Swastika Agastyeshwara Temple is located in Kirimanjeshwara, a village in the Byndoor taluk of Udupi district, Karnataka. The temple is situated near the Arabian Sea’s coastal region, surrounded by lush greenery, making it a serene spiritual destination.
The temple’s connection to Sage Agastya and Lord Shiva makes it a sacred pilgrimage site for Shiva devotees.
The temple is unique due to its Swastika-shaped design, a sacred symbol in Hinduism representing auspiciousness and balance. The temple’s layout follows traditional South Indian architecture, featuring a Garbhagriha (sanctum), mandapa (hall), and an entrance adorned with intricate carvings.
The temple is believed to have been established by Sage Agastya, one of the revered sages of Hindu mythology. According to legend, when Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were getting married, all celestial beings gathered at Mount Kailash, disturbing the Earth’s balance. To restore stability, Lord Shiva instructed Sage Agastya to travel south. While traveling, Agastya reached Kirimanjeshwara and, enchanted by the location, decided to install a Shiva Linga here.
It is said that when Sage Agastya placed his Kamandala (sacred water pot) on the ground, a holy pond, Kamandala Teertha, was formed. He later created another sacred pond, Agasthya Teertha, and performed rituals here. Lord Shiva, pleased with the sage’s devotion, appeared before him and granted his wish to reside in the Linga in the forms of Shanmuka, Gomati, Parvati, and Yogini. Lord Shiva also declared that those who worship at this temple would be blessed with good fortune and prosperity.
The temple celebrates numerous Hindu festivals with grandeur and devotion, including Maha Shivaratri, which are observed with night-long prayers and rituals honoring Lord Shiva. Karthika Masa, during which devotees light lamps throughout the temple, creating a divine atmosphere.Nag Panchami, dedicated to the worship of the serpent deity significant in the temple’s traditions, and the Annual Rathotsava (Chariot Festival), where the deity is taken in a grand procession on a decorated chariot, attracting thousands of devotees.
Devotees believe that worshiping here removes obstacles, grants prosperity, and brings peace.
