Attraction Guide: Sri Krishna Temple, Udupi, India

Sri Krishna Temple Guide

Sri Krishna Temple: A Glimpse of Divinity Through the Kanakana Kindi Guide

Sri Krishna Temple in Udupi is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. It's not just a place of worship but a vibrant center of culture, tradition, and devotion. What makes this temple unique is the Kanakana Kindi, a small window through which devotees can view the deity. This tradition stems from the story of Kanakadasa, a low-caste devotee who was denied entry but was granted a vision of Lord Krishna when the temple wall miraculously cracked open. The temple's history dates back to the 13th century when the idol of Lord Krishna was installed by the great philosopher Sri Madhvacharya. He founded the eight Mathas (monasteries) that manage the temple's affairs in a rotational system known as the Paryaya. Each Matha gets a two-year term to oversee the temple's rituals, administration, and festivals. This unique system has preserved the temple's traditions and ensured its continued prominence as a spiritual center. Tourists visiting Sri Krishna Temple can witness the daily rituals, including the early morning Kakadarati and the evening Rathotsava (chariot festival). The temple's dining hall serves free meals (prasadam) to thousands of devotees every day. Don't miss the opportunity to peek through the Kanakana Kindi and experience the divine presence of Lord Krishna. Udupi is also famous for its cuisine, particularly the Udupi-style vegetarian dishes like Masala Dosa, Goli Baje, and various sweets. Many restaurants around the temple offer authentic Udupi cuisine.