Sringeri is a small hill town on the banks of river Tunga in Chikmagalur, Karnataka. This holy place is set amidst Western ghats and is at an altitude of 2789 ft above sea level. Sringeri got its name from a nearby hill called” Rishya Shringa Giri”, which in turn is named after a sage: “Rishyashringa”. It is the major hub for Vedic learning and it attracts a lot of students from various corners of India. Besides this, Sringeri is also known for its picture-perfect landscapes and peaceful surroundings that bring in nature lovers and travelers.
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Sringeri Mutt or Sharada Peetham
In fact. This place is popular for Sharada Peetham or Mutt dedicated to Goddess “Saraswathi” was established by Sir Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century. Sharada Mutt in south India was established first of 4 Peetham in 4 directions. Other Mutts are Jyotir Mutt near Badrinath in North, Govardhana Mutt In Puri in the east, and Kalika Mutt near Dwarka in the West.
Apart from this, there are 4 guardian temples on all four sides established by Adi Shankaracharya. Kalabhairava temple dedicated to lord shiva in the east, Kere Anjaneya temple in west, Kali Kamba temple in the north, and Devigamba temple in the south to protect the mutt.
Story About What Made Adi Shankaracharya Establish Peetham In Sringeri
As per the legends, Adi Shankaracharya in his early teens had visited Sringeri while in search of a place to establish Vedic institute and spread his teachings. He happened to notice a pregnant frog suffering from the scorching sun and all of a sudden a snake appeared and spread his hood to protect the frog. Shankaracharya was awestruck to see a snake protect the frog instead of eating it and was spellbound by the kindness of the land. Hence, he decided to start a Sharada Peetham in Sringeri.
Sharada Temple
This temple was established by Acharya Sri Shankara Bhagavatpada. Initially, the Sharada temple had a sandalwood statue of Sharada but it was replaced by the golden statue in the 14th century. This temple is built in the South Indian style of architecture with a raja gopuram. There are multiple stone pillars that display the carvings of the various goddesses.
Vidya Shankara temple
Unquestionably, one of the most beautiful Architectural Marvels in the Pilgrimage center Sringeri. This was built by the rulers Vijayanagar Empire in the 14th century and it is a mixture of Vijayanagar and Hoysala style of architecture. Vidya Shankara temple dedicated to Lord Shiva has 12 pillars or Stumbas that display the 12 different zodiac signs carved on it.
Also, try catching a glimpse of Chennakeshava temple, Shri Parshwanath Jain Tirthankara, Siriimane waterfall, and Hanumangundi falls, where you are in Sringeri.
Navarathri Festival In Sringeri
Navarathri is one of the most popular festivals that is celebrated for 11 days in a grandeur way. The whole town comes alive with a lot of colorful lights, huge processions, and fireworks. You can witness thousands of devotees all dressed in traditional attire paying a visit during Navratri.
What to eat in Sringeri
The town is flooded with eateries that serve local and popular vegetarian dishes of Karnataka. Since it is a temple town, you will not find any non-vegetarian restaurants in and around the corner. If you have a sweet tooth then do not miss out on Sringeri Halwa the special dish prepared here. Also, you can try out Ghee Mysore Pak and Chiroti with Badam milk. You will find most of the local delicacies like idli, dosa, vada, Bisi bele bath, akki roti, Jolada rotti, Kesari bath, Uppittu, pickles, and Ragi mudde. Apart from this, never miss an opportunity to lay your hands-on hot fried banana and jack fruit chips that are available in shops.
Kigga Town
Kigga is a small town that is 10 km away from Sringeri. This is known for its greenery and picturesque landscapes. You can head to Sirimane falls and Saint Rishyashringa temple that is near Kigga.
How To Reach Sringeri
This is possibly one of the most famous pilgrimage centers of Karnataka. Hence, this place is well connected with a lot of frequent buses from all major cities of Karnataka. Be it Bangalore, Mangalore, Chikmagalur, Shimoga, etc, you will find direct buses to Sringeri from here.
Also, read: Murudeshwara Beach Town
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