Sri Mahalingeshwara Temple

Is an ancient temple of said to be built in 11-12th Century, lord Shiva is main deity of this temple. In the premises of this temple we find unique pond on the western side. It is said that in olden days Pearls were found to be growing in the Pond.

In the local dialect Muttu means pearls, which brought the name Mutthur to this place later called as as Puttur. During the month of April the Car Festival is Celebrated for 10 days with much gaiety and Fervor. The Town is at its colorful best with the dazzling, light and marvelous display of crackers.

The most common story for the creation of the temple is that in the past, three old and learned Shaiva-cult Brahmins were travelling through southern India, Worshipping a Shiva Linga that they got from the Hindu holy ‘Kshetra of Kashi’. The three were ardent devotees of Shiva. One day they arrived at a place called ‘Gayapada Kshetra’ now known as Uppinangady in Puttur Taluk, Dakshina Kannada.

At Uppinangady, one of the three decided to move towards Puttur leaving behind the other two. He reached Puttur one evening, carrying the ‘Shiva Ling’ with him. He got up early the next morning and after a holy bath went to the palace of the Banga King to collect flowers and other essential pooja materials for the worship of Shiva.

That day was a Monday, which was considered auspicious for the worship of Lord Shiva. At that time the Banga King did not pay attention to the arrival of this Brahmin, as he was much worried about the labor-pain of his loving sister.