Kolankal Mahaganapathi Temple, also known as Kolanakallu, is located near Bidkalkatte in Kundapura Taluk, Udupi District, Karnataka. The temple is situated in a calm rural and natural environment and is about 36 kilometres from Udupi.
The place Kolankal is also known as Kolanakallu. The name is derived from two Kannada words: “Kola”, meaning pond, and “Kallu”, meaning stone. The name refers to the unique natural pond formed on the rock near the temple, which remains filled with water throughout the year.
The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Ganesha, worshipped here as Shree Mahaganapathi. He is revered as the remover of obstacles and the giver of wisdom, success, prosperity, and auspicious beginnings. Devotees strongly believe that sincere prayers offered at this temple help in overcoming difficulties and delays in life.
The temple is built on a large natural rock, which is considered sacred. Devotees must climb approximately 50 stone steps to reach the sanctum.The structure of the temple is simple and blends naturally with the rocky terrain and surrounding greenery. A remarkable feature of the temple is the pond located adjacent to the rock, which never dries up even during peak summer, making it a rare natural and spiritual wonder.
The exact age of the Kolankal Mahaganapathi Temple is not clearly recorded. However, it is believed to be several centuries old, with its origins linked to the ancient Barkur Samsthana. This indicates that worship at this sacred place has been continuing since royal and historical times.
Kolankal, also known as Kolanakallu, has strong historical connections with the Barkur region, which was once an important administrative and cultural centre. The temple gained importance due to a divine event during the reign of a legendary king, after which the place became a prominent centre of worship for Lord Ganesha among the local communities.
According to legend, when King Bhootaala Pandiyan, the ruler of the Barkur Samsthana, was constructing an artificial lake for the welfare of his kingdom, a piece of stone suddenly flew out from the lake and landed on a rock at Kolankal (Kolanakallu). This stone is believed to have divinely established itself as Lord Mahaganapathi. Recognising this as a divine sign, the king and his people began worshipping the stone as Lord Ganesha. Over time, a temple was built around the sacred rock, and the place became a powerful Mahaganapathi Kshetra. The pond that never dries up is believed to be a sign of Lord Ganesha’s continuous blessings.
Kolankal Mahaganapathi Temple is believed to be highly powerful for removing obstacles and ensuring success in education, career, business, and new ventures. Ganesh Chaturthi is the main festival celebrated here, along with Sankashti Chaturthi and other auspicious days. Devotees commonly offer coconut, modakam, and flowers, and many visit the temple before starting important life events.
