The Varanga Jain Temple stands as a tranquil testament to the growth of the Jain religion in the state of Karnataka, India. Jainism reached Karnataka more than 2,200 years ago during the 3rd Century BC from the northern regions of India. It is believed that Jainism took birth in Bihar. The tenets of Jainism and its philosophy were formalized by Mahavir who was the last Tirthankara born in 599 BCE, Mahavir was born some 32 years before the birth of Buddha in Lumbini, Nepal.
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Varanga Jain Temple – Varanga Kere Basadi Near Karkala, Udupi District
Karnataka has a rich legacy of Jainism and there are many Jain heritage centers and sites in the state including the spectacular statue of Bahubali in Shravanabelagola and the Varanga Jain temple among others.
Read on to know more about the history of the Varanga Jain temple, the Varanga Lake (Kere Basadi) also known as, the Neminatha Basadi, the Varanga Matada Basadi, Chaturmukha Basadi, festivals including the five-day Rathotsava as well as the history of Jainism in Karnataka. We hope that this Varanga Jain temple blog serves as a complete guide to Varanga Jain Temple.
The Varanga Jain Temple – Karnataka’s Best Kept Secret | Varanga Lake (Kere) Basadi | Varanga Jain Mutt
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The Varanga Jain Temple in the small but picturesque village of Varanga in the Hebri Taluk of Udupi district is a popular pilgrim center for Jains. It is however a place that is relatively off the beaten track for other travelers. Its ancient Jain temples are surely among the most unique and treasured temples of Karnataka. The place is a “Paradise Found”, for connoisseurs of heritage, art, and architecture. It is also a place that evokes keen interest among historians and also a place that appeals with its stunning visual beauty that has an aura of timelessness. It is indeed one of Karnataka’s best-kept secrets.
The Varanga Jain Temple Udupi – An Overview
The Varanga Jain temple in Karnataka actually refers to three different temples located close to each other in the small village of Varanga in the Udupi District.
“There are three temples here which were built during the time of a king named Varanga,” says Parshwanathji who is a priest at the Jain temples. He was the one who explained the history of the temples and the various rituals and beliefs related to the temples.
The first temple is the Neminatha temple also referred to as Neminatha Basadi | Hire Basadi. The second temple is located within the premises of the Varanga Jain Mutt and is referred to as Varanga Matada Basadi | Chandranatha Basadi. Off the three Basadis (Jain Temples) in Varanga the third one is the most spectacular and unconventional temple. The third temple is the Varanga Kere Basadi also known as the lake temple or Chaturmukha Basadi.
Varanga Jain Temple History And The Architecture of The Jain Basadis
The history of Jainism in Varanga can be traced right back to the 7th century. The Alupa dynasty ruled over the regions of coastal Karnataka between the 2nd Century CE and 15th Century CE. Though at their peak the Alupas were an independent dynasty, later they became vassals of the Chalukyas and the Hoysalas.
Another dynasty that existed around the same time in coastal Karnataka and had links with the Alupa dynasty was the Santara or Bhairarasa dynasty also referred to as the Santharas. This dynasty ruled over regions of Coastal Karnataka as well as what is known as the Malenadu region. Their kingdom was referred to as the Kalasa-Karkala kingdom as they ruled from the two capitals of Kalasa and Karkala.
The Santara dynasty is believed to have been founded by Jinadatta Raya who is believed to have been a Jain price from Mathura in the north of India. Legend has it that he migrated southwards from Mathura carrying a stone idol of Padmavati, a Jain Yakshi or deity. He founded a kingdom in Humcha or Hombuja, which is today a village near Ripponpet in the Hosanagara Taluk of Shimoga district in Karnataka.
The credit for the spread of Jainism in the region of coastal Karnataka, specifically Tulunadu, and in the region of Malenadu goes to the kings of the Santara dynasty. The rulers from this dynasty had various Jain temples and other monuments built in the region including the monolithic statue of Bahubali in Karkala.
