Discovering Dharmasthala in a Day

1. 8:00AM: Sri Manjunatha Temple
   Start your day with a visit to the most famous shrine in Dharmasthala. Sri Manjunatha Temple is an important religious and cultural center that houses a sacred Shiva Linga and attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. Explore the intricate carvings and architecture that reflect a blend of Hoysala and Dravadian styles. Remember to take off your shoes before entering the inner sanctum.

2. 10:00AM: Bahubali Statue
   Drive up to the scenic spot overlooking the Bharatappuzha River to see the towering 38 feet Bahubali Statue. This monolithic statue depicts the Jain Saint in a meditative pose and is considered an icon of non-violence and purity. Take in the panoramic views of the surrounding hills and enjoy a peaceful moment before heading off to your next destination.

   25 minutes (11.1 km) from Sri Manjunatha Temple

3. 12:00PM: Chandranatha Swamy Temple
   Continue your spiritual journey by visiting the Chandranatha Swamy Temple which is dedicated to the 8th Jain Tirthankara. The temple boasts of a 23 feet tall statue of Chandranatha Swami surrounded by smaller idols of other Tirthankaras. Take a moment to learn about the Jain philosophy and enjoy a simple vegetarian lunch at the temple's cafeteria.

   40 minutes (21.4 km) from Bahubali Statue

4. 2:30PM: Manjusha Museum
   Step into the world of art and culture at the Manjusha Museum which showcases over 10,000 rare artifacts related to Jainism and Kannada culture. The museum houses rare manuscripts, miniature paintings, sculptures, coins, and jewelry among others. Don't miss the opportunity to see the ancient Yakshagana mask collection.

   20 minutes (5.7 km) from Chandranatha Swamy Temple

5. 4:00PM: Shri Kshetra Dharmasthala Rural Development Project
   End your day with a visit to the Shri Kshetra Dharmasthala Rural Development Project, a socio-economic initiative that aims to improve the living conditions of the rural population. The project consists of a museum that highlights various aspects of rural development, a training center, a dairy, a herbal garden, and a vegetable propagation center. Take a guided tour and learn more about the project's successful initiatives.

   10 minutes (2.5 km) from Manjusha Museum

Time and Costs Estimates

• Sri Manjunatha Temple (1 hour)
• Bahubali Statue (1 hour, Rs. 50 for parking)
• Chandranatha Swamy Temple (1.5 hours, Rs. 100 for lunch)
• Manjusha Museum (1.5 hours, Rs. 50 entry fee)
• Shri Kshetra Dharmasthala Rural Development Project (1 hour, free entry)

Total Estimated Costs: Rs. 200

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Bahubali Betta, a small hill that provides magnificent views of the Bahubali Statue and the river. If you are interested in wildlife, visit the Wildlife Conservation Reserve which is home to several species of animals, including elephants, leopards, tigers, and birds. If you have less time, skip the Manjusha Museum or the Shri Kshetra Dharmasthala Rural Development Project, but make sure to visit the Sri Manjunatha Temple and Bahubali Statue at the minimum.