Frequently Asked Questions - Sri Kshetra Nellitheertha

Question: How do we reach Nellitheertha?

We have detailed information on reaching Nellitheertha, by bus or own transport. We also have information on reaching Nellitheertha from Mangalore as well as directly from Bangalore. Please click here

Question: On what days is the temple open?

The temple is open on all days of the week between 7AM to 1PM and from 5PM to 8PM

Question: What are the timings for entering the cave?

The cave is open from 7AM till about 1PM (till the afternoon Pooje of Lord Somanatheshwara is over)

Question: Is the cave open throughout the year?

No, the cave is only open from Tula Sankramana till Mesha Sankramana i.e. from October 17th till April 14th. For exact opening and closure dates, please contact us

Question: Can I find boarding and lodging facilities in Nellitheertha?

We have a small guest house at Nellitheertha which can accomodate upto 10-15 people on a shared accomodation basis. Please enquire before traveling if you are keen on staying at Nellitheertha. Otherwise, you will have to make your own arrangements at Mangalore or Bajpe. But we do have lots of reasonable space at the temple premises itself. Hence, if you are not too keen on "star" category facilities, we will be happy to provide you space at the temple.

Question: Do I have to make own arrangements for food?

The temple provides free food for devotees. Although if you are turning up in huge numbers, it would be good to inform the temple office in advance.

Question: What rules are to be followed to enter the cave?

There are several rules to be followed in order for a devotee to enter the cave. There cannot be compromises on any of these.

Devotees must take bath in the nearby Nagappa Kere (pond) before entering the cave.

Devotees must enter the cave in wet clothes

Men need to remove their shirts and banians before entering the cave.

Women cannot enter the cave during their menstrual cycle.

Devotees should not smoke inside the cave. No general chit-chat nor any offensive/foul language

No harm must be caused to any animals found inside the cave

The cave must be entered only with a temple guide or priest. While inside the cave, devotees must not deviate from the track without the consent of the guide. Getting lost inside the cave can have serious consequences.

Devotees must not carry plastic or any other material inside the cave. No littering inside the cave.

Question: What sevas are available in the temple and cave?

You can perform a Kalashabhisheka inside the cave to Lord Jabaleshwara. You will have to pay a nominal fee at the office for this before entering the cave. Outside the cave, there are various sevas available for Lord Somanatheshwara and Lord Ganapathi. You can perform Sarva seva, Rudrabhisheka, Mahapooje, etc by purchasing tickets at the office counter. The temple also undertakes Yagnas and special Poojes for devotees. Please have a discussion at the temple office for this. Or write to us.

Questions: How do I contact the temple?

The temple address is

Sri Somanatheshwara Cave Temple
Sri Kshetra Nellitheertha
Neerude Post, Kompadavu Village
Mangalore Taluk, South Kanara District
Karnataka, India: 570063

The telephone numbers are 91-824-2299142 and 91-824-2016142

Emailing us is also a good option.