Brahmavar or Brahmavara situated about 13 kms north of Udupi, is an ancient cultural center of the region. The name Brahmavar means 'a settlement of Brahmins'. The place is famous for its three main temples, the 9th century Mahalinga temple, Gopinatha temple and the Janardhana shrine. The idol of the deity in the Gopinatha temple is a fine example of Hoysala architecture. The town of Brahmavar is sandwiched between Suvarna and Sita rivers. These rivers originate from the Western ghats and form beautiful backwaters around Brahmavar. The rivers which join the Arabian Sea a few kilometers from Brahmavar offers boating facilities to the tourists.