How to Reach Sri Mookambika Temple: Travel Guide for Pilgrims
Plan your trip to Sri Mookambika Temple, Kollur—road, rail, air routes. Bangalore to Kollur bus, Udupi & Mangalore links, nearest airport/stations, local tips.
Sri Mookambika Temple Kollur revered as Sree Mookambika and consecrated by Adi Shankaracharya draws lakhs of devotees every year. For first-time and returning pilgrims, selecting the correct route saves time, energy, and cost. This travel guide explains how to reach Kollur Mookambika Temple from major hubs with simple choices by road, rail, and air. Located in Karnataka’s Udupi district at the foothills of Kodachadri, the shrine sits within convenient reach of Udupi and Mangalore, with practical connections from Bangalore and Goa. Whether you’re planning a Bangalore to Kollur Mookambika bus journey, a Udupi to Kollur Mookambika Temple drive, or a flight into Mangalore followed by a taxi, you’ll find routes, last-mile tips, and local transport details for a smooth and peaceful darshan.
Location of Sri Mookambika Temple
Sri Mookambika Temple is located in Kollur, a serene pilgrim town in coastal Karnataka’s Udupi district. Set at the base of the Western Ghats, the shrine lies close to the Kodachadri Hills and is well-connected to nearby cities by road and rail.
Where is Kollur Located?
Kollur is in the Udupi district, Karnataka, India.
It is nestled in the lush foothills of the Kodachadri Hills, part of the Western Ghats, giving the temple a tranquil, forested setting.
Distance from Major Cities
- Udupi: 80 km
- Mangalore: 130 km
- Bangalore: 430 km
- Goa: 300 km
How to Reach Sri Mookambika Temple by Road
Road journeys to Kollur are the most convenient option for many devotees point-to-point, flexible, and scenic. Good highways link Udupi, Mangalore, and Bangalore to Kollur Mookambika Temple, with easy last-mile access right up to the temple town.
From Udupi to Kollur
Regular KSRTC/RTC and private buses run from Udupi to Kollur (often via Kundapura), and taxis are readily available. The drive is picturesque, combining coastal stretches and gentle ghat sections: follow NH66 north to Kundapura ( 36–40 km) and then turn east onto the Kollur road (SH52) for 35 km to the Sree Mookambika Temple. Typical journey time is about 1.5–2.5 hours, depending on traffic and weather ideal for day trips or same-day darshan. This is the most common route from Udupi to the Mookambika Temple in Kollur for families.
From Mangalore to Kollur
Expect a 3–4 hour drive via NH66. Head north from Mangalore towards Kundapura (100–105 km) and then take the signed turn-off east to Kollur (35 km). The route stays close to the coast before climbing into the verdant foothills, so you get a mix of sea breezes and Western Ghats greenery. Mangalore to Kollur Mookambika Temple buses (government and private) are frequent throughout the day, and you can also ride a bus to Kundapura/Byndoor and shift to a local bus or taxi for the last leg.
From Bangalore to Kollur
If you prefer not to drive, the Bangalore to Kollur Mookambika bus (overnight KSRTC and private sleeper coaches) is the most stress-free choice board in the evening and reach by morning. By car, plan for 8–10 hours depending on route, breaks, and weather conditions. Two popular self-drive options:
- Via Shivamogga: Bengaluru → Nelamangala/Tumkur side → Tiptur/Arsikere → Shivamogga → Hosanagara → Nagara → Kollur. Scenic two-lane stretches, lighter traffic in parts, with shorter ghat driving at the end.
- Via Mangaluru–Kundapura: Bengaluru → Hassan → Sakleshpur (Shiradi Ghat) → Mangaluru → NH66 north to Kundapura → turn east to Kollur—mostly 4-lane highways till the ghats; longer distance but reliable amenities.
Whichever you choose, start early, refuel before the ghat sections, and avoid night driving in heavy rain.
How to Reach Sri Mookambika Temple by Train
Though Kollur doesn’t have its own railway station, nearby Konkan Railway and South Western Railway stops make the temple easy to access for pilgrims from Karnataka, Kerala, Goa, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu.
Nearest Railway Stations
- Byndoor (Mookambika Road) – 20 km: The closest railhead to Kollur; ideal for quick last-mile travel to the temple.
- Kundapura – 40 km: A busy Konkan Railway stop with good taxi and bus availability.
- Udupi – 80 km: Ideal for devotees planning a trip to the Udupi to Kollur Mookambika Temple, offering more hotel options and frequent bus services.
Train Connectivity
- From Bangalore (Bengaluru): Overnight/intercity trains toward Mangaluru/Udupi with onward connection by road to Kundapura/Byndoor.
- From Mangalore, multiple daily trains north along the Konkan corridor stop at Kundapura/Byndoor. From there, you can complete the final stretch by taxi or bus, which is particularly convenient for those planning to visit the Kollur Mookambika Temple from Mangalore.
- From Goa, Mumbai, Chennai & other metros: Long-distance Konkan/West Coast services connect into Kundapura or Byndoor, from where you can reach Kollur smoothly by road.
(Timetables change seasonally—check current schedules and seat availability before you travel.)
Last-Mile Connectivity
From Byndoor (Mookambika Road), Kundapura, or Udupi, you’ll find autos, taxis, and regular local/express buses to Kollur. Taxis are faster for families and senior citizens, buses are the most economical. Typical last-mile travel times: 30–45 minutes from Byndoor, 60–90 minutes from Kundapura, and 2–2.5 hours from Udupi (traffic and weather dependent).
How to Reach Sri Mookambika Temple by Air
For long-distance devotees, flying is the quickest option. Most pilgrims land at Mangalore and then continue by road to Kollur Mookambika Temple; Bengaluru offers wider flight choices but requires a longer surface connection.
