Sri Anantheshwara Temple

A massive 8th-century rock-built Shiva temple where Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of Ananthapadmanabha (Anantheshwara). The architecture features massive granite blocks and uniquely curved pillars characteristic of the early coastal Karnataka dynasties. Traditionally known as the place where the great philosopher Sri Madhvacharya taught his disciples. The inner sanctum is illuminated entirely by ghee lamps during deepa-pooja hours — no modern electrical bulbs are used. Hereditary priests preserve centuries-old geometric rangoli patterns and classic ghee-lamp lighting rituals passed down through generations.