Pujas:
- Maha-Mangalarati: 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 7:30 PM
- Chandramoulishwara Puja (by Jagadguru): 9:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Normal Days)
- Guru Darshanam: Around 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM daily
Peak Crowd Days at Sringeri Temple
-
Crowd Days – Sringeri Temple body { font-family: Arial, sans-serif; } .crowd-days { max-width: 360px; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.4; background: #fafafa; padding: 12px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid #e0e0e0; } /* Main heading now h4 */ .crowd-days > h4 { font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 8px; font-weight: 600; } .crowd-level { margin-bottom: 10px; } .crowd-level h4 { font-size: 13px; margin-bottom: 4px; } .crowd-level ul { padding-left: 18px; margin: 0; } .crowd-level ul li { font-size: 12.5px; margin-bottom: 3px; } /* Color hints */ .extreme h4 { color: #c62828; } .moderate h4 { color: #ef6c00; } .less h4 { color: #2e7d32; }Crowd Days at Sringeri Temple
🔴 Extremely Crowded Days
- Navaratri festival
- Guru Purnima
- Adi Shankara Jayanti
- Long weekends
🟠 Moderately Crowded Days
- Mondays & Fridays
- Public holidays
🟢 Relatively Less Crowded Days
- Tuesday to Thursday
- Non-festival months
Address Link
Connectivity:
-
Sringeri is well connected by road, rail, and air.
✈️ By Air
Nearest airport: Mangalore Airport – approx 100 km
🚆 By Train
Nearest railway station: Udupi or Shimoga
🚍 By Road
Well connected to Chikkamagaluru, Udupi, Bangalore, and Mangalore
🚗 Local Transport
Buses, taxis, and private vehicles are easily available.
Travel Tip: Roads are scenic but hilly. Drive carefully during monsoons.