Koteshwara

Koteshwara is a historic town located in the Kundapur taluk of Udupi district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is renowned for its religious significance, cultural heritage, and vibrant festivals. This place is known as one of the Seven Mukti Sthalas founded by Sage Parashurama. The other six are Udupi, Kollur, Subrahmanya, Kumbasi, Sankaranarayana and Gokarna). The town also has another historic name as Dhwajapura.

Religious and Cultural Significance The town is home to the ancient Kotilingeshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Legends say that a million wise people came to the place and did penance to Lord Shiva. The Lord showed up before each of them because he was so happy with how much they cared. So, the place became known as Kotee-Ishwara, which later changed to Koteshwara. Locals believe that the present temple was built by Pandavas, no doubt it looks ancient and one of the architectural wonders. But a few shila-shashana (stone-charters) in the area connects the temple to rulers of Basrur.