Sringeri Sharad Peetham Chikmagalur | History, Architecture & Timings

Sringeri Sharada Peetham, Chikmagalur Overview

Nestled amongst the backdrop of the exquisite Malnad Hills on the banks of River Tunga and established by Sri Adi Shankaracharya, Sringeri Sharada Peetham is named after the great Rishi Rishyashringa. The prime deity of the temple is Sharadhamba Devi. Adi Shankaracharya initially placed a sandalwood idol of the deity here which later developed into this huge beautiful place of worship and an important pilgrim place. Managed by Adi Shankara Matha and formed as a trust, numerous social services take place in the temple. This Matha is considered to be one of the Advaita centres of authority and holds control over the Yajur Veda and the Krishna Yajur Veda amongst Smarthas who are the followers of the Advaita School.

This beautiful place showcases the past and the present through a beautiful architecture that it is blended in. In case you are planning a trip to Chikmagalur, do not forget to add this attraction to the must-visit places of the town. You are going to get a lot of peace away from the noise and monotonous routine to unwind and breathe.

History of Sringeri Sharad Peetham

In the ancient traditional sources of the Shankara Vijaya, the Sringeri Matha is mentioned. Legend has it that twelve years were spent by Sri Shankaracharya at this place. It is believed that before Sri Shankara left for the North, he appointed Viswarupa, who was his disciple, to succeed him with the spiritual title of Sureshvaracharya. Ever since the 8th century, the Sringeri Matha has been recording history. Sri Guru Charitra, which was a 15th century Marathi work, comprises of the lineage of gurus of this matha right up to Vidyaranya.

Another famous legend says that one day while Adi Shankaracharya was roaming around the banks of the Tunga River he spotted an unusual sight of a cobra spreading its hood to protect a pregnant frog against the sunlight. Seeing the kindness of the cobra towards his natural enemy, he was besieged and decided to build a temple on this unique yet pure land. The scenic town of Sringeri has some legends and historical temples to boast about primarily why the Sringeri Sharada Peetha is celebrated here. This place, also known as Dakshinamnaya Sringeri Sharada Peetam, is one of the famous tourist attractions in Chikmagalur worth a visit.

Architecture of Sringeri Sharad Peetham

Sringeri Sharada Peetham has been constructed in the Dravidian style of architecture in different phases. Built in the shape of a square, the temple also has the main entrance. It is a three-storied tower with a porch standing on a tower structure without any pillars. These structures have single stories built within them. The glorious temple has small complexes constructed inside to serve its needs. The main idol is a gold statue which is placed on a throne in a seated position. The stone and wooden works in the temple make the craftsmanship exceptional to look at. There is also a learning centre for Vedic studies constructed near the temple complex.

Sringeri Sharad Peetham Festivals

Every year for 11 days, the Navratri festival is celebrated in the temple with Shathachandi Homa Poornahuti which takes place on the day of Mahanavmi. A special Puja also takes place at the Sri Sharada shrine. An offering is also conducted for Sri Sharadambal on Vaisaka Krishna Prathipath Mahabhishekam. A Deepotsava is organized in the Sri Sharada Shrine on Karthika Poornima Day. Lalitha Panchami too is celebrated along with a special Puja which is performed on the Magha Shukla Panchami to Sri Sharadamba by the Jagadguru. Also, a special Puja takes place on both Magha Krishna Dwithiya and Magha Trithiya.

Best Time To Visit Sringeri Sharada Peetham

The ideal time to visit the temple is from October to April since the climate is perfect to explore and visit the place.

How To Reach Sringeri Sharada Peetham

The Sringeri Sharada Peetham is very accessible. The nearest airport is the one situated in Mangalore and Shimoga. The nearest railway station is the one situated in Kadur. From most of the places in Karnataka to Sringeri, there are a lot of bus services available.