It is worth noting that the Santara dynasty had relations through marriage with the Alupa dynasty and was also simultaneously at loggerheads with them. After the rise of the Vijayanagara Empire in Hampi, the Santaras became its feudatories. The Santara dynasty is believed to have lasted from the 7th century till the 18th century. The Varanga Jain temples can be traced to the growth of Jainism fueled by the efforts of the Santara dynasty in Karkala.
Varanga Neminath Basadi | Neminatha Basadi
The Neminatha temple or Neminatha Basadi is believed to be the oldest of the Varanga Jain Basadis or temples. It is believed to be around 1200 years old. Various inscriptions at the temple throw light to the genesis and development of the Varanga Jain temples. One inscription at the Neminath temple mentions the restoration of a grant by King Kundana of the Santara dynasty after he had wrested control of the region from the Alupa dynasty.
Another inscription at the Neminatha Basadi dating back to the 13th-century points towards a Varanga Jain Mutt that existed even before the Neminath Basadi came into existence. This Jain Mutt is believed to have come up probably during the 8th or 9th Century CE.
The Neminatha Basadi which is also referred to as Hire Basadi is believed to be the oldest of the Varanga Jain temples. It is a temple that is dedicated to Neminatha, the 22nd Jain Tirthankara. The Neminatha Basadi is also known as Shri Bhagwan Neminath Mandir or Shri Nemishwara Swami Basadi.
An outer porch leads to to the spacious courtyard of the Neminath Basadi. Outside the temple, walls can be seen a 45 feet tall monolithic Manasthambha (Pillar) dating back to the 12th century which is a typical feature of many Jain temples. The Manasthambha are usually tall monolithic stone pillars placed outside the entrance of temples with the images of Tirthankaras at the top.
The purpose of the Manasthambhas is believed to induce the devotees entering the temples to shed their ego in front of the giant structures. Some of the well-known Manasthambhas include the famous Kirti Sthambha of Chittorgarh in Rajasthan among others.
Once inside the massive courtyard, visitors to the Neminatha Basadi are greeted by a small balustrade flanked by elephants that leads into the outer Mandapa of the temple. The entrance to this Mandapa has a lintel or ornate Toran-like structure with carvings of two elephants with garlands and a Tirthankara in a Padmasana pose.
Inside the Mandapa one can see some carvings on the ceilings while most of the pillars barring a few are plain and devoid of any sort of ornamentation. The Mandapa leads to the Sanctum sanctorum of the shrine which houses a 5-feet black idol of the 22nd Tirthankara, Neminatha in a sitting (Padmasana) posture.
The Neminatha Basadi also has bronze idols of Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, and all other Tirthankaras in Kayotsarga (standing meditation) posture. There is also an idol of Ambika who is the Yakshi or guardian deity associated with Neminatha. There is a small temple to Kshetrapala a guardian God who presides over the farmland, within the premises of the Neminatha Basadi.
The Neminatha Basadi which is considered to be the oldest of the Jain Basadis Of Varanga is covered with sloping roofs, which is typical of the architectural style of the region in those times.
The spartan precincts of the Neminatha Basadi which has many important and historic inscriptions have been a silent witness to the growth and influence of Jainism for well nigh 12,00 years. Its aging stone pillars and walls hold countless stories close to their bosoms.
Varanga Matada Basadi
The second oldest of the Varanga Jain Temples in Karnataka is the Basadi or Jain temple that is located inside what is the current Varanga Jain Mutt. It is known as Matada Basadi or Chandranatha Basadi. This Varanga temple is dedicated to the 8th Jain Tirthankara, Chandraprabha. A beautiful idol of the Tirthankara Chandraprabha, in padmasana posture, is the main attraction of this Jain temple in Varanga.
The Matada Basadi is believed to have a history of 1,000 years. It also serves as the administrative office of the Jain Temple. The temple is managed by the Varanga Atishaya Srikshetra that comes under the Sri Kshetra Hombuja. The Temple Trust – Hombuja Jain Math, is currently headed by Dr. Sri Deevendrakeerthi Bhattaraka Swamiji. He is the current Bhattaraka or Pontiff of Hombuja Jain Math.
