- Deity
- Subramanya (Murugan) as lord of serpents
- Where
- Subramanya, Western Ghats, Karnataka
- Time to keep
- 1 day
- Best season
- October to March
Why this temple matters
Set among the forests of the Western Ghats, Kukke is one of the most important temples for Sarpa Samskara and Ashlesha Bali, rituals people perform for relief from Sarpa dosha (serpent-related afflictions).
The story
The serpent king Vasuki took refuge here from Garuda and did penance. Subramanya gave him protection and remains here with Vasuki, which is why the temple is sacred for serpent worship.
What to look for
- The Kumaradhara river, where pilgrims bathe before darshan
- The forested setting below Kumara Parvatha
- The Adi Subramanya shrine nearby
Festivals and when to go
- Champa Shashti (November–December)
The practical truth
- Sarpa Samskara takes two days and has specific rules. Tell us early and we will plan it properly.
- Roads through the ghats are slow; allow extra time.
Timings, rules and festival dates change. We confirm the current details for every yatra.
Questions about this temple? Ask us directly.
Start a guided enquiryCombine Kukke Subramanya with
How we take you here
Tell us your dates, your companions and your pace. We shape the yatra and explain every cost before you confirm.
Plan my Kukke Subramanya yatra
