Renuka Temple

Overview

The deity of Goddess Shakti is worshipped at the sacred Renukamba Temple which is located at Chandragutti in Shimoga, Karnataka. This temple is constructed in a cave which looks like a half moon. Goddess Shakti is known as Guthiyamma in the temple.

Legend and Stories

As per the legend, the King of Chandragutti got his daughter Renukamba married Rishi Jamadagni. The King of Chandragutti had worshiped Goddess Mookambika and asked for a daughter. Renukamba was a devoted wife who used to carry water in the pots created of sand. She never dropped even a single drop of water as she used snakes as pads for the pot.

Once upon a time, Sage Jamadagni asked his son Parashurama to kill Renukamba as he doubted her character. Parashurama took his mother to the cave and cut her head. He then left her torso in the cave and took her head to his father. Sage Jamadagni then offered a boon to his son and Parasurama in turn asked for his mother’s life. That is when Renukamba was brought back to life at Chandragutti.

Festivals

A major festival celebration is conducted in the month of March every year.

How to Reach Shimoga

Airport

The Shimoga Domestic Airport is nearest to the temple and it is well connected to all the major cities of India. The Mangalore International Airport is about 195kms away from Shimoga city.

Railways

The Shimoga Railway Station is nearest to the temple and it is almost 106kms away.

Road

Frequent bus service is available from Soraba which is about 17kms away and from Siddhapura which is 16kms away from the temple.

Temple Address

Shree Renukamba Temple,
Chandragutti, Chandragutti Post,
Soraba Taluk,
Shimoga District, Pincode – 577429