Varanga Kere Basadi | Chaturmukha Basadi
Undoubtedly, the most amazing attraction of the Varanga Jain temples has to be the Lake Temple in the midst of nature, the 850-year-old lake temple (Kere Basadi), also known simply as Kere Basadi or Parshwanath Basadi or Chaturmukha Basadi. There Are 4 Idols Namely Bhagwan Neminath, Parsvanatha, Bhagavan Shantinath., Bhagwan Ananthanath at the Chaturmukha Basadi. In addition, there is an idol of Padmavathi in front of the idol of Parshvanatha.
The 12th-century temple of the Varanga Kere Basadi stands in the middle of a lake, surrounded by emerald waters that are more often than not filled with floating white lilies shimmering in the sunlight. It is believed that the lake itself is man-made. Information about the origin of the lake has been found in an inscription at the Neminatha Basadi.
According to the inscription, the lake was excavated during the rule of King Kulashekhara under orders from his queen, during the 12th century. The about 11 to 14 acre stretch of lake, then provided the ideal setting for the unique and picturesque Chaturmukha Basadi.
One of the novel experiences while visiting the Varanga Jain temple is the journey to the temple by boat. The boat ride is short but enthralling as one glides through the placid waters towards the temple in the middle of the lake. The 850-years old belies its age and looks almost contemporary from far. This is because of the marble tiles that now cover the outer walls of the temple. However, closer observation of the temple and its interiors highlight the antiquity of the temple.
The main idol of the Kere Basadi is the 23rd Tirthankara of Jainism, Parshvanatha. In front of this idol is the idol of Padmavati. The temple is called Chaturmukha as it has four doors in the four cardinal directions. There are four idols of Tirthankaras facing one direction each. The Tirthankaras apart from Parshvanatha who is worshipped at the Kere Basadi are Neminatha, Anantanatha, and Shantinatha. All the Tirthankara idols are in Kayotsarga (standing meditation) posture.
There is an outer courtyard to the temple which goes around it. Inside the temple, there is a narrow Pradakshina Patha or circumambulatory path. The temple is partly covered with modern tile roofing. However, the older roof topped with a Kalasha peeps from behind the modern facade. Spending some moments in contemplation outside the temple by the side of the lake, watching the fish is a serene experience. Praying at the temple is believed to ensure prosperity for the devotee. The Kere Basadi like the Neminatha Basadi and the Chandranatha Basadi is a live Jain temple where regular worship is done with all rituals according to the local Jain traditions.
Quick Facts About Varanga
- Varanga is home to the ancient Jain temples which are the Neminatha Basadi, the Chandranatha Basadi, and the Kere Basadi or Chaturmukha Basadi
- The history of Jainism in Varanga can be traced to the 7th and 8th centuries
- The climate of Varanga is tropical monsoon with heavy rains between May to October
- There is a well at the Kere Basadi with water that is distinct from the water of the lake and is used for Abhisheka of the temple idols
- The Kere Basadi can be approached only by boat throughout the year
- The Varanga Jain temple is among the top 10 must-visit Jain Monuments in Karnataka
- Must See Attractions In Varanga are Varanga Lake (Kere) Basadi, Neminatha Basadi, and the Matada Basadi
Festivals And Other Rituals of Varanga Jain Temple
The Varanga Jain Temple with its ancient roots also celebrates many festivals and other rituals that are deep-rooted in the local tradition. The annual Rathotsava is the main festival which is spread over 5 days in the month of February.
- Annual Rathyatra Mahotsava for Lord Neminatha and Sarvahna Yaksha is held during the month of February, as part of the program, an idol of Sarvahana Yaksha is taken in a boat to Chaturmukha Basadi where Panchamrita Abhisheka is performed to it along with the Parshvanatha idol. The idol is then taken to Matada Basadi and Hire Basadi where ritual pooja is done
- Pushpa Rathotsava. a chariot bedecked with flowers is taken in procession with Lord Neminatha and Sarvahna Yaksha as part of the annual Rathyatra Mahotsava
- Vijayadashami Rathyatra is done with the idol of Padmavati, this rath yatra commemorates the procession that used to be organized by the King Deva Raya II of the Vijayanagara empire on Vijayadashmi day
- Buta Kola or Daiva Kola is organized during the festivals of Navratri, Dassara, and Diwali, this is an animistic form of elaborate dance accompanied with vibrant music and done with colorful costumes and masks, the dance is offered as a form of worship to the local spirits
- Kambala which is an annual buffalo race is held in the month of November
Jainism in Karnataka
The Varanga Jain Temples are beautiful milestones in the journey of Jainism in Karnataka and India. Jainism is believed to be one of the three oldest religions in India. The emergence of Jainism and Buddhism in India dates back to around the same time. Jainism as a formal religion originated in Bihar after the 24th Tirthankara Mahavira formalized the tenets of Jainism.
