Moodagallu Keshavanatheshwara Temple

Kesavanatheshwar Cave Temple is a symbol of the wonder of nature is located at Moodagallu in Keradi village of Kundapur taluk in Karnataka.

As the name “Moodagallu” suggests, witnessing the deity Keshavanatheshwara worshipped inside this naturally formed cave is truly a wonder. Devotees visit Lord Shiva by going into the water about 50 feet inside the cave., with various types of fish and snakes moving around freely. Despite this, the priests, who have been wading through the water and offering prayers to the deity for many years, do so without any fear. At first glance, the atmosphere may seem intimidating. However, the priests reassure visitors, saying that these serpents have never caused any harm to anyone.

The cave is filled with darkness, and aside from the light of the deity’s lamp, there is no other source of illumination. Standing in the water while experiencing the touch of fish against one’s feet, along with the darshan (sight) of the deity, is an extraordinary experience.

This cave temple is believed to be extremely ancient, with a legend that says Lord Shiva travelled to Kashi from within this cave. It is also said that many sages and hermits performed penance here, as there are signs of their presence.

In ancient times, a landowner’s field was mysteriously damaged by an unknown creature. To catch this creature, the landowner waited through the night. At one point, he noticed a cow entering the field, so he followed it. The cow entered the nearby cave, and the landowner followed it inside for quite a distance. After a while, the cow disappeared. Trapped in the dark cave and seeing no other way out, the landowner began to pray to God. At that moment, a small light began to shine from outside the cave. Following this light, the landowner found his way out of the cave. Amazed by this divine intervention, the landowner decided to dedicate the field, which had been damaged by the cow, to the deity. This is the belief associated with the place.

Parallel to the cave, there is a Peepal tree platform (Ashwatthakatte), and the priests say that at night, they have witnessed light rays passing directly between the platform and the cave.