Deviramma Temple in Chikmagalur

Deviramma Temple stands as a serene and spiritually enriching destination in Karnataka. Located atop the Chandradrona Hill Range near Chikmagalur, this temple is not only a place of worship but also a trekking paradise for adventure seekers. With an elevation of nearly 5,600 feet, it holds the distinction of being the highest Devi temple in Karnataka.

Dedicated to Goddess Deviramma, a revered form of Shakti, this hilltop shrine blends spirituality with natural beauty, offering panoramic views, untouched trails, and centuries-old traditions. For those seeking a balance of faith, folklore, and breathtaking landscapes, Deviramma Temple is one of the most rewarding destinations in South India.

Location of Deviramma Temple

The temple is situated in the Chandradrona Hill Range of the Western Ghats, approximately 25 km from Chikmagalur town. Locally referred to as Devirammana Betta, it is positioned at an altitude of 5,600 feet above sea level.

This height makes it not just a pilgrimage site but also a vantage point that provides unobstructed 360° views of the lush Chikmagalur coffee estates, misty valleys, and rolling green hills.

Why Visit Deviramma Temple?

Deviramma Temple offers a rare combination of spirituality and adventure. Unlike many commercialized hill temples, this site remains pristine and relatively untouched by mass tourism.

Reasons to Visit

• Spiritual connection in a tranquil setting
• Moderate trek suitable for adventure seekers
• Panoramic views of Chikmagalur’s coffee-scented hills
• Rich folklore and cultural traditions
• Peaceful environment with no heavy commercialization

This unique blend makes it an ideal spot for those who want to escape the crowd and experience a journey that merges faith with natural beauty.

Trekking to Deviramma Temple

The trek to Deviramma Temple is one of the most rewarding experiences for visitors. Beginning from the base village of Doddakere, the trail is approximately 4–5 km uphill and takes around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on pace and weather conditions.

Trekking Overview

Trail Experience

• The initial stretch passes through dense forest where birds, insects, and occasional langurs are common.

• Higher up, the landscape opens to rolling hills with mist and sunlight breaking through clouds.

• The final 1 km is steep and exposed but rewards trekkers with the first glimpse of the temple structure on the peak.

During monsoon, the path becomes slippery, and visibility is often low due to mist, making it more suitable for experienced trekkers.

The Temple and Its Significance

The temple is modest in size, with simple stone architecture and a courtyard that exudes peace. Though it does not host daily rituals, it holds immense cultural and spiritual significance during Deepavali Amavasya, when thousands of devotees climb the hill to seek blessings.

Key Facts about the Temple

• Believed to be over 800 years old.
• Dedicated to Goddess Deviramma, considered a protective deity of the region.
• Farmers often visit before sowing season to seek blessings for a good harvest.
• During Deepavali, special rituals and a Kondotsava (hill fair) are organized with folk performances and religious ceremonies.

Spiritual and Cultural Importance

The locals of Chikmagalur believe Goddess Deviramma is a fierce yet benevolent form of Parvati. Folklore suggests that her presence safeguards the land from natural calamities.

During Deepavali, devotees believe the Goddess “awakens” and blesses those who make the climb. This belief continues to draw thousands of pilgrims every year despite the temple’s remote location.

The annual Kondotsava fair adds to the cultural vibrancy, with traditional rituals, music, and folk dance performances connecting the community with its ancestral traditions.

Best Time to Visit Deviramma Temple

The temple can be visited throughout the year, but certain months provide a more comfortable and enriching experience.

The Deepavali festival is the most spiritually charged time, though it draws large crowds compared to regular months.

Photography Highlights

• Sunrise and mist-filled valleys from mid-trail
• Temple structure against rolling clouds
• Drone photography is possible with local permissions

How to Reach Deviramma Temple

Reaching Deviramma Temple requires traveling first to Doddakere village, the trek’s base point.

Travel Options

Nearby Attractions

Visitors can combine the Deviramma Temple trek with several nearby attractions in Chikmagalur.

• Mullayanagiri Peak – Highest peak in Karnataka.

• Baba Budangiri – Sacred site with caves and spiritual heritage.

• Hirekolale Lake – Beautiful lake ideal for sunset views.

• Jhari Falls (Buttermilk Falls) – A scenic hidden waterfall.

• Coffee Estate Homestays – Authentic Malnad stay experience.

Accommodation Options

There are no lodging facilities near the temple itself. Visitors typically stay in Chikmagalur town or in homestays closer to Mullayanagiri or Attigundi.

Suggested Stays

• The Serai Chikmagalur (Luxury)

• Nature Craft Homestay (Budget)

• Thanmaya Homestay (Traditional Malnad experience)

Legends and Local Beliefs

Deviramma Temple is not just a place of worship but also a part of Chikmagalur’s living folklore. Elders narrate tales of the Goddess protecting the hills and rewarding devotees with blessings of fertility, prosperity, and safety.

Farmers perform rituals offering navadhanya (nine grains) before sowing season, reflecting the temple’s deep bond with agrarian life. These customs preserve the temple’s significance across generations.

Conclusion

Deviramma Temple in Chikmagalur is more than a hilltop shrine; it is a confluence of spirituality, culture, and natural splendor. With its panoramic views, moderate trekking trail, and centuries-old legends, it stands as one of Karnataka’s hidden gems.

For travelers seeking destinations untouched by commercialization, Deviramma Temple offers a soulful experience where divinity meets wilderness. Whether for spiritual devotion, cultural exploration, or adventure trekking, this temple ensures an unforgettable journey above the clouds