The town of Kalasa which lies on the banks of River Bhadra is fondly known as the temple town in Chikmagalur. It has derived its name from Sri Kalaseshwara temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a must visit in Kalasa. Surrounded by lush greenery and western ghats, this town enjoys pleasant weather all-round the year and thus serves as one of the best tourist places in Chikmagalur.
As per the Legend : According to Skanda Purana, Kalasa is considered as Dhakshinakashi. The Wedding of Lord Shiva and Parvathi in Himalayas caused a shift in the Earth's rotation because of the attendance of all Gods and Goddesses. To restore the Earth's balance, Lord Shiva requested Sage Agasthya to travel South. Agasthya however, expressed his wish to witness the wedding. Lord Shiva assured to grant divine vision to the sage, which would enable him to witness the wedding from any part of the world. Agasthya travelled southward and resided in Kalasa from where he watched the wedding. He installed the Linga there. This is the temple now called Kalaseshwara temple. The Linga is enshrined in a silver mandapa. The Devi in this temple is known as Sarvanga Sundari.
Kalasa is also known for the sacred Pancha Theertha, which stands for five sacred waters. They are:
• Vasishta Theertha—This Theertha is special because of the Sage Vasishta
• Naga Theertha—This one is special as it is believed that a dip here will cure Naga Dosha.
• Koti Theertha—Koti Devatha remained here at the request of Sage Agasthya during Girija Kalyana
• Rudra Theertha—It is believed that offering pinda here is as auspicious as offering pinda at Vishnu Pada or Gaya
• Amba Theertha— The sacred water spot of Goddess Parvati
• Duggapan Katte—From this spot, the whole town of Kalasa can be seen.
Tips : A visit to Kalasa can be clubbed with a visit to Horanadu which is popular for Annapoorneshwari temple.
Legends say that a visit to Kalasa pays greater religious importance than a visit to Varanasi. So, have you packed your bags?.
Temple timings: 7.30 am to 1.00 pm & 3.30 pm to 8.30 pm
Distance from Chikmagalur Bus Stand :- 92 kilometers
Distance from Bangalore : 350 kms
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