Kukke Subramanya is on the bank of river Dhara. According to Hindu Mythology Lord Kumaraswamy came to this place after killing the demon rulers Taraka, Shoorapadmasura and others in a war; and Lord washed his Shakti Ayudha (a battle-axe in the shape of a bayonet) in this river. From this onwards the river is famous as Kumaradhara. After his battle with the demons Lord Kumaraswamy came to the top of Kumara Parvatha along with his brothers Lord Ganesha, Veerabahu and other aides. He was received by Lord Indra along with other Gods; pleased by the success of the war Indra prayed the Lord to be kind enough to marry his daughter Devasena. This was agreed upon courteously and the marriage took place on the banks of Kumaradhara on 'Margashira Shudda Shashti'. Lord Kumaraswamy also gave darshan to Vasuki the head of nagas, who was making a penance here. Vasuki prayed to the Lord to stay along with him permanently at this place and the Lord with the boon. 

From that time it is believed that the Lord has made his spiritual presence in this shrine along with his wife Devasena and Vasuki. Every year a famous car festival is being held here on 'Margashira Shuddha Shashti' with special poojas to the Lord.

Adi Subramanya 
At about a furlong from the main temple there is the temple of Adi Subramanya. There is a great Valmiki (ant-hill) in Sanctuary. This is open from 6 am to 6 p.m. There is a Sanaghatta also. 

Kashikatte
This is about three furlong from the temple on the main entrance to the Kshetra. Anjaneya and Vigneshwara shrines are installed in this place. 

Biladwara
A cave at about four furlong from the temple by the side of the main road. According to Hindu mythology during the olden days Vasuki, the serpent God, was taking shelter and protection from Garuda in this cave and was making penance. The cave is about 10 meters in length. There is an entrance and an exit. One can go into the cave by leaving his chappals outside it. 

Mathsya Thirtha 
A Ghat where pilgrims can take bath in the river Kumaradhara. 

Panchami Thirtha 
Another Ghat on the banks of Kumaradhara. There is one Somanatha temple and the Brindavanas of Swamiji's of Subramanya Mutt are found here. 

Kumaraparvatha 
One of the highest peaks in the western Ghats. Its height is about 4,000 feet from the sea level. For those who are in mountaineering this is a beautiful spot to visit. Guides are available to take the interested devotees up to the hills. 

Sri Subramanya Mutt 
On the south east part of the temple there is a Dwaita Mutt following the Madhava philosophy. 

Vedavyasa Samputa Narasimha Devaru  
This temple is situated on the south east part of the inner quadrangle of the main temple. It is managed by the Sri Subramanya Mutt. 

Vanadurga Devi Temple 
A temple managed by the Sri Subramanya Mutt, it is situated at about 1 km from the main temple by the side of the road. 

Mangalore 
About 36 Kms from Udupi, Mangalore the city of Narrow winding streets, lofty coconut trees, quaint gable-roofed houses, beautiful beaches, temples and churches, the heady fragrance of the Mangalore Mallige, the aroma of spicy coconut curries… Yes! Mangalore is indeed a city of vivid contrasts. Unfolding an enchantment that never ends… 

Dharmasthala 
About 40 Kms from Mangalore, this place has the famous temple of Lord Manjunatha. An outstanding example of religious and cultural tolerance where charity is a way of life, extended to all without discrimination. Lord Manjunatha temple is a famous pilgrim center. Sri Dharmasthala which is one of the sacred places in South India is well known to all pious people. It is situated in the village of Dharmasthala, in Beltangady Taluk of South Canara district. 

Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore(120 Kms). 

Rail: The nearest railhead is Dharmasthala (72 Kms). 

Road: The state transport buses ply to Kukke Subramanya from various major cities & towns like Dharmasthala, Hassan, Bangalore, & Mangalore.