Jainism slowly spread its wings from north to south. Across India, the Jain pilgrim trail is in itself a map of the spread of Jainism. Today Jainism as a religion is practiced more in the states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Karnataka. The Khajuraho Jain temples, the Ranakpur Jain temples including the Parshwanath Jain Temple, and the Neminath Jain temple are all silent witnesses to the growth of Jainism.
In happiness and suffering, in joy and grief, we should regard all creatures as we regard our own self.
-Mahavira
In Karnataka, Jainism is believed to have first arrived at Shravanabelagola with the advent of Acharya Bhadrabahu along with his disciples including Chandragupta Maurya, sometime during the 3rd century BCE. The arrival of a Jain prince from Mathura in the 7th century led to the establishment of Jainism in Karnataka. The Jain prince named Jinadattaraya laid the foundations for the later emergence of the Santhara kingdom which boosted the emergence of Jainism as one of the main religions in Karnataka, in medieval times
Other Tourist Places To Visit Near Udupi | Must Visit Places Near Udupi | Places Near Varanga Jain Temple
Udupi is a place that is a travelers paradise. There is so much to experience and see in the district. The attractions range from pristine beaches to temples and churches and heritage sites. Here are some of the places that one must visit in and near the Udupi district.
- Udupi Sri Krishna Matha
- St. Mary’s Island
- Varanga Jain Temple
- St. Lawrence Church, Attur
- Savira Kambada Basadi (1000 Pillared Temple), Moodbidri
- Karkala Bahubali Statue
- Koodlu Theertha Waterfall
- Agumbe Ghat
- Agumbe Sunset Point
How To Reach Varanga Jain Temple Near Udupi, Karnataka
Location – Varanga Kere Basadi
Click for Varanga Jain Temple Location
Bangalore to Varanga Jain Temple
Mangalore to Varanga Jain Temple
Udupi to Varanga Jain Temple
Karkala Bus Stand to Varanga Jain Temple
Shimoga to Varanga Temple near Karkala
- Varanga Jain Temple is located in the Varanga village of Hebri Taluk in Udupi District of Karnataka, India
- Varanga can be reached by road, by train, and by air
By Air
- The nearest airport to Varanga is the Mangaluru International Airport in Mangalore at a distance of about 68 kilometers
- From the airport, one can hire a cab or use public transport to reach Varanga
By Rail
- The nearest railway station to Varanga is in Udupi at a distance of about 40 kilometers
- One can hire a taxi or use public transport to reach the Varanga Jain temple from the railway station
By Road
- Shimoga To Varanga Jain Temple distance is about 118 kilometers
- Varanga Jain Temple From Bangalore is about 372 kilometers
- From Udupi to Varanga Jain Temple Distance is about 40 kilometers
- Varanga is about 24 kilometers from Karkala
- Varanga Jain Temple Karkala Udupi District is about 34 kilometers from Manipal
- Varanga Jain Temple Karkala is about 79 kilometers from Mangaluru or Mangalore
- One can travel by KSRTC buses or private buses to reach Udupi and from there hire a cab to Varanga
Varanga Jain Temple Images | Images Of Varanga Jain Temple | Photos of Varanga Kere Basadi
Do the images of Varanga Jain Temple act like a magnet? Are you are dreaming of turning into reality the dreams that the Varanga Jain Temple images would have conjured? Planning a trip to Varanga? You can book a cheap flight right here through TripAdvisor or Agoda or CheapAir or Cleartrip or Makemytrip or Priceline and come to Udupi. If you are thinking of a road trip to Varanga, Udupi or anywhere in India check out the rental car and bus options.
