Durga Parameshwari Temple, Shibaje: History, Significance & Visiting Guide
Durga Parameshwari Temple, Montethadka Shibaje, located in the serene village of Shibaje in Dakshina Kannada district, Karnataka, is a powerful and ancient shrine dedicated to Goddess Durga Parameshwari. Nestled amidst lush greenery and the Western Ghats, this temple is a revered spiritual destination for devotees seeking protection, strength, and divine blessings.
Spiritual Significance of Durga Parameshwari Temple, Shibaje
Goddess Durga Parameshwari is worshipped here as the supreme mother and protector who destroys evil forces and safeguards her devotees. Locals strongly believe that the deity is Jagadambe, who fulfills sincere prayers and offers relief from difficulties, fear, and negative energies.
The temple is especially significant for devotees praying for:
-
Family well-being and prosperity
-
Protection from evil forces
-
Success in education and career
-
Mental peace and courage
History & Legend
According to local belief, the Shibaje Durga Parameshwari Temple Montethadka Shibaje has existed for several centuries and has been a spiritual center for surrounding villages. The deity is believed to be Swayambhu (self-manifested), and the temple has been carefully preserved by local devotees and temple authorities.
The temple reflects traditional coastal Karnataka temple architecture and maintains strong ties to regional rituals and customs.
Main Deity & Other Shrines
-
Presiding Deity: Sri Durga Parameshwari
-
Associated Deities: Ganapathi, Naga Devata, Subramanya (in some traditions)
Daily poojas and special rituals are performed with great devotion following age-old traditions.
Poojas & Sevas at Durga Parameshwari Temple, Shibaje
Some of the important sevas include:
🌺 Kumkumarchana
A special offering to the Goddess for prosperity, marital harmony, and fulfillment of wishes.
🪔 Agalu Payasa
Agalu Payasa Seve- A payasa Prasada Made using Rice, Coconut, Jaggery
🌸 Archana
Personalized prayer done in the devotee’s name.
🐍 Naga Pooja
Performed to seek relief from Naga Dosha and related afflictions.
Check other Near By Temples in Belthangady Taluk/ Near Shibaje
Festivals Celebrated
The temple comes alive during major festivals such as:
-
Navaratri – celebrated with grandeur and special alankaras
-
Durga Ashtami
-
Vijayadashami
-
Annual Temple Festival (Jatre)
During these festivals, special poojas, cultural programs, and community gatherings take place.
Temple Timings
-
Morning: 6:00 AM – 1:30 PM
-
Evening: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
(Timings may vary on festival days)
Shibaje Temple Jathrotsava (Jatra Mahotsava)
Shibaje Temple Jathrotsava, also known as Shibaje Jatra Mahotsava, is the annual grand festival celebrated at Sri Durga Parameshwari Temple, Shibaje, in Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka. This sacred festival is observed every year on February 27 & 28 and either February 29 or March 1, depending on the calendar year.
The Jathrotsava is one of the most important religious and cultural events of the region, attracting thousands of devotees from nearby villages and distant places.
Dates of Shibaje Jatra Mahotsava
-
February 27 & 28
-
February 29 (leap year) or March 1 (non-leap year)
The festival usually spans three days, filled with special poojas, rituals, and traditional celebrations.
Monte Seve
In temples like Durga Parameshwari Temple, Shibaje, Monte holds religious significance:
-
Devotees offer Monte Seve after fulfillment of wishes
-
Monte symbolizes humility, devotion, and gratitude
-
Hanging Monte in temple premises is a form of thanksgiving to the deity
-
It represents devotion connected to rural life and cattle protection
Kumara–Kumarthi at Shibaje Durga Parameshwari Temple
Kumara–Kumarthi Shile is a sacred stone worshipped in many traditional temples of coastal Karnataka, and it holds special spiritual importance at Shibaje Durga Parameshwari Temple. This Shile is deeply connected with an ancient legend involving Sri Durga Parameshwari Devi and a Billava couple, making it a powerful symbol of divine justice, devotion, and transformation.
How to Reach Durga Parameshwari Temple, Shibaje
-
By Road: Well connected by road from Sullia, Puttur, and Mangalore
-
Nearest Railway Station: Mangalore / Subrahmanya Road/ Puttur
-
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport
Local buses and private vehicles are available.
Best Time to Visit
-
October to March – pleasant weather
-
Navaratri period – spiritually vibrant atmosphere
Visitor Guidelines
-
Wear modest traditional attire
-
Maintain temple discipline and silence
-
Photography may be restricted inside sanctum
-
Follow temple authorities’ instructions
Conclusion
Durga Parameshwari Temple, Montethadka, Shibaje is not just a place of worship but a center of divine energy, faith, and tradition. Surrounded by nature and rich spiritual heritage, the temple offers a peaceful environment for prayer and reflection. A visit to this sacred shrine is believed to bring strength, protection, and blessings of the Divine Mother.



