Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara Temple

Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara Temple in Dakshin Kannada district, Karnataka, is one of the most visited temples in Karnataka, drawing over 1 lakh pilgrims daily. Dedicated to Lord Manjunatha (a form of Shiva), the temple is unique in that it is administered by a Jain family — the Heggade dynasty — while the priests are Shaiva Vaishnavas. This remarkable interfaith administration symbolises the unity of all communities.

The current temple complex features extensive stone constructions completed in the 20th century, including mandapas, corridors, and a large courtyard with the 39-foot monolithic Bahubali statue carved from a single granite boulder. The temple provides free meals (annadana) to all pilgrims — over 8,000 people daily — funded entirely by the Dharmasthala Trust. The Heggade family also runs a highly regarded medical college and hospital.