A 12-foot elephant god has been guarding this hilltop for over a thousand years. You’ve probably driven past him without knowing it. Skip him, and you skip one of coastal Karnataka’s most powerful pilgrimage stops.
Welcome to Anegudde Vinayaka Temple, tucked into the quiet hillock of Kumbhashi in Udupi district. This is no ordinary shrine. The Anegudde Vinayaka Temple history traces back to a legend of sage Agasthya, a demon named Kumbhasura, and a sword blessed by Lord Ganesha himself, a story so vivid it gave the entire village its name.
Before you plan your visit, get the basics right: the Anegudde Vinayaka Temple timings, the exact Anegudde Vinayaka Temple location and address, the PIN code, and the current Anegudde Vinayaka Temple contact number. Know the Anegudde Vinayaka Temple distance from Udupi, the full directions, and the Anna Prasadam timings so you don’t miss a free meal after darshan. Can’t travel right now? The e-hundi facility lets you offer your prayers from anywhere.
Anegudde Vinayaka Temple Overview
Anegudde Vinayaka Temple sits atop a small hillock in Kumbhashi village, Udupi district, and is dedicated to Lord Ganesha in his Siddhi Vinayaka form. It is one of the seven Mukti Sthalas of coastal Karnataka, drawing pilgrims from across the state and beyond.
The shrine is known for its towering self-manifested idol and its calm, forested setting just off the Udupi-Kundapura highway. Families, solo devotees, and history lovers all find something worth the stop here.
Anegudde Vinayaka Temple Timings Today
The Anegudde Vinayaka temple timings generally run from early morning until late evening, with a short midday break for rituals. Most visitors plan around 6:00 AM to 8:30 PM, though the exact Anegudde Vinayaka temple schedule today can shift slightly during festivals.
It is a good idea to call ahead before a long drive, since seva bookings can affect the darshan window. Morning hours tend to be quieter and cooler for families with children or elderly members.
Meaning of Anegudde Name
“Anegudde” comes from two Kannada words: aane, meaning elephant, and gudde, meaning hillock. Together they describe the hill of the elephant-faced god, a name that has stuck for centuries.
Locals often simply call it “the hillock temple,” and the name reflects both the geography and the deity worshipped here.
History of Anegudde Vinayaka Temple
The Anegudde Vinayaka temple history stretches back well over a thousand years, tied closely to the founding legend of the surrounding village. Kumbhashi itself is named after events described in the temple’s origin story.
Understanding this history in Tamil, Kannada, or English versions online gives visitors a fuller picture of why this Mukti Sthala remains so revered today.
Legend of Sage Agasthya and Kumbhasura
According to local tradition, sage Agasthya once performed yajnas here to end a severe drought, but the demon Kumbhasura repeatedly disrupted the rituals. The conflict between the sage and the demon set the stage for divine intervention.
This legend is central to why Kumbhashi is counted among the sacred Mukti Sthalas of the region.
Bheemasena and Lord Ganesha Story
Lord Ganesha blessed Bheemasena, the Pandava prince, with a sword to defeat Kumbhasura. In Kannada, the word for sword is “asi,” and legend holds that Bheemasena’s slaying of the demon at this spot gave the village its name, Kumbhashi.
This story is one of the reasons devotees consider the temple especially powerful for removing obstacles.
Anegudde Vinayaka Idol and Sanctum
The sanctum houses a striking Swayambhu, or self-manifested, idol that differs from typical Ganesha depictions found elsewhere in India. Its scale and form make it one of the most recognisable Vinayaka idols in Karnataka.
Devotees often describe the darshan experience here as unusually moving, thanks to the idol’s imposing size and ornamentation.
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12-Foot Swayambhu Stone Idol
The main idol stands roughly 12 feet tall and takes a fuller elephant form rather than the more human-like Ganesha figures seen in many Tamil Nadu temples. It is worshipped as Swayambhu, meaning it is believed to have appeared on its own rather than being carved.
Gold Face and Silver Armour
Priests adorn the idol’s face in gold and cover the rest of the deity in ornate silver armour, with the upper hands raised in a blessing gesture and the lower hands pointing toward the ground. Temple authorities refresh this alankara periodically, making it a major visual highlight for first-time visitors.
Mukti Sthala and Parashurama Kshetra
Hindus recognize Kumbhashi as one of the seven Mukti Sthalas, also called Parashurama Kshetra, in coastal Karnataka. Devotees traditionally believe these sites grant spiritual liberation to sincere worshippers.
This status places Anegudde alongside other major pilgrimage points in the Tulunadu Sapthakshetra circuit, making it a common stop on longer coastal Karnataka pilgrimage routes.
