Introduction
Renuka Yellamma Temple, perched on a rocky hill called Yellammanna Gudda about 5 km from Saundatti town, is one of North Karnataka’s most important pilgrimage shrines. The goddess—worshipped as Yellamma or Renuka—is revered locally as a fertility and mother goddess and draws large crowds during its seasonal fairs.
History and Origin
The present temple was rebuilt in 1514 by Bomappa Nayaka (Bommappa Nayak of Raibag), but archaeological finds on the hill indicate sacred activity here much earlier — possibly from the Rashtrakuta/Chalukya periods and even earlier megalithic occupation. The site likely hosted a long-standing cult of the mother/goddess long before the current structure.
Architecture & Temple Complex
The temple shows influences of Chalukyan and Rashtrakuta styles melded with later additions; the shrine compound contains several smaller shrines (Ganesh, Mallikarjun, Parashurama, etc.), and a number of sacred tanks and wells (Kumkum Kundam, Yoni Kundam, Arihan Kundam, Jogal Bhavi) used for ritual bathing and believed to have curative powers. The hilltop setting and multi-level courts create a compact pilgrimage circuit.
Religious Significance & Local Customs
Yellamma (Renuka) is identified in local tradition with Renuka, mother of Parashurama, and is treated as a powerful jagadamba (mother of the world) and fertility deity. Devotees perform special rites here—ritual bathing in the kunds, circumambulations, and offerings—seeking blessings for fertility, progeny, health, and protection. A distinctive local custom called “Nimmana” (circumambulation with neem leaves in the mouth) is associated with worship here.
Festivals & Fairs
Major fairs take place between October and February, with several jatras through the season. The largest gathering is associated with the Margashirsha full-moon (usually the biggest annual fair), when the hill and temple complex fill with pilgrims from Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh. These festivals combine religious observance with vibrant local markets and pilgrim services.
Social History Note (Devadasi Tradition)
Historically the temple was tied to the Devadasi institution—girls dedicated to service at Yellamma shrines. That practice underwent social reform and legal prohibition in Karnataka in the late 20th century, and the region’s social history around the temple has been much discussed in scholarship and reportage. Contemporary management and welfare initiatives have sought to address the legacy and provide pilgrim facilities.
Practical Information
How to Reach
- From Belagavi (Belgaum): Saundatti is about 80 km by road; regular buses and taxis connect the two. From Saundatti town the temple hill is a short drive or climb.
Nearest Transport Hubs
- Nearest airport: Belagavi (Belgaum) Airport (road journey thereafter).
- Rail: Nearest major railheads are at Belagavi and Dharwad (road connections available).
Timings & Facilities
- The temple generally opens early morning and closes in the evening; timings can vary during festival periods. The Karnataka government and local trusts provide basic pilgrim amenities—dharmashalas, drinking water points and medical aid during large fairs. For exact daily darshan hours check with local temple authorities before travel.
Where to Stay
Saundatti and nearby towns offer pilgrim lodgings and basic hotels; during major jatras book early or use government dharmashala facilities set up for festival crowds.
Nearby Attractions
- Saundatti town (historic marketplaces and local temples)
- Heritage sites in Belagavi district and the Western Karnataka temple circuit
Tips for Visitors
- Dress modestly for a hill-top temple and be prepared for crowded conditions during fair days.
- Carry drinking water and comfortable footwear for the climb and courtyards.
- If you plan to attend during the Margashirsha full-moon fair or other big jatras, arrive a day early and plan accommodation in advance.
- Respect local customs—offerings, bathing practices in kunds, and the community’s traditions—and seek local guidance before photographing ritual proceedings.