A visit to Kukke Subramanya Temple

**Where is this Temple?** Long long ago, Kukke in North Canara district of Karnataka was a bustling town. And the temple dedicated to Lord Subramanya situated in the lush forests came to be known as the Kukke Subramanya temple. **The temple complex** The idol of Lord Subramanya who is seen riding his peacock is mounted on a serpent pedestal. It is flanked on both sides by temples dedicated to Lord Siva and Lord Narasimha. Lord Subramanya, it is said, consecrated three Siva idols to liberate himself from the sin of annihilating Tharakasura. One of the idols is supposed to have been worshipped by Vasuki, the serpent. And nearby, is the Adi Subramanya temple which is closely associated with Vasuki's lore. This is where the pilgrimage to Kukke Subramanya temple begins. **Kumara Mountain** Kumara Mountain which is shaped like a seven-headed serpent is situated roughly 20 kilometers away from Subramanya village. A river named Kumara dhara originates from this mountain. The two footsteps on the top of the mountain are believed to be those of Subramanya himself. The journey to Kumara Mountain through uninhabited areas thick with trees would be highly adventurous, as the route is not at all conducive to travel. **Sarpadosha Cure** Kukke Subramanyatemple is widely renowned for two important pujas namely Ashleshabali puja and Sarvasamskara. The deity Subramanya of Kukke is believed to be the protector of serpentine ill-bodings. Ashleshabali puja is done as a solution for Kalasarpadosha. Devotees from Kerala, Karnataka and also other states pray at Kukke and carry out sarpadosha cure rituals. **Reaching Kukke Subramanya temple** The temple is around 105 kilometers away from Mangalore. In order to approach it from Kasaragod part, one can reach Kukke via Puthur without touching Mangalore. For those travelling via train, Mangalore is the nearest railway station.