It is considered auspicious for a pilgrim to first visit Maranakatte before having a darshan of Kollur Mookambika. According to legends, this place got its name from the slaying of demon Mookasura by the Mother Goddess who used the Sri Chakra. However, since Mookasura was a great devotee of the Devi, the Mother Goddess blessed him and granted him the boon that devotees would ceremoniously worship him one month before the rathotsava at Kollur.
The worship of Shri Yakshe and Shri Brihalingeswara (Brahmalingesvara) Devaru, closeby, is essentially Vedic. The Sri Chakra Yantra installed by Adi Shankara is located near the temple. It is believed that Adi Shankara spent a night at this holy place. There are two other temples nearby, dedicated to Sri Haiguli and Sri Huli Devaru.
The Brahma Kunda stream flows north of the temple, enhancing the scenic beauty of forests and hills around. Devotees generally take a dip in the stream before performing rituals. Those who have pledged harake (vow) even walk on the fire as part of the ritual. Pujaris in the temple assist devotees in offering sevas.
The temple is open from 6 am to 1.30 pm and 3 pm to 8.30 pm. The temple fair is held in January during Sankranti. Online seva is also possible. The main prasad at the temples here is vibhuti.
The ancient temple is in typical Dakshina Kannada style, constructed with stone, wood and tiles. A few hours spent at this small and less crowded place is an interesting and spiritual experience. A walk in and around the small village is also exciting.
For all you know, you might even spot wildlife if you are lucky!

How to reach: From Bangalore take NH-4 National Highway up to Nelamangala and then follow NH-48 to Mangalore, on to NH-17 to Kundapur and then deviation to Kollur on SH (590 km). The other not-so-good but nearer route is via Shimoga and Hosanagara to reach Kollur (336 km). KSRTC and private buses ply on both these routes.
Maranakatte is located 21 km west of Kollur, but there are hardly any buses. It's a 2 km deviation from the road to Kollur. The best option is to take a taxi from Kundapur and visit this pilgrim centre before arriving at Kollur. The road is through forests and a bit hilly too. There are no lodges but a few eateries for snacks and shops that sell souvenirs. It's best to avoid the monsoon months of June, July and August, though one can enjoy the 'monsoon magic' during these months in this region.
Postal address: Sri Brahmalingesvara Temple, Maranakatte P.O, Chittoor, Kundapur Taluk, Udupi District, Dakshina Kannada; Ph: (08254) 239231.