Nearest Airports
- Mangalore International Airport (IXE) – 135 km: The most practical gateway for Kollur with good onward road links via NH66.
- Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (BLR) – 430 km: Useful for pilgrims arriving from major metros or overseas with frequent flights and multiple ground-transport options.
Connectivity to Temple
From Mangalore Airport, take a taxi to NH66 and proceed north toward Kundapura, then turn east to Kollur. Airport taxis, car rentals, and city transfers to the KSRTC bus stand are available. From Mangalore city, frequent buses run to Kundapura/Byndoor, with easy last-mile autos or taxis to the shrine ideal for "Mangalore to Kollur Mookambika Temple” plans.
From Bengaluru (BLR), families often combine modes: airport transfer to the city, then an overnight KSRTC/private coach (Bangalore to Kollur Mookambika bus) or a train toward Udupi/Kundapura, followed by a short road leg. This split saves fatigue and aligns well with early-morning darshan.
Local Transport Options in Kollur
Once in Kollur, getting around is simple and affordable. The temple, bus stand, and most stays are situated close together, making short rides or even walks cover most needs.
Autos & Taxis for Short Distance
Auto-rickshaws cluster near the main temple streets, the bus stand, and popular lodges. They’re best for 1–3 km hops temple to lodge, lodge to eateries, or a quick drop to the taxi stand. For families, pre-booked taxis (sedan/SUV) are available for local sightseeing (Kodachadri foothills, Souparnika River ghats) and same-day returns. Fares are generally meter-less; agree on a price before boarding, especially for out-and-back trips or early-morning darshan slots.
Lodges & Hotels Near Temple Within Walking Distance
Kollur’s core is compact. Many budget and mid-range lodges, dharmashalas, and small hotels sit within a 5–10 minute walk of the Sree Mookambika Temple handy for elderly devotees and families with children. Look for properties on or just off the main temple road; most offer basic amenities (clean rooms, hot water, early check-in on request). During weekends, festivals, and Navratri, rooms fill quickly reserve in advance if you need ground-floor access or lifts.
Bus Services to Nearby Pilgrim Spots (Udupi, Murudeshwar, Gokarna)
Kollur’s bus stand has frequent services to Kundapura/Byndoor, with onward connections to Udupi (Krishna Matha) and Murudeshwar (Shiva statue/temple). Buses to Gokarna are fewer; you’ll usually change at Kundapura or Bhatkal. Early-morning and evening departures are popular with pilgrims planning same-day darshan at multiple shrines confirm last return timings if you’re not staying overnight.
Travel Tips for Pilgrims Visiting Kollur
These quick, practical tips help you avoid common hassles so your Kollur Mookambika Temple trip stays smooth from booking and packing to darshan timing and clothing.
1. Best Time to Visit (Navratri, Winter Season)
For pleasant weather and thinner crowds, plan between October and February. Skies are clearer, roads are safer, and early-morning darshan is comfortable for seniors and kids. Navratri (Sept/Oct) is spiritually vibrant with special pujas and alankaras do expect higher footfall and surge pricing on stays. If you’re driving during the monsoon (June–September), start early, check ghat advisories, and build buffer time for rain-related delays.
2. Advance Booking of Hotels & Transport
Weekends, festival days, and school vacations fill up fast in Kollur’s compact temple zone. Pre-book lodges near the temple (ground-floor rooms go first), and confirm early check-in if you’re arriving by the Bangalore to Kollur Mookambika bus. For rail travellers, reserve tickets to Byndoor (Mookambika Road) or Kundapura early; line up a taxi for the last mile. Flyers to Mangalore Airport should pre-arrange a cab or plan a bus to Kundapura with a final taxi hop this keeps costs predictable for families.
3. Carrying Essentials for Temple Visit
Pack light, temple-friendly clothing, a small umbrella (or raincoat in monsoon), personal medicines, mosquito repellent, and a compact power bank. Keep at least one government ID, some cash plus UPI, and a zip pouch for offerings and tickets. Footwear must be removed before entering bring easy slip-ons and a small bag to carry them if needed. For long queues, a water bottle and light snacks (where permitted) help children and elders.
4. Dress Code Awareness
Choose modest, clean attire suitable for South Indian temples: shoulders and knees covered; avoid shorts and sleeveless tops inside temple areas. Remove caps, sunglasses, and leather items where required; switch phones to silent. Photography is usually restricted inside sanctum precincts follow staff instructions and signage. Respectful attire and quiet conduct ensure a smoother darshan for everyone.
Conclusion
Reaching Sri Mookambika Temple, Kollur, is straightforward, with reliable options by road, rail, and air. From overnight Bengaluru buses to quick taxi hops from Byndoor or Mangalore Airport, pilgrims can choose routes that match budget, time, and comfort. Local autos, taxis, and walkable stays make last-mile movement easy for families and seniors. Plan around weather, festivals, and bookings to avoid queues and delays and enjoy an early darshan. With proper planning, your journey to this divine shrine can be peaceful and memorable.
FAQs
1. What is the nearest railway station to Sri Mookambika Temple?
Byndoor (Mookambika Road) is the nearest station, about 20 km from Kollur Mookambika Temple.
2. How far is Kollur from Mangalore Airport?
Mangalore International Airport (IXE) is roughly 135 km from Kollur.
3. Are there direct buses from Bangalore to Kollur?
Yes, overnight KSRTC and private sleeper coaches operate Bangalore to Kollur Mookambika bus services.
4. What is the best way to travel with family to Kollur?
For comfort, take a train to Byndoor/Kundapura and a pre-booked taxi for the last mile.
5. Can senior citizens easily reach Sri Mookambika Temple?
Yes—choose Byndoor/Kundapura → taxi for minimal transfers and fewer steps.
What's Your Reaction?