Anegudde Temple Location in Kumbhashi
The Anegudde Vinayaka temple location is in Kumbhashi village, Kundapura taluk, Udupi district, right along National Highway 66 (formerly NH-17). This puts it directly on the main coastal route between Udupi and Kundapura.
Its roadside position on the Kumbhashi stretch makes it an easy addition to any coastal Karnataka road trip without a big detour.
Distance from Udupi, Mangalore, Kundapura
The Anegudde Vinayaka temple distance from nearby cities is manageable for a day trip, whether you are coming from Udupi, Mangalore, or Kundapura. Most travellers combine this stop with nearby temple visits.
Checking the distance from Udupi in advance helps with fuel and timing plans, especially if you are visiting multiple shrines in one day.
Distance Table from Nearby Cities
| Starting Point | Approximate Distance | Approx. Travel Time |
| Udupi to Anegudde Vinayaka Temple distance | 25 km | 40-50 minutes |
| Kundapura to Anegudde Vinayaka Temple distance | 9 km | 15-20 minutes |
| Mangalore to Anegudde Vinayaka Temple distance | 100 km | 2-2.5 hours |
| Kollur to Anegudde Vinayaka Temple distance | 30 km | 45-60 minutes |
How to Reach Anegudde Vinayaka Temple
Getting here is straightforward thanks to the temple’s location right on a national highway. Most pilgrims arrive by road, though air and rail options exist for longer-distance travellers.
Whichever mode you choose, the final stretch into Kumbhashi is well signposted from the highway.
By Air – Nearest Airport
Mangalore International Airport is the nearest airport, roughly 100 km away, with regular domestic and a few international connections. From there, taxis and buses run along NH66 toward Udupi and Kundapura.
By Train – Nearest Railway Station
Kundapura railway station, on the Konkan Railway line, is the closest station at about 9 km away. Udupi station is a slightly larger alternative with more frequent trains.
By Road – Bus and Taxi Options
State-run and private buses ply the Udupi-Kundapura route throughout the day and stop near Kumbhashi. Taxis and app-based cabs are also easy to arrange from Udupi, Mangalore, or Kundapura for door-to-door convenience.
Anegudde Temple Address and Pin Code
The Anegudde Vinayaka Temple address is: Sri Anegudde Vinayaka Temple, Kumbhashi, Kundapura Taluk, Udupi District, Karnataka. The PIN code for Kumbhashi is 576257.
Having the exact address and PIN code handy is useful for GPS navigation and for anyone posting or receiving mail related to temple bookings.
Anegudde Temple Contact Number
For seva bookings, accommodation queries, or general information, it is best to call ahead using the official Anegudde Vinayaka temple contact number listed on the temple’s website, anegudde.in, since listed numbers can change over time.
Confirming the current contact number before travelling avoids any last-minute confusion around darshan or seva slots.
Anna Prasadam Timings at Anegudde
The temple serves Anna Prasadam (free meals) to devotees, typically around midday and again in the evening. Anegudde Vinayaka temple Anna Prasadam timings can shift on festival days, so checking ahead is wise for larger groups.
Volunteers manage the prasadam hall efficiently even during peak pilgrim season, making it a comfortable stop for families travelling with children.
Seva and Pooja List
Anegudde offers a range of sevas for devotees seeking specific blessings, from simple archanas to elaborate rituals. Popular options include Tulabhara, Gana Homa, and Rangapuja.
Most sevas can be booked in person at the counter, though some are also available online in advance.
Tulabhara Seva Details
In Tulabhara, devotees offer items such as bananas, jaggery, or coconuts equal to their own body weight as an offering to Lord Ganesha. It is one of the most requested rituals at this temple.
E-Hundi Online Donation
The Anegudde Vinayaka temple e hundi facility lets devotees who cannot visit in person contribute donations online through the temple’s official website. This is a convenient option for NRIs and pilgrims from other states.
Best Time to Visit Anegudde Temple
The cooler months from November to February are ideal, avoiding both the coastal Karnataka humidity and the monsoon rains. Early mornings offer the most peaceful darshan experience year-round.
Festival periods bring larger crowds and more vibrant celebrations, so visit then if you want the full festive atmosphere, or avoid those dates if you prefer a quieter visit.
Major Festivals at Anegudde Vinayaka
Anegudde celebrates several festivals through the year, with Ganesh Chaturthi and the winter car festival drawing the biggest crowds. Monthly Sankashtahara Chaturthi observances also bring in regular devotees.
Planning around these dates can either maximise the festive experience or help you avoid the rush, depending on your preference.
