Kanipura Sri Gopalakrishna Temple – Kerala’s Krishna Shrine
Kanipura Sri Gopalakrishna Temple at Kumbla is an ancient and most revered temple in the Kasaragod district of Kerala. It holds the prestigious "A" Grade Temple classification and serves as a significant pilgrimage center for Hindus. This sacred temple is also considered as one of the extant Abhimana Kshethrams in the Vaishnavite tradition.
Kanipura Sri Gopalakrishna Temple - Kerala
Speciality
It is said that the divine Krishnashila idol of Lord Bala Gopalakrishna at this temple, featuring child-like characteristics was worshipped by Lord Krishna's foster mother Yashoda. According to religious belief, it was presented to the sage Kanva Maharshi during the Dwaparayuga era by Lord Krishna himself. The sage installed the idol at its current location as per Lord Krishna's instructions, imbuing the temple with the unique feature of "Rishi Prathishte." Consequently, relocating the idol from the temple premises is deemed both impossible and impractical.
According to the Sthala-Purana legend, after installing the idol of Bala Gopalakrishna, the sage performed Abhishekam to the deity using the Manthrodaka saved in his Kamandalu. The Manthrodaka then flowed out as a stream, grew into a river, and eventually joined the western sea not far from the temple. The river, known as "Kumbha Hole" (Hole meaning river), is also referred to as the Kumbhini. Consequently, the town came to be known as Kumbla due to this legend.
It is believed that the sanctity of the Kanipura Sri Gopalakrishna Temple spans over three Yugas: Treta Yuga, Dwapara Yuga, and Kali Yuga. The priests of this temple belong to the Kota Brahmin community.
Entry/Darshan Time
5 AM to 1 PM.
5:30 PM to 8 PM.
Specialty
Sree Gopalakrishna Temple in Kumble features 'Rishi Prathishte' because the idol was installed by Kanva Maharshi as per Lord Krishna's instructions thousands of years ago (during Dwaparayuga). Therefore, it is impossible and impractical to shift the idol from the temple premises.
Dress Code
There is no special dress code for visiting Sree Gopalakrishna Temple, Kumbla. But, it's advisable to dress modestly and respectfully, preferably in traditional attire, while visiting the temple.
Festivals
Annual Utsavam
Best Time to Visit
Throughout the year
How to reach
By Air : Mangalore International Airport is the nearest airport, 47.7 Km away from Sree Gopalakrishna Temple, Kumbla. From the airport, you can avail of public transport or get a cab/ taxi to reach the temple.
By Train :The nearest railway station is Kumbala Railway Station, just 650 m away from Sree Gopalakrishna Temple, Kumbla. From the railway station, one can hire a bus or an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.
By Road :Kumbla Sree Gopalakrishna Temple is easily accessible by road. You can choose private transportation, take a bus, or hire an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.