Located in the serene village of Kambalipura near Hoskote (about 35 km from Bangalore), the ancient Kateramma Temple is one of Karnataka’s most powerful Shakti shrines. Dedicated to Goddess Kateramma (a fierce form of Durga), this 500-year-old temple attracts devotees seeking protection, health blessings, and relief from black magic. The temple is renowned for its annual fire-walking festival (Karaga) and powerful spiritual vibrations.
✔ Detailed daily & festival timings
✔ Historical significance & temple architecture
✔ Daily rituals & special poojas
✔ Major festivals in 2025 calendar
✔ Complete travel guide
✔ Comprehensive FAQ section (25+ questions)
Kateramma Temple Timings 2025
Regular Daily Schedule
| Time | Ritual |
|---|---|
| 6:00 AM | Temple Opening |
| 6:15 AM – 7:00 AM | Morning Abhishekam |
| 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Morning Darshan |
| 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Temple Closure |
| 4:00 PM | Temple Reopening |
| 4:30 PM – 5:00 PM | Evening Abhishekam |
| 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM | Evening Darshan |
| 8:30 PM | Temple Closing |
Special Days Schedule
- Fridays: Extended hours till 9:30 PM
- Amavasya (New Moon Days): Special midnight pooja at 12:00 AM
- Navaratri: 24-hour darshan on Maha Navami
Historical Significance & Temple Features
Sacred Legends
- Believed established by Chola warriors in 16th century
- Goddess appeared to protect villagers from plague epidemic
- Fire-walking tradition started after miraculous healing
Architectural Highlights
- Dravidian-style gopuram with intricate carvings
- Main sanctum with 4-foot tall Kateramma idol
- Sacred pond for ritual baths (Theertha Snana)
- Special shrine for Rahu-Ketu
Unique Features
- Only temple where fire-walking is annual ritual
- Natural springs beneath sanctum
- Village oracle gives divine messages on Fridays
Daily Rituals & Pooja Schedule
| Time | Ritual | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 6:15 AM | Abhishekam | Milk, turmeric bath |
| 7:30 AM | Kumkuma Archana | Red powder worship |
| 12:30 PM | Maha Naivedyam | Main food offering |
| 4:30 PM | Evening Abhishekam | Coconut water bath |
| 7:00 PM | Deeparadhana | Evening lamps |
| 8:15 PM | Raksha Kavacha | Protective chantings |
Special Poojas:
- Sarpa Dosha Pooja: For snake planet relief (₹501)
- Durga Homam: Fridays at 6:00 PM (₹751)
- Black Thread Ritual: For protection (₹101)
Major Festivals 2025
| Festival | Date | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Karaga Festival | Apr 12-15 | Fire-walking, all-night vigil |
| Navaratri | Oct 3-12 | 9-day celebrations, Kumari Pooja |
| Amavasya Days | Monthly | Special Rahu-Ketu rituals |
| Kateramma Jayanti | May 18 | Golden chariot procession |
| Deepavali | Oct 31 | 1008 oil lamp lighting |
Travel Guide
How to Reach
- By Road: 35km from Bangalore (1.5hr drive)
- Public Transport: KSRTC buses from KR Puram/Hoskote
- Nearest Railway: Hoskote (15km)
Parking Facilities
- Free parking available near temple
- Special area for buses/vans
Nearby Attractions
- Nandi Hills (25km)
- Hoskote Lake (10km)
- Shiva Temple, Devanahalli (30km)
Accommodation Options
- Temple Dharamshala: ₹300/day (basic)
- Mid-range Hotels: ₹1500-3000 (Hoskote)
- Luxury Stays: ₹5000+ (Bangalore)
Detailed FAQ Section (25+ Questions)
Q1: What are today’s temple timings?
A: 6:00 AM-1:00 PM & 4:00 PM-8:30 PM (regular days)
Q2: Is photography allowed inside?
A: Only in outer areas (not in sanctum)
Q3: What is special about Friday worship?
A: Special oracle consultations after 6:00 PM
Q4: Are there facilities for senior citizens?
A: Yes, seating area and priority darshan
Q5: What is the dress code?
A: Traditional wear preferred (women – sarees recommended)
Q6: How much time needed for darshan?
A: 1-2 hours (longer during festivals)
Q7: Is there online booking for poojas?
A: No, book directly at temple office
Q8: Best time to avoid crowds?
A: Weekday mornings (7:00-9:00 AM)
Q9: Are mobile phones allowed?
A: Yes, but silent mode inside
Q10: Why is fire-walking performed?
A: Ancient vow to goddess for protection
Q11: Is there wheelchair access?
A: Partial access (up to main hall)
Q12: What are prasadam timings?
A: 1:00 PM & 7:30 PM daily
Q13: Can non-Hindus visit?
A: Yes, all are welcome
Q14: Is there medical facility?
A: Basic first aid at temple office
Q15: What makes this idol special?
A: Self-manifested with growing hair
Q16: Are guides available?
A: Temple volunteers provide free guidance
Q17: What is parking fee?
A: Free for all vehicles
Q18: Can we perform personal abhishekam?
A: Yes (₹251 minimum offering)
Q19: Is night stay allowed?
A: Only during festivals with permission
Q20: What is significance of pond?
A: Healing properties for skin diseases
Q21: Nearby eating options?
A: Temple canteen serves meals (₹30)
Q22: Special rituals for Rahu-Ketu?
A: Saturday black sesame offerings
Q23: Nearest airport?
A: Bangalore (40km)
Q24: What is oracle consultation fee?
A: Voluntary donation (₹50-500)
Q25: Best festival to visit?
A: Karaga Festival (April 12-15, 2025)
Conclusion
The Kateramma Temple at Kambalipura offers a unique blend of ancient traditions, powerful spiritual energy, and miraculous healing experiences. With its self-manifested goddess idol, sacred pond, and annual fire-walking ritual, it stands as a testament to Karnataka’s living folk traditions. The detailed 2025 timings and festival information provided in this guide will help pilgrims plan their visit for optimal spiritual benefits. Whether you seek divine protection, wish to witness extraordinary rituals, or simply want to experience rural Karnataka’s spiritual heritage, Kateramma Temple promises profound blessings. May the Goddess shower all devotees with health and happiness!