Ganesh Chaturthi Celebration
Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with elaborate decorations, special abhishekams, and continuous prasadam distribution over several days. It is by far the busiest time of year at the temple.
Car Festival in December
The temple’s car festival, or brahmotsavam, is held in December-January and features a grand procession of the deity through the village on a decorated chariot. Devotees travel from across the region to take part.
Guest House and Stay Facilities
The temple trust maintains a guest house near the premises for pilgrims needing a place to rest, especially useful for those arriving from far away or attending multi-day rituals. Rooms are basic but clean and functional.
Additional budget lodges and homestays are available in nearby Kundapura and along the highway for travellers who prefer more amenities.
Temple Dress Code and Etiquette
The temple expects visitors to wear traditional, modest clothing and to remove their footwear before entering the sanctum area. Men should generally avoid wearing shorts, and women should wear sarees or salwar kameez.
Photography rules inside the sanctum can vary, so it is best to check with temple staff before taking pictures near the idol.
Nearby Temples to Visit
Anegudde’s location makes it easy to combine with several other major coastal Karnataka pilgrimage sites in a single trip.
Many devotees plan a circuit covering three or four temples across two to three days.
Kollur Mookambika Temple
Kollur Mookambika Temple, dedicated to Goddess Mookambika, is about 30 km away and is one of the most visited shrines in Karnataka. The scenic drive along the Sowparnika River adds to the appeal.
Udupi Krishna Temple
Udupi Krishna Temple, home to the famous Krishna Matha, lies around 25 km away and boasts a unique window-darshan tradition. Pilgrims often pair it with Anegudde on the same day trip.
Murudeshwar Temple
Murudeshwar Temple, featuring a massive Shiva statue overlooking the Arabian Sea, lies roughly 60 km north and makes for a striking coastal detour.
Local Food Near Anegudde Temple
The temple’s Anna Prasadam offers a simple, satisfying coastal Karnataka meal for pilgrims. Just outside, small eateries near Kumbhashi and along the highway serve local classics like neer dosa, kori rotti, and fresh seafood thalis.
For a sweeter stop, look for shops selling traditional Udupi-style filter coffee and payasam varieties.
Anegudde Temple History in Kannada
Local Kannada-language sources and newspaper features cover the Anegudde Vinayaka temple history in Kannada in more cultural depth, including regional folklore not always translated elsewhere. These are worth exploring for readers comfortable with the language.
Anegudde Temple History in Tamil
Tamil Nadu devotees have long visited this shrine, and several Tamil-language temple directories document the Anegudde Vinayaka temple history in Tamil, including idol descriptions and festival calendars aimed at Tamil-speaking pilgrims.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the timings of the Anegudde Temple?
Anegudde Vinayaka Temple stays open roughly from 6:00 AM to 8:30 PM daily, with a short midday break. Timings may shift slightly during major festivals.
What is Anegudde famous for?
Anegudde Vinayaka Temple is famous for its towering 12-foot Swayambhu idol, gold-faced silver armour, and status as one of coastal Karnataka’s seven Mukti Sthalas.
What is the story behind Anegudde Vinayaka Temple?
Legend says Lord Ganesha blessed Bheemasena with a sword to slay the demon Kumbhasura here, and Anegudde Vinayaka Temple’s village name, Kumbhashi, comes from that event.
How can I book a room at Anegudde Vinayaka Temple?
Rooms at the guest house near Anegudde Vinayaka Temple can be booked by contacting the temple trust directly or checking availability through the official website.
What is the dress code for Anegudde Vinayaka Temple?
Traditional, modest clothing is expected at Anegudde Vinayaka Temple, with footwear removed before entering the sanctum. Men should avoid shorts; women should wear sarees or salwar suits.
How far is Anegudde Vinayaka Temple from Udupi?
Anegudde Vinayaka Temple is about 25 km from Udupi, roughly a 40 to 50 minute drive along National Highway 66 toward Kundapura.
Conclusion
Anegudde Vinayaka Temple at Kumbhashi, Udupi district, rewards a well-timed visit. Confirm Anegudde Vinayaka Temple timings (6:00 AM–8:30 PM) and Anna Prasadam timings before arriving, since festival days shift both.
Check the temple location and address on NH66, note the PIN code 576257, and save the contact number and directions for a smooth trip. The distance from Udupi is just 25 km, making it an easy add-on with Kollur Mookambika Temple, Udupi Krishna Temple, and Murudeshwar Temple. Explore the temple’s history, use e-hundi for remote donations, and read the history in Kannada or Tamil for deeper context before you go.