Kollur Mookambika, in the Udupi district of Karnataka, is one of the most loved temples of the Goddess in the south, set at the foot of the Kodachadri hills in the Western Ghats.
The ordinary darshan is free. You book the special darshan, the sevas, and temple rooms on the official Karnataka government temple portal. You book on the government portal, so your money reaches the temple, not a reseller. Many families come here for a child's first lessons, the vidyarambham.
Free and special darshan
- The ordinary darshan is free and open to all.
- For a shorter wait you book a paid special darshan on the government portal.
- On weekends, on Navratri, and in the festival season the crowds are very large, so book ahead and reach early.
[The exact darshan and seva types and prices are shown on the official portal. Last checked 14 September 2026.]
Sevas and rooms you can book officially
On the official portal you can also book:
- Sevas and special poojas performed in your name, such as the abhishekam to the Goddess.
- The vidyarambham, the ceremony for a child's first lessons, for which Kollur is famous.
- Temple accommodation, the guest rooms run by the temple.
You pay on the government portal and keep the confirmation, then present it at the temple.
How to book, step by step
Open the official Karnataka government temple portal, itms.kar.nic.in, and pick Sri Mookambika temple, Kollur, then the darshan, the seva, or the room. Add your details and pay online, then carry the confirmation. Reach the temple in good time, because the queues can be long on festival days. Carry the confirmation and your original identity, because staff check them. Dress modestly, as at any temple.
Common mistakes to avoid
- The biggest trap is booking on a private website that adds a fee. You book only on the official government portal, itms.kar.nic.in. The next is coming at Navratri without a plan, into a heavy crowd. Do not miss the trek or drive to Kodachadri hill nearby, which many pilgrims add. Do not forget to book a room early in the festival season, when they fill fast.
Questions people ask
Is Kollur Mookambika darshan free?
Yes, the ordinary darshan is free. A paid special darshan gives a shorter wait, booked on the government portal.
What is the official Kollur website?
The Karnataka government temple portal, itms.kar.nic.in. Private darshan sites are not the temple.
Can I book the vidyarambham?
Yes, the ceremony for a child's first lessons is booked on the government portal, and Kollur is famous for it.
Can I book a room?
Yes, temple rooms are booked on the government portal.
When is it busiest?
On weekends, at Navratri, and in the festival season.