Best Time To Visit Varanga Kere Basadi | Varanga Lake Temple | Reaching Varanga Basadi | What Is The Best Time to Visit Kere Basadi, Karkala |
The best time to visit the Varanga Jain temples including the Varange Kere Basadi is during the months of October to February. This is the best time in terms of the weather, also some of the annual festivals of the Varanga Jain temple take place in February-March.
Varanga Jain Temple Timings | Varanga Basadi Timings
The Varanga Jain temple timings are as under: The temples are generally open from 6.00 AM to 6.00 PM. To visit the Kere Basadi, one can check at the office of the Matada Basadi for Boat service and the timings of Boat service.
Required Time to Explore Kere Basadi and Jain Temples in Varanga, Karnataka
One would require at least an hour and a half or a maximum of two hours to explore all the Jain temples.
Varanga Jain Temple Contact Number
The Varanga Jain Temple Contact number is +91 98455 48688. The address of Varanga Jain Temple is as under:
Varanga Jain Mutt,
Varanga Jain Math Road,
Varanga,
Karnataka, Pin-574108.
Where To Stay In Varanga
Varanga is a place that can be easily visited from Udupi. One can stay in Udupi and visit the Varanga Jain temple and other attractions. There are plenty of accommodation options in Udupi to suit all budgets and preferences.
If you are planning a visit to Varanga and/or Udupi, you can book your accommodation right here. You can book your stay in Udupi through TripAdvisor or Cleartrip or Agoda or Makemytrip or Priceline conveniently right here!
| Click to book the best hotels and best resorts in Udupi or in Karkala or in Mangalore |
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Varanga Jain Mutt | Varanga Jain Temple | Varanga Temple – Good To Know Information
- Though there is no Dress code for general Darshan, it is prudent to dress modestly as befits a religious place
- Cigarettes, Tobacco, Gutkha, chewing of betel leaves, bubble gum, chewing gum inside the temple is not allowed
- Do not smoke or spit in the Jain temple and its surroundings
- Footwear is not allowed inside the Varanga Jain Temple
- Photography is not allowed inside the temples at Varanga
Jain Temple Varanga, Karkala – FAQ
How can I reach the Varanga Jain temple?
One can reach Varanga Jain Basadi through a Boat. One can request the priest at the Matada Basadi to help.
How far is Varanga from Udupi?
Varanga is 40 kilometers from Udupi.
When is Jain Temple Varanga open?
The temples are usually open from 6 AM to 6 PM, however, check with the office at Matada Basadi for exact timings.
How much time is required to visit all the Jain Temples in Varanga?
One will require at least an hour or a maximum of two hours to explore all the Jain Basadis in Varanga, Karnataka.
What hotels are near Jain Temple Varanga?
The nearby hotels are in Udupi or in Manipal.
What attractions are near Jain Temple Varanga?
The attractions near Jain temple Varanga are Koodlu Theertha, Agumbe Ghat, Agumbe Sunset Point.
What you should know before visiting the temples in Varanga in Karnataka?
- To reach the Kere Basadi, one has to hire a boat. The boat is available at a very affordable rate
- One would require at least an hour and a half or a maximum of two hours to explore all the Jain temples
- Carry essentials like snacks and water bottle especially if you are traveling with kids or senior citizens
- During monsoon season, do not forget to carry your umbrella
- Photography is strictly prohibited so do not carry your cameras to the temples
- Though there is no dress code, it is suggested that you dress modestly to visit the Jain Basadis
A visit to these beautiful and serene temples is like a journey to the past, a revisitation of a forgotten chapter of Karnataka’s history. The experience leaves one with a sense of fulfillment at many levels. As you turn your back to Varanga, the simple and earthy beauty of the place and its historic value slowly grows on you.
Have you visited this lesser-known destination of Karnataka? Do let us know your thoughts through our comments section. Please do subscribe to our blog for instant notification of new posts, and also connect with us on our social media channels.
