30 January 2021
We had to attend a familial ceremony near Moodabidri today. After the conclusion of ceremony, we had prefixed mind to visit the Thousand pillar temple which was just a km away from the location. The plan turned out well. We reached the location comfortably. There was initial confusion on the entrance since the maps deviated from actual co-ordinates. After dilly-dallying for a while, the locals steered us to right location (which was obviously the place we left off trusting google maps). Sometimes, the maps is not accurate or people who pin it get it wrong? Nevertheless, we parked the car at designated location and ready to explore. It was hot day with radiating Sun making it difficult to explore thoroughly. Also the sumptuous meal had rendered us drowsy which further deepened the fatigue. However, the new attraction kept me enthusiastic throughout the exploration.
A prominent tourist attraction in Mudabidri town and also in Karnataka, the Thousand Pillar Jain Temple is sacredly known as "Dakshina Kashi of South" for Jains. The basadi is architectural attraction of Jain heritage and is believed to be constructed around 14th century AD. The temple is located inside huge area and guarded by elevated walls. The temple is constructed with stones and wood resembling the ancient Indian architecture.
As you step ahead of the flagstaff, a pair of overlooking elephants greets you to the jain temple.
Entrance hosts a large pillar followed by Mantapa. Mantapa has beautiful carvings with artistic pillars having complex decorations. The floor of mantapa has attractive painting.
Stepping down mantapa is garba gruha. The ceiling & pillars are ornate with artistics carvings. One can also see the Serpent carvings and as well small housing for serpent god due south-west. The presence serpent god resembles the Tulunadu tradition of worshipping nature. Due to presence of various types of thousand pillars, the temple is also known with the name. The primary deity here is Jain Theerthankara Chandraprabha housed in GarbaGruha.
Wooden pillars are erected between the multi-storey median. This wooden arrangement is also typical coastal Karnataka construction which could be seen at many temples. The back side view of temple was perfect for temple photograph considering shooting along the direction of sunlight. Some glimpses from this angle
The surroundings of temple are infested with shy-thorns which makes it difficult to explore amidst pricking. Authorities levy fees which means minimal sanity should be maintained.
After a brief exploration, we drove back to village home. The blistering Sun did not allow us to explore extensively. Hope to visit the place again.
Fees
No parking fees levied on vehicles. The entrance fee is I guess Rs.25/- per head while the DSLR costs Rs.150/- if I can vaguely recall.
Food
Moodabidri being large town should have enough restaurants to quench hunger.
Time to visit
An all seasonal place to visit except when its raining heavily during monsoon season. Footwears are obviously not allowed inside premises which means the stone would be heated which makes it difficult to walk over them. Visit during morning/evening hours. Avoid mid-day visit except during monsoon season.
Conclusion
On concluding note, please maintain sanctity at the temple. We saw few visitors making enormous noise as if it was marriage hall. Please silently enjoy the mesmerizing structure. Indians should be proud of such intricate structure that existed from ancient times crossing various transformations.
Here is short video from visit
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