Identified as a place of religious sanctity, Hiriyadka is a small town 12 km west of
Udupi. This place is famous for the phenomenon of the mass possession of women folk. It has a famous Mahalingeshwara Temple. The word 'Hiriyadka' means the 'big religious place'. There are many myths and legends associated with this place. As per one legend, a saint named Adkattaya who was doing severe penance was being troubled by local children. To avoid their trouble, he placed many spirits around him by his supernatural power. So, the place came to be identified by his name as 'Adkataaya'. Later an adjective 'Hiri' was added meaning the 'big one.' Another name of this place is 'crematory ground for the lords.'
Hiriyadka, close to
Manipal, is accessible from Udupi. The nearest railhead is
Udupi Railway Station.
