The Krishna Temple Where You Don't See The Deity Directly: Inside Udupi's Unique Tradition, How To Visit And More

Janmashtami 2026 is just around the corner, and devotees across India are preparing to celebrate the birth of Lord Krishna. There are thousands of temples dedicated to Lord Krishna, but you may not be aware of this unique temple located in Karnataka. We are talking about Udupi Sri Krishna Matha in Karnataka, which was founded by the Vaishnavite saint Madhvacharya in the 13th century.

History behind Udupi Sri Krishna Matha or Temple

Founded by the Vaishnavite saint Madhvacharya in the 13th century, it is largely believed that he found a murti of Lord Krishna in a large ball of Gopichandana, which is a sacred yellowish-brown clay used by devotees to apply a religious mark on the forehead.

The idol was first placed in the east direction and later changed to the west along with other murtis.

What is the unique tradition at Udupi Sri Krishna Matha?

At a temple, devotees can usually directly see the idol of Lord Krishna, but that is not the case at Udupi Sri Krishna Matha. Devotees can have the darshan of Lord Krishna through the inner window, which is called the Navagraha Kindi, and the outer window is called the Kanakana Kindi.

This kindi is also linked to Kanakadasa, a Haridasa saint in early modern India. The deity is worshipped through a silver-plated window, which has nine holes and is called Navagraha Kindi.

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Why Is Lord Krishna Seen Through A Window At Udupi Sri Krishna Matha?

Meanwhile, it is also believed that the direction of the idol of Lord Krishna was moved towards the West because of Kanakadasa. Born Veera Nayaka, an army chieftain, he became devoted to Lord Krishna after losing a war but was not allowed to enter the temple as he was non-Brahmin.

During an earthquake, a crack appeared in the wall, which allowed Kanakadasa to see Lord Krishna. The chief priest of the temple turned that crack into a window because of Kanakadasa's dedication and devotion.  

How to visit the temple?

By Air:

Mangaluru International Airport is the nearest airport to the temple and about 60 kms away.

By road:

Regular bus services and taxis are connected to Udupi from Bengaluru and Mangaluru.

By Train:

Udupi Railway Station is located around 3-4 kms from the temple.

Udupi Sri Krishna Temple Timings

The temple opens at 4:30 AM and closes at 9:30 PM. There is an afternoon break between 1 and 5 PM.
Meanwhile, annaprasada (free meals) is available from 12 to 3 PM for lunch and 7 to 10 PM for dinner.

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Conclusion

Plan your Janmashtami 2026 celebration by visiting the beautiful Udupi Sri Krishna Temple and witness the unique traditions of the temple through your eyes. 

(Image Credits: Wikipedia)

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