The Polali Rajarajeshwari Temple is a Hindu temple located in Dakshina Kannada district, Karnataka, around 14 kilometers off BC Road on the Mangalore-Sakleshpura highway. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Rajarajeshwari, a form of Lalita Tripurasundari.
The temple is believed to have been built in the 8th century AD by King Suratha. The main idol of the temple, Sri Rajarajeshwari, is unlike any other. It is a ten-foot tall clay idol, said to be the tallest clay idol in all of India, and is believed to be up to 5000 years old! The clay is said to have special medicinal properties .
The temple itself is a beautiful example of Hindu architecture, with roofs adorned with wooden carvings of gods and copper plates. There is a river called Phalguni that flows around the temple, adding to the serenity of the place.
Here are some additional details that you might find helpful when planning your visit to the Polali Rajarajeshwari Temple:
- There is no entry fee to enter the temple.
- Temple timings are generally from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. However, it is recommended to call ahead to confirm the timings as they may vary on occassions. There is no phone number listed for the temple online, but you might be able to find one on a travel website.
- The annual festival of the temple is a seven-day celebration held in February or March.
Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting the temple:
- Dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders and knees.
- Remove your shoes before entering the temple sanctum.
- Photography is not allowed inside the temple sanctum. There is no official website for the temple, but you might be able to find more information about photography restrictions online.
Overall, the Polali Rajarajeshwari Temple is a beautiful and historic place that is worth visiting if you are in the Mangalore area. The unique clay idol and the serene atmosphere of the temple make it a truly special place.