Mahalasa Temple, Kumta

Mahalasa Temple, also known as Shri Mahalasa Narayani Temple, was established in 1565 AD on the land donated by the Pai family of Kumta. This temple was constructed by Archaks under the name of Gurav, who is known as the person who carried the bronze statue of Shri Mahalasa all the way from Verna, Goa.

The idol of Shri Mahalasa was brought to this site in an earthen pot and was later sanctified inside the temple. Though Shri Mahalasa Narayani is the presiding deity of the temple, Laxminarayan, Grampurush, Shanteri, Dadshankar, Bhagavati and Kalabhairav are the other gods and goddesses worshipped here.

There are unique artistic wood carvings present on the ceiling of the Sandhya Mantap, along with beautiful red and white wall paintings made using lime and mortar. The wall also has paintings that represent various episodes of the Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Numerous festivals are organised at this temple, namely Shravan Masa. Some of the other festivals are Poornima, Dashami and Vadya Padya, among others. The foundation day of the temple is celebrated during the months of March/April. Tourists while visiting Kumta are suggested to visit Mahalasa Temple, if time allows.