The temple has ancient origins, with references found in the Skanda Purana. According to legend, the serpent king Vasuki and other serpents took refuge at Kukke under the protection of Lord Subramanya after being terrorized by Garuda, the eagle mount of Vishnu. Subramanya vanquished Vasuki's arrogance and granted him and all serpents refuge at this spot, establishing himself as the lord of serpents.
The temple gained prominence under the Vijayanagara Empire and later received patronage from the Keladi Nayakas and the rulers of Mysore. The silver-plated Garuda Kamba (pillar) was installed as a symbolic reminder that even the mighty Garuda cannot approach those under Subramanya's protection.
