Another fascinating temple that lies in the Dakshin Kanara region is the Kukke Subramanya Temple. Around 100 km from Mangalore, this temple is located in the heart of Western Ghats, surrounded by thick forests, hills and the Kumaradhara River near by. Lord Subramanya is worshiped as protector of snakes or Kukke Subramanya Swamy. Here the idol is that of a serpent God, surrounded by Vasuki, and various serpents. Legend goes that the serpents sought refuge in Subramanya Swami, from Garuda, who had sworn to take revenge on all snakes.
The sanctum sanctorum of Lord Subramanya lies opposite the main entrance, and a Garuda pillar towers in between. As per legend this pillar was erected to shield people from the poisonous fumes emitted by the Serpent King, Vasuki. The idol has Subramanya Swamy surrounded by Vasuki, and the Maha Sesha, lying a little lower.
The temple is famous for it's Sarpa Dosha puja, conducted to ward off any evil influences. The puja takes it's name from the fact, that if a person's ancestors had killed a snake, that sin would affect their family. This puja is meant to absolve the person's sins. This place also has one of the toughest treks in Karnataka. Steep cliffs, thick forest, and thorny bushes make it one of the most daunting prospects.
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