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This is such a stunning place! Anything by the water makes it more attractive. Jain temples have exquisite architecture.
I have never visited South India & I want to go to Karnataka to see its beauty. The temple location is so serene & tranquil and the photos are superb.
Wow this is so close to home. I would love to see the 12th century stuff here in this place. Funny I haven’t googled all this and visited them till now.
What a lovely find! I love how india has these beautiful gems all over the country. this looks interesting and the architecture is so different from other temples and especially those in the north.
This temple looks really very beautiful and I liked the location its quite green and peaceful there.
This is the complete guide. No guide will guide any tourist with this kind of information. From the ways to reach the temple to the history. Everything is in detail.
Wow you have explained everything about Varanga Jain Temple. Every aspect of the history and cultural heritage.
I think that the best time to visit is during Monsoon or during winter seasons to experience the scenic beauty. The place is Serene and peaceful.
Wow the Varanga Jain Temple looks stunning on that lake. It surely has beautiful architecture too. I would love to go there. I will plan my trip during the Rathyathra Mahotsava for sure, that will be a great celebration to attend.
This is such an extensive post on Varanga Jain Temple Udupi. I have been in Karnataka for over 2 years now but had not heard about this beautiful place. I would so love to visit this place once things are better in our country
This is a beautiful place and very close to nature. I might plan someday.
I can almost feel the serenity and peaceful environment of the place. As usual this is a very new destination fir me.
Varanga jain temple seems an amazing one for it’s architecture and historical value. I would love to visit this temple when I will plan for Udapi. Lovely post
I would love to visit this Jain temple someday. Your blog has aroused my interest yet again.
Jain temple is really beautiful seems like peaceful and divine place.i wish to visit it.
India has such hidden gems all over and its a delight to read about them. The place around the temple looks so serene and beautiful.
The place definitely looks so picturesque. You’ve definitely given us more details and made it easier for us to plan
Varanga Jain Temple is so beautiful. I love visiting old temple especially if they have stunning architecture and I think south Indian temples are beautiful. I will definitely visit this place and temple.
I really enjoy reading this post about Jain temple. This temple is really beautiful and I really want to visit this place with my family.
I would love to see the 12th century stuff in here. The place looks lovely… Although this is the first time I’m hearing about it but I would love to visit there.
I loved reading about Jain temples. I didn’t realise there were these many in Karnataka. Thanks a lot for the virtual tour 😊
The place looks so serene and calm. I would like to visit Varanga temple. Your explanation and the pictures are so very perfect to set a tone for any aspiring visitor.
The Serene Varanga Jain Temple is such a stunning beauty and hidden treasure I feel. Love knowing about this beautiful Jain temple
I never knew there was a Jain temple in Varanga, much less from the 7th century. Also, this is a first I’ve seen in a lake. Must be such a sight to visit this place!
I never get a chance to visit Karnataka. after reading your recent posts felt that Karnataka has a many beautiful temples. Varanga jain temple is looking really amazing. would love to visit this, when plan ,my next India visit.
Udupi is one of the best and most scenic place I have costed so far. Thanks for sharing such a detailed post. You haven’t missed anything that makes this post a perfect guide.
This blog is such a treasure to all travel lovers. I wonder how come I never knew that Karnataka has a rich legacy of Jainism. Thanks for sharing detailed information about Varanga Jain Temple.
I really wish and pray that all set fine soon and I can start traveling. This post is really going to give me the right guide to explore!!
Such a detailed post on the Jain temple. Love the detailed blog , which covers every aspect of it. And the pictures of the place is simply superb.
Wow, Sany and Vijay. This is a brilliant find of yours. I had not heard of this place and am surprised by the presence of such an old Jain temple in Karnataka. Loved the history behind and the picturesque views.
It seems such a serene place. I love how all your reviews are detailed and provide all the pieces of information needed for anyone who plans to visit the place 🙂
Wow, the temple ,the surrounding , the place is looking so beautiful, greenery and peaceful . Loved it through your eyes.
Your series on Southern Indian temples is making me want to visit them and look at them with a perspective deduced by all the information you have shared. This temple is yet a hidden gem.