Udupi Krishna Temple: Timings, History, Dress Code, Food Timings

Udupi Krishna Temple is one of the major religious sites in India. Situated in the Udupi district of Karnataka, it is one of the seven holy places in the state. Temple's architecture is also stunning. This temple is dedicated to Hindu God Shri Krishna. It is maintained and managed by eight muthas (organisations). Krishna's Idol in this temple is said to be the most beautiful idol of him. Lord Krishna here resides in his balkrishna form (as a small child).

History of the Udupi Krishna Temple 

The temple is constructed in 13th Century by Saint Madhavacharya, who established Dvaita Philosophy. It is said that the Madhavacharya discovered Lord Krishna's idol in Ball of Gopi Chandan (sandalwood paste) and consecrated it in Udupi. 

There is another story of this temple. In 16th century during the rule of Vaadiraja, a person named Kanakadas came to this temple to seek blessings from Krishna but his entry was denied as he was of lower caste. But Kanakadas sat in penance behind the temple and started praying god from there. Pleased by the worship of Kanakadas, God turns to him and gave him darshan through the crack in the wall. From that time the main entrance of the temple is closed and Lord Krishna darshan can be done through Navagraha Kindi (a window with nine holes representing nine planets).

Idol of Krishna

The idol of Shri Krishna in Udupi Krishna Temple is mesmerising sight. The idol is crafted from Black Saligrama Shila. Idol depicts Krishna is small boy form (balkrishna) holding a churning rod and rope symbolising a cheerful nature of him. 

The idol is adorned with intricate decorations, including jewels, flowers, and traditional garments, which vary based on the occasion and festival being celebrated. 

A distinguishing feature of this idol is that it is enshrined facing west, unlike most temple deities that face east. Devotees view the idol through the Kanakana Kindi, a small, intricately carved window, which adds to the temple’s spiritual aura and also marks a symbol of equality and inclusivity. 

Udupi Krishna Temple Timings

Temple Open	4 AM - 9 PM
Mangala Aarti	5:30 AM
Darshan Timings	4 AM - 9 PM
Maha Puja	7:30 PM
Closing Ceremony	8:30 PM

Udupi Krishna Temple Dress Code:

Men - Can wear dhoti or pants. Shirts are optional But no shorts are allowed in the Temple. 

Women - Saree, Suit, Salwar, Long Suits are allowed. Don't wear sleeveless or short clothes. 

Udupi Krishna Pooja

The temple performs a variety of poojas and rituals daily, including:

1. Nirmalya Visarjana Pooja: Conducted early in the morning, this ritual involves removing the decorations from the previous day.

2. Panchamrita Abhisheka: A sacred bath of the idol using five holy ingredients — milk, curd, ghee, honey, and sugar.

3. Alankara Pooja: The idol is beautifully decorated with jewels and flowers.

4. Maha Pooja: The main worship ceremony conducted in the afternoon.

Udupi Krishna Temple Food Timings

The Krishna Udupi Temple is renowned for serving free meals (prasadam) to devotees. The temple kitchen, known as the "Anna Brahma," prepares simple yet delicious vegetarian food. The general food serving timings are as follows:

• Breakfast: 7:00 AM – 8:30 AM

• Lunch: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

• Dinner: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM

These timings may vary slightly during festivals and special occasions. Devotees are encouraged to arrive early to partake in the prasadam.

Festivals

The temple celebrates several grand festivals, including:

• Sri Krishna Janmashtami: Marking the birth of Lord Krishna with elaborate rituals and cultural programs.

• Rathotsava: The chariot festival where the deity is paraded around the temple complex.

• Makara Sankranti: A harvest festival with special offerings and poojas.

Udupi Krishna Temple Prasada Fee

Laddu	INR 50
Panchakajjaya	INR 20
Laddige	INR 20
Gandha Prasada	INR 20
Sampoorna Prasada	INR 120

Restaurant near Udupi Krishna Temple

Mitra Samaj

MTR

How to Reach the Temple

Udupi is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, approximately 60 kilometers away. Udupi Railway Station is just a short drive from the temple, and regular bus services connect the town to major cities in Karnataka.