Varanga Jain Temple, Overview
The Varanga Jain Temple stands as a serene testament to the growth of Jainism in the Indian state of Karnataka. Jainism reached Karnataka more than 2,200 years ago during the 3rd century BCE from the northern regions of India. The principles of modern Jainism and its philosophy were formalized by Mahavira, the last Tirthankara born in 599 BCE, 32 years before the birth of the Buddha in Lumbini, Nepal.
History of this Temple
The history of Jainism in Varanga can be traced back to the 7th century. The Alupa dynasty ruled the regions of coastal Karnataka between the 2nd century CE and the 15th century CE. Although the Alupas were an independent dynasty at their peak, they later became vassals of the Chalukyas and the Hoysalas.
Another dynasty that existed in coastal Karnataka around the same time and had links with the Alupa dynasty was the Santaras or Bhairaras dynasty also called Santharas. This dynasty ruled the regions of coastal Karnataka as well as the regions known as the Malenadu region. His kingdom was called the Kalasa-Karkala Kingdom because he ruled from the two capitals of Kalasa and Karkala.
The Santra dynasty is believed to have been founded by Jinadatta Raya, who is believed to have been a Jain nobleman from Mathura in the north of India. Legend has it that he moved south from Mathura carrying a stone idol of Padmavati, a Jain yakshi or deity. He established a kingdom at Hamcha or Hombuja, which is today in the state of Karnataka.
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Best time to visit this Temple
The best time to visit Varanga Jain temple including Varanga Kere Basadi is during the months of October to February. This is the best time in terms of weather, some of the annual festivals of Varanga Jain Temple also take place in February-March.
Varanga Jain Temple Timings
This temple opens at 6:00 am in the morning and close at 6:00pm in the evening.
| Saturday | 8am–12pm, 3:30–6pm |
| Sunday | 8am–12pm, 3:30–6pm |
| Monday | 8am–12pm, 3:30–6pm |
| Tuesday | 8am–12pm, 3:30–6pm |
| Wednesday | 8am–12pm, 3:30–6pm |
| Thursday | 8am–12pm, 3:30–6pm |
| Friday | 8am–12pm, 3:30–6pm |
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Place to visit near Varanga Jain Temple
Udupi Sri Krishna Matha
Udupi Sri Krishna Matha is a Hindu temple that is visited by devotees from all over the country. Established in the 13th century, it is one of the oldest Udupi temples still standing. The atmosphere here is calm and you can feel the positive energy here.
The temple opens at 5-30 in the morning, and lunch is served here at noon. Plan your trip between these two for the best temple experience. Close to this main temple, there are many other temples in the area that one can visit.
Anegudde Vinayaka Temple
Anegudde Vinayaka Temple is situated in the famous village named Anegudde. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vinayaka and attracts a lot of tourists every year. If you want to hear the ancient stories related to this village then you must visit here.
Also Read: Vinayagar Temple, Pondicherry Timings, History, Travel Guide, and how to reach
How to reach Varanga Jain Temple
By Air- The nearest airport to Varanga is Mangaluru International Airport at Mangalore which is at a distance of about 68 kms. From the airport you can hire a cab or use public transport to reach Varanga.
By Train- The nearest railway station to Varanga is at Udupi which is at a distance of about 40 kms. You can hire a taxi or use public transport to reach Varanga Jain Temple from the railway station
By Road- The distance from Shimoga to Varanga Jain Temple is about 118 kms. The distance from Bangalore to Varanga Jain Temple is approximately 372 kms. To reach Udupi one can travel by KSRTC buses or private buses and from there hire a cab to Varanga.
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